Von Herrlingen kurz vor Weidach links rein, Blaustein-Weidach
Von Herrlingen kurz vor Weidach links rein, 89134 Blaustein, Germany
NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest | Opening Hours & Photos
The NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest in Blaustein-Weidach is a classic Naturfreunde house with a clear focus on hiking, dining, overnight stays, and shared experiences in nature. It is located on the southern slope of the Swabian Jura, at about 610 meters above sea level, between juniper heath and beech forest, with a view of the nature reserve Kleines Lautertal. This location makes the place particularly attractive for day visitors, families, hiking groups, and nature lovers: the house is close enough to Ulm and Blaubeuren for an uncomplicated trip, yet far enough away to be perceived as a true retreat in the landscape. The city of Blaustein describes Weidach as a district on a plateau between Kiesen and Lautertal; the Spatzennest is a prominent meeting point for hikers. The house directory also lists overnight accommodations, a partially managed orientation with drinks, and the possibility to spend relaxed time outdoors and indoors. For visitors searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Blaustein", "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Weidach", "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Ulm", or "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Opening Hours", the Spatzennest is therefore primarily a practical and nature-oriented point of contact with a strong family and excursion character. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Opening Hours and Catering at Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
Those wishing to visit the Spatzennest should be aware of the seasonal opening hours, as the house is not a year-round continuously managed operation, but follows the typical rhythm of a Naturfreunde house. According to the official house directory, the Spatzennest is open from early March to late November. During this time, it is open on Sundays and public holidays from 12 to 18 o'clock. From Pentecost until the summer holidays, it is additionally open on Saturdays from 12 to 18 o'clock, and during the Baden-Württemberg summer holidays, the house is accessible every day from 12 to 18 o'clock. The Ulm house page confirms this seasonal character and adds that volunteer house service offers snacks, coffee, cake, and drinks on Sundays and public holidays. In practice, this means: the Spatzennest is deliberately designed for calm, reliable, and community-organized catering, not for a hectic continuous operation. This fits perfectly with the atmosphere of the house and the location on the edge of the Kleines Lautertal nature reserve. Therefore, those searching for "opening hours" will not find an anonymous gastro opening here, but a clearly seasonal nature experience with honest, simple provisions. The Ulm page also mentions regional and ecological ingredients, such as cider from traditional apple orchards, organic cheese, and meat and sausage from the region. Additionally, fair-trade organic coffee, tea, and chocolate are offered. This creates a coherent picture: the Spatzennest aims not only to be a destination for eating and drinking but also a place with a conscious, decelerated character. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Directions to Blaustein-Weidach: Location, Car, and Bus
The location of the NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest is particularly interesting for day-trippers because it is close to nature yet relatively easy to reach. The official directions describe two clear routes by car: via the A8, exit Ulm-West, then via Dornstadt-Bollingen-Weidach, or from Ulm via the B28 to Herrlingen and then towards Weidach/Bermaringen. For guests without a car, there are also arrangements: according to the house page, the Ulm-Freiburg train line goes to Herrlingen, and from there, bus line 37 connects Ulm via Herrlingen to Weidach, with the nearest stop about 600 meters away. This combination makes the house particularly practical for hikers, families, and groups who want to combine their outing with a small tour. The city of Blaustein and the tourism page also describe Weidach and the surrounding area as a scenic area on the edge of the Kleines Lautertal, with well-utilized paths and excursion destinations. Although no specific parking count is mentioned on the officially cited pages, the journey via the classic Alb and Lautertal route is described in such a way that the visit can be planned easily. Therefore, those searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Directions" will find not only an address here but also clear orientation towards the Alb plateau, Herrlingen, and the small natural area around Weidach. For SEO intent, it is important: the Spatzennest is not located in the middle of the city, but deliberately on the edge of a quiet landscape, and this shapes the journey, arrival, and experience on-site. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Overnight Stays, Beds, and Room Offers at Spatzennest
The NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest is not only a dining destination but also a small overnight house with solid facilities for groups and individual guests. The official house directory lists 33 beds in various room sizes: two double rooms with running cold and hot water, one quadruple room with running cold and hot water, two six-bed rooms with running cold and hot water, and one larger 13-bed room without running cold and hot water. The Ulm house page formulates the scope a bit differently and mentions 30 beds in double and multi-bed rooms. For practical purposes, one thing is especially important: the Spatzennest remains a manageable, personal house with a limited number of beds, not a large hotel complex. Additionally, there are two wash and shower rooms with three sinks and two showers each, as well as a self-catering kitchen. Overnight stays are possible from 15.00 Euros for a simple overnight stay; the complete price list is provided upon request. Therefore, those searching for "overnight stays", "beds", or "room offers" will get an image of a house that is oriented towards simple, functional, and nature-connected use. Particularly noteworthy are the two common rooms for up to 50 people. This makes the Spatzennest attractive for seminars, group trips, club weekends, or family gatherings, where shared time, self-catering, and outdoor activities are the focus. The Ulm page explicitly mentions individual hikers, families, groups, clubs, and school classes as guest groups. This openness makes the house versatile without losing its simple character. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Room Offers, Self-Catering Kitchen, and Groups in Everyday Life
The Spatzennest is clearly structured for communal use. The official house description mentions two common rooms for 50 people, a partially managed supply of drinks, and a self-catering kitchen. This clearly indicates why the house has been used for seminars, group meetings, and practical nature experiences for many years: people can eat together, organize themselves, retreat, and at the same time intensively involve the outdoor area. The Ulm house page describes a catering offer with regional and ecological ingredients, such as cider from traditional apple orchards, organic cheese, as well as sausage and meat from the region. Fair-trade organic coffee, tea, and chocolate are also offered. This is relevant for guests looking for a simple yet conscious dining place. The combination of a self-catering kitchen and partially managed supply is particularly practical for groups that do not want to experience every meal rhythm as externally determined. This is also ideal for school classes and clubs, as daily routines can remain flexible. The official descriptions also make it clear that the Spatzennest is suitable for family celebrations. The Ulm page explicitly states that family celebrations can be held there, and NaturFreunde Deutschland describes the house as family- and child-friendly in both indoor and outdoor facilities. This mix makes the Spatzennest a place where not only consumption occurs, but where community is created. Those searching for a location that is neither sterile nor over-staged will find here a place that combines nature-connected simplicity with functional group rooms. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Photos, Outdoor Area, and Family Friendliness at the House
For many inquiries about the Spatzennest, the focus is not primarily on gastronomy, but on the impression from the outside: What does the house look like, how does the area appear, and is it suitable for children? This is where the location scores particularly well. The official house directory shows a photo gallery of the Naturfreundehaus, and the Ulm page describes the house as a destination for hiking, cycling, and dining on the edge of the Kleines Lautertal nature reserve. Additionally, the house directory mentions a sunbathing lawn, a children's playground, a play area, a barbecue area, and table tennis tables. The Ulm reporting adds a generous outdoor area with many play opportunities and a small children's playground located directly at the house. This also fits excellently with the reviews and usage reports from practice: the Spatzennest is not a slick event location, but a place with a real outdoor focus, where children can move and adults can find peace, view, and community. The tourism page of the city of Blaustein explicitly names the Spatzennest as a resting point for hikers and cyclists; according to the city, the outdoor area and playground invite you to linger with friends and family. Therefore, those searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Photos" actually want to see this atmosphere: a house embedded in the landscape, with space for picnics, games, group time, and short breaks. The photos and descriptions together convey the impression of a very down-to-earth nature place. This is precisely what gives it its charm: not spectacular in the sense of being large and loud, but sympathetic, open, and lively in the sense of being simply usable. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
History of the Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
The history of the Spatzennest is a strong argument for its significance in the region. An article by NaturFreunde Deutschland tells that Ulm Naturfreunde developed the desire for their own hiking home after World War I and chose a rock outcrop in the current nature reserve Lautertal near Weidach as the site. Construction began on May 10, 1924, with a lot of self-help and volunteer work: men dug the building site, and women fetched masonry stones from a quarry. On June 5, 1927, the house was finally inaugurated with a large parade from Herrlingen station to the new Naturfreundehaus; around 2,500 Naturfreunde and guests were present. Even then, the house stood for community, nature experience, and political as well as social self-organization. The article also describes that the building at that time contained mass accommodations, common rooms, a kitchen, and sleeping quarters, and the house offered overnight accommodations for about 100 people. Today, the house is smaller and more manageable, but the idea behind it remains the same: a Naturfreunde house supported by volunteer work and solidarity. The article emphasizes that around 80 Naturfreunde volunteer to provide catering, overnight stays, biotope care, and renovations. This continuity is remarkable because it shows that the Spatzennest is not just a pretty place in the green, but a living piece of club and cultural history. Those searching for the history of the Spatzennest will find here a narrative of manual labor, perseverance, community spirit, and closeness to the landscape. This is precisely why the house has a special aura to this day: it does not seem constructed to impress, but has grown to be used. