Großhesselohe

Nestled alongside the Isar River, Großhesselohe whispers tales of trains, treaties, and even a touch of Hollywood. Großhesselohe Isartalbahnhof, our focal point, isn’t just a station. It’s a time capsule. The year is 1891. Imagine the hiss of steam and the clatter of iron as the first train chugs into Großhesselohe station on the newly opened Isar Valley Railway. This line, connecting Munich to Bichl, brought life and connection to this tranquil area. Großhesselohe, however, held a unique position. Just north of the Isartalbahnhof stood a grand iron giant, the Großhesselohe Bridge. This bridge carried the Munich-Holzkirchen railway, a vital part of Bavaria’s Maximilian’s Railway. This meant Großhesselohe was a crossroads, a meeting point of two important lines. This confluence of connections would shape its destiny. Fast forward to 1938. A new curve connecting Solln station to Großhesselohe Isartalbahnhof is added. This linked the station to the Maximilian’s Railway, further solidifying its role as a transportation hub. While initially intended for freight, by 1950 passenger services were also utilizing this connection. The station’s unique charm even caught the eye of Hollywood. In 1963, Großhesselohe Isartalbahnhof played a role in the iconic war film, “The Great Escape.” Picture Steve McQueen, perhaps, passing through this very station. A touch of Hollywood glamour in the heart of Bavaria. But time marches on. In 1964, a section of the Isar Valley Railway between Großhesselohe and Sendling closed. A chapter ended, but a new one was about to begin. 1981 saw Großhesselohe transformed into a modern S-Bahn station. The old station building, thankfully, was preserved, its asymmetrical design a charming echo of the Isar Valley’s early stations. Today, it houses the Isarbräu brewery and restaurant. Imagine raising a glass of their Weißbier on the old platform, now a bustling beer garden, the echoes of history swirling around you. Großhesselohe Isartalbahnhof is more than a station. It’s a testament to the passage of time, a place where history, industry, and even a touch of Hollywood magic converge.