Sonthofen, District capital in Oberallgäu, Germany

Sonthofen is a district capital in Oberallgäu, Germany, sitting at 746 meters (2,448 feet) elevation where the Bavarian Alps rise around it. The town center spreads across a valley floor with residential streets branching toward the surrounding peaks that frame the skyline.

The settlement gained market rights in 1429 and grew as a trading point between Alpine valleys. In 1803 the town passed to Bavaria after the Prince-Bishopric of Augsburg lost control over the region.

Local shops line the main streets with goods from nearby farms and craft workshops that families have run for decades. Market days bring together farmers from surrounding valleys who sell cheese, honey, and vegetables while neighbors stop to chat over coffee.

Walking trails start from the edge of town and lead directly into surrounding mountains, accessible via paved roads that run through residential areas. The central ecological park with pond and lime trees offers a quiet starting point for walks around the town center.

The town holds the title of Germany's southernmost district capital, though not the country's southernmost settlement overall. The market town of Oberstdorf lies about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) farther south and reaches closer to the Austrian border.

• Location: Oberallgäu
• Capital city: Sonthofen
• Elevation above the sea: 746 m
• Shares border with: Oberstdorf, Blaichach, Ofterschwang, Bad Hindelang, Wertach, Burgberg im Allgäu, Fischen im Allgäu
• Phone: [phone]
• Website: https://stadt-sonthofen.de
• GPS coordinates: 47.51417,10.28167
• Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:42