Enjoying nature and recreation; information on entering the great outdoors

The use of private paths and other areas in the great outdoors may be restricted.

According to the Bavarian Constitution and the Bavarian Nature Conservation Act, anyone may in principle enter all parts of the great outdoors free of charge for the enjoyment of natural beauty and for recreation without official permission and without the consent of the landowner or other authorized person. However, this right of access does not apply to all forms of recreation and sporting activities; in particular, it is subject to official and legal restrictions (e.g. trail bans, restrictions for cyclists or horse riders).

Restrictions on outdoor recreation by the lower or higher nature conservation authorities are possible by statutory order or individual order for reasons of nature conservation or to regulate recreational traffic.
There are also restrictive regulations in protected area ordinances. In individual cases, the owner of the land can also restrict or deny the use of private paths and other areas in the open countryside if there are legitimate interests on the part of the owner.

Further information on any restrictions can be obtained from the relevant district administrative authority (lower nature conservation authority).

In addition to a general overview of rights and obligations for various leisure activities, you will find tips on correct behavior as well as links and information in the Internet guide Leisure and Nature from the Bavarian State Ministry of the Environment and Consumer Protection (see "Further links").