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Best trails in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park

Best trails in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park

4.1(2,558 reviews)

·

Bavaria
: 
#8 of 21 nature parks

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In the north of Bavaria, between the cities of Nuremberg, Bamberg and Bayreuth, lies the Franconian Switzerland - Franconian Jura Nature Park, which was known as the Franconian Switzerland - Veldensteiner Nature Park until 2018. With an area of 2346 km², it is the second largest nature park in the state after the Altmühltal Nature Park.

On marvellous hiking trails through romantic valley sections and wide Jura plateaus, you can relax and discover a lot - the region is not called the land of castles, caves, rocks and valleys for nothing. The show caves can be explored with an experienced cave guide. Canoeing, exploring museums or visiting castles and monasteries - the numerous information centres in the park will tell you all about what is possible.

Top sights

Glocke
Glocke
Cliff
Spitzer Turm
Spitzer Turm
Cliff
Predigtstuhl
Predigtstuhl
Cliff
Adamsfelsenhöhle
Adamsfelsenhöhle
Cave
Nasenwand
Nasenwand
Cliff
Vogelherdgrotte
Vogelherdgrotte
Cave

Top trails

  1. #1 - Muggendorf Cave Trail

    4.5 (101)·Moderate·6.9 km·Est. 2.5–3 hr
    Adventurous circular hiking trail in the Franconian Switzerland-Frankenjura Nature Park, Bavaria. Caves are to be discovered, and views are enjoyed on this popular circular route in Franconian Switzerland. Since the very well-marked path leads through some dark caves, a flashlight or a smartphone with a light function is recommended. An exhilarating hike for the whole family! There are rest stops in Muggendorf. Highlights of the hike: - Oswald Cave - Miracle Cave - Cave of jokes -...

  2. #2 - Pottenstein Circular

    4.7 (80)·Moderate·7.7 km·Est. 2–2.5 hr
    Official circular hiking trail near Pottenstein in Bavaria. The Pottenstein circular hiking trail, also known as the romantic tour, inspires with beautiful landscapes, idyll and tranquility. This route from Potterstein first leads along the Püttlach for almost 9 kilometers. The trail marker here is a red cross on a white background. Later it follows another trail marker, a blue vertical bar. The starting point, Pottenstein, is a state-approved climatic health resort. With Pottenstein Castle...

  3. #3 - The Karstological Hiking Trail

    4.5 (81)·Moderate·12.6 km·Est. 4–4.5 hr
    Family-friendly circular route in Middle Franconia. The karst hiking trail near Neuhaus an der Pegnitz is an extraordinary hike that leads through an impressive karst landscape to grottos and caves, stone witnesses, sacrificial stones and the largest stalactite in Germany. The circular route starts and ends at Neuhaus railway station. The trail has many steep ascents and descents and sturdy footwear is recommended. Caution! Some of the markings are only recognisable at a late stage. The...

  4. #4 - Pommelsbrunn 1,000-Meter High-Altitude Trail

    4.6 (67)·Hard·22.9 km·Est. 8–9 hr
    This varied circular walk starts right in the village of Pommelsbrunn and winds its way through the hilly landscape of the Franconian Switzerland Nature Park. Two interconnected loops take you over several hills, including the Leitenberg and the Kreuzberg. Along the way, historic sights such as the ruins of Lichtenstein Castle and the Altes Haus castle site invite you to explore. The unspoilt paths lead through peaceful woodland and over rocky terrain to impressive rock formations. The...

  5. #5 - Cave Hike: Muggendorf Circular Route

    4.6 (69)·Moderate·12.4 km·Est. 4–4.5 hr
    Varied circular route in the Franconian Switzerland-Frankenjura Nature Park, Bavaria. This romantic hiking trail starts in Muggendorf, from where you first follow the hiking sign with the vertical red line. The first exciting highlight of this tour will soon be reached: The Oswald Cave, which is finally crossed completely (don't forget your flashlights!). It continues through the forest to the Zwecklesgraben, from where the path is marked with a yellow ring. In the further course of the...