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/idealisten-mit-handwagen-pickeln-und-schaufeln))
Hiking, Excursions, and Nature Experience Around the Spatzennest
The actual strength of the NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest lies in the fact that it is more than just a destination. It is a starting point, a pause, a meeting point, and a viewpoint at the same time. The house directory lists hiking trails and cycling paths in the immediate vicinity, each about one kilometer away, as well as long-distance hiking trails, long-distance cycling paths, a swimming pool ten kilometers away, an indoor pool four kilometers away, and a climbing hall about twenty kilometers away. The city of Blaustein highlights the Spatzennest as a hiking and excursion destination on the edge of the nature reserve, and the tourism page recommends the surroundings for nature-oriented family time, routes through the biotopes of the Swabian Jura, and views over the landscape. This fits very well with the character of the house: those coming here usually combine dining with movement. For hiking groups, the location on the Alb plateau is ideal, for families, the playground and outdoor area are attractive, and for groups with overnight stays, the combination of self-catering kitchen, common rooms, and nature is immediately usable. Particularly important is the view of the small Lautertal. It not only provides a beautiful backdrop for the house but also makes the pause thematically coherent: here, one experiences the landscape not as decoration but as the core of the stay. In the official texts, the house is also described as well-suited for individual hikers, families, clubs, school classes, and groups. Therefore, those searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Weidach" or "Naturfreunde spatzennest" are usually looking for this mix of movement, dining, simplicity, and natural surroundings. The Spatzennest consistently meets this desire: not with luxury, but with location, community, and a clear, honest focus on nature experience. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Sources:
- NaturFreunde Deutschland - Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
- NaturFreunde Ulm - Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
- City of Blaustein - Information about Weidach
- NaturFreunde Deutschland - Idealists with Handcarts, Picks, and Shovels
- NaturFreunde Ulm - Opening Hours Spatzennest
- Ulm News - The NaturFreunde House Spatzennest is open daily until mid-September
- City of Blaustein - Hiking
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NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest | Opening Hours & Photos
The NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest in Blaustein-Weidach is a classic Naturfreunde house with a clear focus on hiking, dining, overnight stays, and shared experiences in nature. It is located on the southern slope of the Swabian Jura, at about 610 meters above sea level, between juniper heath and beech forest, with a view of the nature reserve Kleines Lautertal. This location makes the place particularly attractive for day visitors, families, hiking groups, and nature lovers: the house is close enough to Ulm and Blaubeuren for an uncomplicated trip, yet far enough away to be perceived as a true retreat in the landscape. The city of Blaustein describes Weidach as a district on a plateau between Kiesen and Lautertal; the Spatzennest is a prominent meeting point for hikers. The house directory also lists overnight accommodations, a partially managed orientation with drinks, and the possibility to spend relaxed time outdoors and indoors. For visitors searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Blaustein", "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Weidach", "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Ulm", or "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Opening Hours", the Spatzennest is therefore primarily a practical and nature-oriented point of contact with a strong family and excursion character. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Opening Hours and Catering at Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
