Google-Maps Franconian Switzerland

Franconian Switzerland

The cities triangle of Bamberg - Bayreuth - Nuremberg defines Franconian Switzerland. A nature park for decades, it"s one of the oldest and most popular vacation regions in Germany, with a nearly structured, rural landscape of romantic, graceful valleys.

Medieval castles and ruins rise up majestically. Idyllic, small villages with wooden framework line the trails of hikers, bikers, and Nordic Walkers. The adventure-seeking vacationer finds many activities waiting for him: Flying with the Feuerstein School in Ebermannstadt and in Pegnitz, golfing in Thurnau, in Kanndorf, and in Pottenstein, kayaking on the Wiesent River, fly-fishing in Wiesenttal Valley, and rock-climbing in Trubachtal Valley. For families with kids we recommend a visit to one of the two fun parts of Franconian Wonderland in Plech and Thurn Castle at Forchheim; or perhaps a speedy sledging on the alpine slide at Pottenstein

Wellness enthusiasts are treated to a variety of possibilities in the thermal spa bath of Obernsee. A complex network of hiking and biking trails meets every level of athleticism. The "Hiking without baggage" program has proven a particularly popular option: Unburdened by heavy bags, three tours of 5, 6, or 7 days can be booked at the tourism center. A special treat for those guests interested in geology are the more than 1000 caves. To protect the environment, not all of them can be explored, but Sophie"s, Devil"s, and Bing Cave more than make up for that. Especially interesting for families: The wildlife park of Hundshaupten near Egloffstein, as well as the wildlife park "Hufeisen" (horse shoe) in the Veldenstein Forest. The art of falconry is performed at the Castle of Rabenstein, where more than 60 both diurnal and nocturnal birds of prey are appropriately kept for aviary. Culture lovers will find treasures of their taste in the numerous museums in the region.

Franconian Switzerland has been known as the romantic "Land of Castles, Caves, and Mills" for the last 200 years; and rightly so. On top of that, this area of about 2,500 sq.km charms its visitors with its rural characteristics. An entertaining range of countless village festivities and traditional church fairs mirror the old customs of the nature park. Guided tours on educational nature trails or a visit to a local shepherd offer an exciting glance at rural life while guaranteeing informative and fun all-weather diversions.

Typical and widely known are the Easter Fountains (Osterbrunnen) that attract ten thousands of visitors each year. In Bieberbach near Egloffstein you can find the world"s largest Easter Fountain, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Franconian Switzerland is also known as the largest growing area of sweet cherries - an ideal basis for the 300 liquor breweries in the county of Forchheim alone. Between late April and early May, Franconian Switzerland turns into a dreamy landscape when countless fruit trees put on their beautiful flower dress.

But also the 71 breweries of Franconian Switzerland should be mentioned: The world"s highest density of private breweries is located in Aufseß (pop. 1,500) where four breweries create their "liquid bread", and sometimes sell it only in their own tavern. Another special experience for all ages is a ride with the museum train, linking Ebermannstadt and Baehringermühle between May and October on every Sunday and all holidays.