Historical Salt Train Weiler-Simmerberg

Salt Train Weiler-Simmerberg — when salt was "white gold"

In the Middle Ages, salt was far more than a seasoning: it was a preservative, a basis for taxation, and a driving force for regional prosperity. Caravans traveled from the salt pans around Bad Reichenhall and Salzburg across the Alpine ridge to the Allgäu — where the Wittelsbacher territories levied tolls, stationed salt factors, and entire market towns thrived on the salt trade. The Historical Salt Train reenacts precisely this history once a year.

Weiler-Simmerberg in the Lindau (Bodensee) district

The market town of Weiler-Simmerberg is located in the West Allgäu, in the Lindau (Bodensee) district, in the state of Bavaria. With its districts Weiler, Simmerberg, and Ellhofen, it lies at an altitude of around 600–700 meters and boasts a long history as a salt factor town: here, the salt caravans were handed over by their Bavarian drivers to Swiss merchants, the valuable goods were reloaded, and the town owes its historical appearance to this trade.

The Route — Immenstadt to Simmerberg in one day

The Salt Train follows the historical day's stage from salt factor town to salt factor town:

• 09:00 — Departure from Immenstadt market square (Allgäu) with a ceremonial tribute for the 666th anniversary of market rights
• 12:15 — Arrival in Thalkirchdorf, "Rödlerfest" as a midday stop
• 15:00 — Passage through Oberstaufen
• 15:45 — Blessing in Genhofen before the ascent to Hahnschenkel
• 17:00 — Entry into Simmerberg, Salt Factor handover ceremony on the village square

What distinguishes the Salt Train

Unlike a pure parade, the Historical Salt Train is a journey in motion: the train actually traverses the historical route over several hours, with real wagons (carrying salt, beer, and wine barrels), heavy horse-drawn carriages, and costumed companions. At the stops, travelers are welcomed, catered for, and greeted with music.

The Salt Festival in Simmerberg

From 2 PM onwards, an extensive supporting program begins in Simmerberg: the Ellhofen and Simmerberg music bands play, local associations serve regional food, and a medieval market showcases traditional crafts. After the train's arrival at 5 PM, there will be a ceremonial handover to the salt factor, followed by the Salt Festival with dancing and a concert in the evening.