Those wishing to visit the Spatzennest should be aware of the seasonal opening hours, as the house is not a year-round continuously managed operation, but follows the typical rhythm of a Naturfreunde house. According to the official house directory, the Spatzennest is open from early March to late November. During this time, it is open on Sundays and public holidays from 12 to 18 o'clock. From Pentecost until the summer holidays, it is additionally open on Saturdays from 12 to 18 o'clock, and during the Baden-Württemberg summer holidays, the house is accessible every day from 12 to 18 o'clock. The Ulm house page confirms this seasonal character and adds that volunteer house service offers snacks, coffee, cake, and drinks on Sundays and public holidays. In practice, this means: the Spatzennest is deliberately designed for calm, reliable, and community-organized catering, not for a hectic continuous operation. This fits perfectly with the atmosphere of the house and the location on the edge of the Kleines Lautertal nature reserve. Therefore, those searching for "opening hours" will not find an anonymous gastro opening here, but a clearly seasonal nature experience with honest, simple provisions. The Ulm page also mentions regional and ecological ingredients, such as cider from traditional apple orchards, organic cheese, and meat and sausage from the region. Additionally, fair-trade organic coffee, tea, and chocolate are offered. This creates a coherent picture: the Spatzennest aims not only to be a destination for eating and drinking but also a place with a conscious, decelerated character. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Directions to Blaustein-Weidach: Location, Car, and Bus
The location of the NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest is particularly interesting for day-trippers because it is close to nature yet relatively easy to reach. The official directions describe two clear routes by car: via the A8, exit Ulm-West, then via Dornstadt-Bollingen-Weidach, or from Ulm via the B28 to Herrlingen and then towards Weidach/Bermaringen. For guests without a car, there are also arrangements: according to the house page, the Ulm-Freiburg train line goes to Herrlingen, and from there, bus line 37 connects Ulm via Herrlingen to Weidach, with the nearest stop about 600 meters away. This combination makes the house particularly practical for hikers, families, and groups who want to combine their outing with a small tour. The city of Blaustein and the tourism page also describe Weidach and the surrounding area as a scenic area on the edge of the Kleines Lautertal, with well-utilized paths and excursion destinations. Although no specific parking count is mentioned on the officially cited pages, the journey via the classic Alb and Lautertal route is described in such a way that the visit can be planned easily. Therefore, those searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Directions" will find not only an address here but also clear orientation towards the Alb plateau, Herrlingen, and the small natural area around Weidach. For SEO intent, it is important: the Spatzennest is not located in the middle of the city, but deliberately on the edge of a quiet landscape, and this shapes the journey, arrival, and experience on-site. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Overnight Stays, Beds, and Room Offers at Spatzennest
The NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest is not only a dining destination but also a small overnight house with solid facilities for groups and individual guests. The official house directory lists 33 beds in various room sizes: two double rooms with running cold and hot water, one quadruple room with running cold and hot water, two six-bed rooms with running cold and hot water, and one larger 13-bed room without running cold and hot water. The Ulm house page formulates the scope a bit differently and mentions 30 beds in double and multi-bed rooms. For practical purposes, one thing is especially important: the Spatzennest remains a manageable, personal house with a limited number of beds, not a large hotel complex. Additionally, there are two wash and shower rooms with three sinks and two showers each, as well as a self-catering kitchen. Overnight stays are possible from 15.00 Euros for a simple overnight stay; the complete price list is provided upon request. Therefore, those searching for "overnight stays", "beds", or "room offers" will get an image of a house that is oriented towards simple, functional, and nature-connected use. Particularly noteworthy are the two common rooms for up to 50 people. This makes the Spatzennest attractive for seminars, group trips, club weekends, or family gatherings, where shared time, self-catering, and outdoor activities are the focus. The Ulm page explicitly mentions individual hikers, families, groups, clubs, and school classes as guest groups. This openness makes the house versatile without losing its simple character. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Room Offers, Self-Catering Kitchen, and Groups in Everyday Life
The Spatzennest is clearly structured for communal use. The official house description mentions two common rooms for 50 people, a partially managed supply of drinks, and a self-catering kitchen. This clearly indicates why the house has been used for seminars, group meetings, and practical nature experiences for many years: people can eat together, organize themselves, retreat, and at the same time intensively involve the outdoor area. The Ulm house page describes a catering offer with regional and ecological ingredients, such as cider from traditional apple orchards, organic cheese, as well as sausage and meat from the region. Fair-trade organic coffee, tea, and chocolate are also offered. This is relevant for guests looking for a simple yet conscious dining place. The combination of a self-catering kitchen and partially managed supply is particularly practical for groups that do not want to experience every meal rhythm as externally determined. This is also ideal for school classes and clubs, as daily routines can remain flexible. The official descriptions also make it clear that the Spatzennest is suitable for family celebrations. The Ulm page explicitly states that family celebrations can be held there, and NaturFreunde Deutschland describes the house as family- and child-friendly in both indoor and outdoor facilities. This mix makes the Spatzennest a place where not only consumption occurs, but where community is created. Those searching for a location that is neither sterile nor over-staged will find here a place that combines nature-connected simplicity with functional group rooms. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Photos, Outdoor Area, and Family Friendliness at the House
For many inquiries about the Spatzennest, the focus is not primarily on gastronomy, but on the impression from the outside: What does the house look like, how does the area appear, and is it suitable for children? This is where the location scores particularly well. The official house directory shows a photo gallery of the Naturfreundehaus, and the Ulm page describes the house as a destination for hiking, cycling, and dining on the edge of the Kleines Lautertal nature reserve. Additionally, the house directory mentions a sunbathing lawn, a children's playground, a play area, a barbecue area, and table tennis tables. The Ulm reporting adds a generous outdoor area with many play opportunities and a small children's playground located directly at the house. This also fits excellently with the reviews and usage reports from practice: the Spatzennest is not a slick event location, but a place with a real outdoor focus, where children can move and adults can find peace, view, and community. The tourism page of the city of Blaustein explicitly names the Spatzennest as a resting point for hikers and cyclists; according to the city, the outdoor area and playground invite you to linger with friends and family. Therefore, those searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Photos" actually want to see this atmosphere: a house embedded in the landscape, with space for picnics, games, group time, and short breaks. The photos and descriptions together convey the impression of a very down-to-earth nature place. This is precisely what gives it its charm: not spectacular in the sense of being large and loud, but sympathetic, open, and lively in the sense of being simply usable. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
History of the Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
The history of the Spatzennest is a strong argument for its significance in the region. An article by NaturFreunde Deutschland tells that Ulm Naturfreunde developed the desire for their own hiking home after World War I and chose a rock outcrop in the current nature reserve Lautertal near Weidach as the site. Construction began on May 10, 1924, with a lot of self-help and volunteer work: men dug the building site, and women fetched masonry stones from a quarry. On June 5, 1927, the house was finally inaugurated with a large parade from Herrlingen station to the new Naturfreundehaus; around 2,500 Naturfreunde and guests were present. Even then, the house stood for community, nature experience, and political as well as social self-organization. The article also describes that the building at that time contained mass accommodations, common rooms, a kitchen, and sleeping quarters, and the house offered overnight accommodations for about 100 people. Today, the house is smaller and more manageable, but the idea behind it remains the same: a Naturfreunde house supported by volunteer work and solidarity. The article emphasizes that around 80 Naturfreunde volunteer to provide catering, overnight stays, biotope care, and renovations. This continuity is remarkable because it shows that the Spatzennest is not just a pretty place in the green, but a living piece of club and cultural history. Those searching for the history of the Spatzennest will find here a narrative of manual labor, perseverance, community spirit, and closeness to the landscape. This is precisely why the house has a special aura to this day: it does not seem constructed to impress, but has grown to be used. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/idealisten-mit-handwagen-pickeln-und-schaufeln))
Hiking, Excursions, and Nature Experience Around the Spatzennest
The actual strength of the NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest lies in the fact that it is more than just a destination. It is a starting point, a pause, a meeting point, and a viewpoint at the same time. The house directory lists hiking trails and cycling paths in the immediate vicinity, each about one kilometer away, as well as long-distance hiking trails, long-distance cycling paths, a swimming pool ten kilometers away, an indoor pool four kilometers away, and a climbing hall about twenty kilometers away. The city of Blaustein highlights the Spatzennest as a hiking and excursion destination on the edge of the nature reserve, and the tourism page recommends the surroundings for nature-oriented family time, routes through the biotopes of the Swabian Jura, and views over the landscape. This fits very well with the character of the house: those coming here usually combine dining with movement. For hiking groups, the location on the Alb plateau is ideal, for families, the playground and outdoor area are attractive, and for groups with overnight stays, the combination of self-catering kitchen, common rooms, and nature is immediately usable. Particularly important is the view of the small Lautertal. It not only provides a beautiful backdrop for the house but also makes the pause thematically coherent: here, one experiences the landscape not as decoration but as the core of the stay. In the official texts, the house is also described as well-suited for individual hikers, families, clubs, school classes, and groups. Therefore, those searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Weidach" or "Naturfreunde spatzennest" are usually looking for this mix of movement, dining, simplicity, and natural surroundings. The Spatzennest consistently meets this desire: not with luxury, but with location, community, and a clear, honest focus on nature experience. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Sources:
- NaturFreunde Deutschland - Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
- NaturFreunde Ulm - Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
- City of Blaustein - Information about Weidach
- NaturFreunde Deutschland - Idealists with Handcarts, Picks, and Shovels
- NaturFreunde Ulm - Opening Hours Spatzennest
- Ulm News - The NaturFreunde House Spatzennest is open daily until mid-September
- City of Blaustein - Hiking
NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest | Opening Hours & Photos
The NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest in Blaustein-Weidach is a classic Naturfreunde house with a clear focus on hiking, dining, overnight stays, and shared experiences in nature. It is located on the southern slope of the Swabian Jura, at about 610 meters above sea level, between juniper heath and beech forest, with a view of the nature reserve Kleines Lautertal. This location makes the place particularly attractive for day visitors, families, hiking groups, and nature lovers: the house is close enough to Ulm and Blaubeuren for an uncomplicated trip, yet far enough away to be perceived as a true retreat in the landscape. The city of Blaustein describes Weidach as a district on a plateau between Kiesen and Lautertal; the Spatzennest is a prominent meeting point for hikers. The house directory also lists overnight accommodations, a partially managed orientation with drinks, and the possibility to spend relaxed time outdoors and indoors. For visitors searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Blaustein", "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Weidach", "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Ulm", or "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Opening Hours", the Spatzennest is therefore primarily a practical and nature-oriented point of contact with a strong family and excursion character. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Opening Hours and Catering at Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
Those wishing to visit the Spatzennest should be aware of the seasonal opening hours, as the house is not a year-round continuously managed operation, but follows the typical rhythm of a Naturfreunde house. According to the official house directory, the Spatzennest is open from early March to late November. During this time, it is open on Sundays and public holidays from 12 to 18 o'clock. From Pentecost until the summer holidays, it is additionally open on Saturdays from 12 to 18 o'clock, and during the Baden-Württemberg summer holidays, the house is accessible every day from 12 to 18 o'clock. The Ulm house page confirms this seasonal character and adds that volunteer house service offers snacks, coffee, cake, and drinks on Sundays and public holidays. In practice, this means: the Spatzennest is deliberately designed for calm, reliable, and community-organized catering, not for a hectic continuous operation. This fits perfectly with the atmosphere of the house and the location on the edge of the Kleines Lautertal nature reserve. Therefore, those searching for "opening hours" will not find an anonymous gastro opening here, but a clearly seasonal nature experience with honest, simple provisions. The Ulm page also mentions regional and ecological ingredients, such as cider from traditional apple orchards, organic cheese, and meat and sausage from the region. Additionally, fair-trade organic coffee, tea, and chocolate are offered. This creates a coherent picture: the Spatzennest aims not only to be a destination for eating and drinking but also a place with a conscious, decelerated character. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Directions to Blaustein-Weidach: Location, Car, and Bus
The location of the NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest is particularly interesting for day-trippers because it is close to nature yet relatively easy to reach. The official directions describe two clear routes by car: via the A8, exit Ulm-West, then via Dornstadt-Bollingen-Weidach, or from Ulm via the B28 to Herrlingen and then towards Weidach/Bermaringen. For guests without a car, there are also arrangements: according to the house page, the Ulm-Freiburg train line goes to Herrlingen, and from there, bus line 37 connects Ulm via Herrlingen to Weidach, with the nearest stop about 600 meters away. This combination makes the house particularly practical for hikers, families, and groups who want to combine their outing with a small tour. The city of Blaustein and the tourism page also describe Weidach and the surrounding area as a scenic area on the edge of the Kleines Lautertal, with well-utilized paths and excursion destinations. Although no specific parking count is mentioned on the officially cited pages, the journey via the classic Alb and Lautertal route is described in such a way that the visit can be planned easily. Therefore, those searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Directions" will find not only an address here but also clear orientation towards the Alb plateau, Herrlingen, and the small natural area around Weidach. For SEO intent, it is important: the Spatzennest is not located in the middle of the city, but deliberately on the edge of a quiet landscape, and this shapes the journey, arrival, and experience on-site. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Overnight Stays, Beds, and Room Offers at Spatzennest
The NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest is not only a dining destination but also a small overnight house with solid facilities for groups and individual guests. The official house directory lists 33 beds in various room sizes: two double rooms with running cold and hot water, one quadruple room with running cold and hot water, two six-bed rooms with running cold and hot water, and one larger 13-bed room without running cold and hot water. The Ulm house page formulates the scope a bit differently and mentions 30 beds in double and multi-bed rooms. For practical purposes, one thing is especially important: the Spatzennest remains a manageable, personal house with a limited number of beds, not a large hotel complex. Additionally, there are two wash and shower rooms with three sinks and two showers each, as well as a self-catering kitchen. Overnight stays are possible from 15.00 Euros for a simple overnight stay; the complete price list is provided upon request. Therefore, those searching for "overnight stays", "beds", or "room offers" will get an image of a house that is oriented towards simple, functional, and nature-connected use. Particularly noteworthy are the two common rooms for up to 50 people. This makes the Spatzennest attractive for seminars, group trips, club weekends, or family gatherings, where shared time, self-catering, and outdoor activities are the focus. The Ulm page explicitly mentions individual hikers, families, groups, clubs, and school classes as guest groups. This openness makes the house versatile without losing its simple character. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Room Offers, Self-Catering Kitchen, and Groups in Everyday Life
The Spatzennest is clearly structured for communal use. The official house description mentions two common rooms for 50 people, a partially managed supply of drinks, and a self-catering kitchen. This clearly indicates why the house has been used for seminars, group meetings, and practical nature experiences for many years: people can eat together, organize themselves, retreat, and at the same time intensively involve the outdoor area. The Ulm house page describes a catering offer with regional and ecological ingredients, such as cider from traditional apple orchards, organic cheese, as well as sausage and meat from the region. Fair-trade organic coffee, tea, and chocolate are also offered. This is relevant for guests looking for a simple yet conscious dining place. The combination of a self-catering kitchen and partially managed supply is particularly practical for groups that do not want to experience every meal rhythm as externally determined. This is also ideal for school classes and clubs, as daily routines can remain flexible. The official descriptions also make it clear that the Spatzennest is suitable for family celebrations. The Ulm page explicitly states that family celebrations can be held there, and NaturFreunde Deutschland describes the house as family- and child-friendly in both indoor and outdoor facilities. This mix makes the Spatzennest a place where not only consumption occurs, but where community is created. Those searching for a location that is neither sterile nor over-staged will find here a place that combines nature-connected simplicity with functional group rooms. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Photos, Outdoor Area, and Family Friendliness at the House
For many inquiries about the Spatzennest, the focus is not primarily on gastronomy, but on the impression from the outside: What does the house look like, how does the area appear, and is it suitable for children? This is where the location scores particularly well. The official house directory shows a photo gallery of the Naturfreundehaus, and the Ulm page describes the house as a destination for hiking, cycling, and dining on the edge of the Kleines Lautertal nature reserve. Additionally, the house directory mentions a sunbathing lawn, a children's playground, a play area, a barbecue area, and table tennis tables. The Ulm reporting adds a generous outdoor area with many play opportunities and a small children's playground located directly at the house. This also fits excellently with the reviews and usage reports from practice: the Spatzennest is not a slick event location, but a place with a real outdoor focus, where children can move and adults can find peace, view, and community. The tourism page of the city of Blaustein explicitly names the Spatzennest as a resting point for hikers and cyclists; according to the city, the outdoor area and playground invite you to linger with friends and family. Therefore, those searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Photos" actually want to see this atmosphere: a house embedded in the landscape, with space for picnics, games, group time, and short breaks. The photos and descriptions together convey the impression of a very down-to-earth nature place. This is precisely what gives it its charm: not spectacular in the sense of being large and loud, but sympathetic, open, and lively in the sense of being simply usable. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
History of the Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
The history of the Spatzennest is a strong argument for its significance in the region. An article by NaturFreunde Deutschland tells that Ulm Naturfreunde developed the desire for their own hiking home after World War I and chose a rock outcrop in the current nature reserve Lautertal near Weidach as the site. Construction began on May 10, 1924, with a lot of self-help and volunteer work: men dug the building site, and women fetched masonry stones from a quarry. On June 5, 1927, the house was finally inaugurated with a large parade from Herrlingen station to the new Naturfreundehaus; around 2,500 Naturfreunde and guests were present. Even then, the house stood for community, nature experience, and political as well as social self-organization. The article also describes that the building at that time contained mass accommodations, common rooms, a kitchen, and sleeping quarters, and the house offered overnight accommodations for about 100 people. Today, the house is smaller and more manageable, but the idea behind it remains the same: a Naturfreunde house supported by volunteer work and solidarity. The article emphasizes that around 80 Naturfreunde volunteer to provide catering, overnight stays, biotope care, and renovations. This continuity is remarkable because it shows that the Spatzennest is not just a pretty place in the green, but a living piece of club and cultural history. Those searching for the history of the Spatzennest will find here a narrative of manual labor, perseverance, community spirit, and closeness to the landscape. This is precisely why the house has a special aura to this day: it does not seem constructed to impress, but has grown to be used. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/idealisten-mit-handwagen-pickeln-und-schaufeln))
Hiking, Excursions, and Nature Experience Around the Spatzennest
The actual strength of the NaturFreundeHaus Spatzennest lies in the fact that it is more than just a destination. It is a starting point, a pause, a meeting point, and a viewpoint at the same time. The house directory lists hiking trails and cycling paths in the immediate vicinity, each about one kilometer away, as well as long-distance hiking trails, long-distance cycling paths, a swimming pool ten kilometers away, an indoor pool four kilometers away, and a climbing hall about twenty kilometers away. The city of Blaustein highlights the Spatzennest as a hiking and excursion destination on the edge of the nature reserve, and the tourism page recommends the surroundings for nature-oriented family time, routes through the biotopes of the Swabian Jura, and views over the landscape. This fits very well with the character of the house: those coming here usually combine dining with movement. For hiking groups, the location on the Alb plateau is ideal, for families, the playground and outdoor area are attractive, and for groups with overnight stays, the combination of self-catering kitchen, common rooms, and nature is immediately usable. Particularly important is the view of the small Lautertal. It not only provides a beautiful backdrop for the house but also makes the pause thematically coherent: here, one experiences the landscape not as decoration but as the core of the stay. In the official texts, the house is also described as well-suited for individual hikers, families, clubs, school classes, and groups. Therefore, those searching for "Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest Weidach" or "Naturfreunde spatzennest" are usually looking for this mix of movement, dining, simplicity, and natural surroundings. The Spatzennest consistently meets this desire: not with luxury, but with location, community, and a clear, honest focus on nature experience. ([naturfreunde.de](https://www.naturfreunde.de/haus/naturfreundehaus-spatzennest))
Sources:
- NaturFreunde Deutschland - Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
- NaturFreunde Ulm - Naturfreundehaus Spatzennest
- City of Blaustein - Information about Weidach
- NaturFreunde Deutschland - Idealists with Handcarts, Picks, and Shovels
- NaturFreunde Ulm - Opening Hours Spatzennest
- Ulm News - The NaturFreunde House Spatzennest is open daily until mid-September
- City of Blaustein - Hiking
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Frequently Asked Questions
Reviews
Max Ky
8. August 2018
Supercute
Ralf Greiner
8. March 2026
Unfortunately, they've now matched the size of the cake slices to those at the Weidacher Hütte. There was a discount, but it's still annoying.
irmgard neureuther
26. October 2025
For many years, we have been bringing a group of students (16 to 20 young people) here regularly for an intensive three-day seminar. The young people really enjoy coming. The simple facilities, the slower Wi-Fi, the self-catering, the fantastic outdoor area, the fire pit, etc., all contribute significantly to a sense of relaxation and focused work. The group is always given a very friendly welcome, and everything is clean and tidy. We are already looking forward to next year.
Ingba
16. May 2023
Lovely house in an idyllic location. I stayed there for a birthday party. It has a fully equipped kitchen, a great outdoor area with a sandbox, slide, and a lovely garden. The rooms are cozy and clean.
Simon Reitz
31. March 2019
A lovely, idyllic spot with food and drinks available at very reasonable prices. The playground is perfect for little ones, and older children can explore the forest trails. Parking is available. The cabin can be reserved for parties, and overnight stays are possible.