  6. #6 - Pottenstein Circular Route

    4.5 (39)·Hard·16.4 km·Est. 5–5.5 hr
    Varied circular route in the Franconian Switzerland Nature Park from Pottenstein. The beautiful hiking route leads through forests, along small streams and over hills with interesting rock formations and caves, which are so often found in the Franconian Jura. With a bit of luck, game and other native animals can be spotted along the idyllic trail. The trail starts at the Weihersbachtal car park, which is subject to a charge. The "B470" bus stop is also nearby. Highlights: - Pottenstein...

  7. #7 - Walberla

    4.6 (31)·Moderate·4 km·Est. 1–1.5 hr
    Family-friendly circular hike in the Franconian Switzerland Nature Park near Wiesenthau. The scenic hiking route leads through the Ehrenbürg nature reserve, which consists of two individual mountains connected by a saddle. This picturesque tour takes you to both peaks, Walberla and Rodenstein, along the reconstruction of the Celtic ring wall, to the church of St Walpurgis and past the hermit's cave. There are sections with steps along the way. Highlights of the route: - Church of St...

  8. #8 - Loop through the rock gorge

    4.6 (39)·Moderate·6.6 km·Est. 2.5–3 hr
    There is a lot to discover on this circular hiking trail. It takes you to the Binghöhle, a stalactite cave that is part of the "Jurahöhle Adventure World". If you like, you can take a detour to the Wedenbach waterfall and the historic Streitburg castle in the village. There is a Kneipp facility and beautiful views of the landscape.

  9. #9 - Esperhöhle Cave

    4.7 (25)·Moderate·10.9 km·Est. 3.5–4 hr
    Start: Tourist Information Gößweinstein, accessible by bus and train/parking nearby Highlights: - Pilgrimage basilica of the Holy Trinity in Gößweinstein - Esper cave - Gaillenreuth Castle with refreshment stops - Sachsenmühle beer garden directly on the river with a beautiful panorama - Historic Gößweinstein Castle

  10. #10 - Püttlach Circular Route

    4.6 (31)·Moderate·7.1 km·Est. 2–2.5 hr
    Idyllic walk in Pottenstein, Bavaria. From the car park, the route leads through the beautiful and shady forest along the Püttlach. This route is located in the popular Franconian Switzerland - Veldensteiner Forst Nature Park. There is a car park right next to the forest café where the hike can be started. Highlights: - Püttlach valley - Püttlachtal Kneipp facility - Hydroelectric power station - Adam's Rock Cave - Small waterfalls
Showing results 1–10 of 694
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Visitor info

Accessibility
Facilities

The information centre in the "Old Train Station" in Muggendorf, for example, is open daily from 8.30 am to 6 pm between April and October.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to hike in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park is Muggendorf Cave Trail which has a 4.5 star rating from 101 reviews. This trail is 6.9 km long with an elevation gain of 343 m.

What is the longest trail in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park is Frankenweg (Fernwanderweg). This trail is estimated to be 522.4 km long.

How many trails are in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

There are 694 trails in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park.These trails have an average 4.1-star ratingfrom NaN AllTrails community reviews.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Frankenweg (Fernwanderweg) has the most elevation gain with 15,303 m of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Franconian Mountain Trail, which has 11,819 m of elevation gain.

Are there camping trails available in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 80 camping trails in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park and the most popular is Pottenstein Circular Route with an average 4.5 star rating from 39 community reviews.

Are there running trails available in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 84 running trails in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park and the most popular is Muggendorf Cave Trail with an average 4.5 star rating from 101 community reviews.

Are there biking trails available in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 59 biking trails in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park and the most popular is Paradiestal with an average 4.5 star rating from 28 community reviews.

Are there any trails with scenic mountain peak views in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 464 trails with scenic mountain peak views in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Muggendorf Cave Trail, Pottenstein Circular, The Karstological Hiking Trail, Pommelsbrunn 1,000-Meter High-Altitude Trail and Cave Hike: Muggendorf Circular Route.

Are there any trails with cliffs in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 251 trails with cliffs in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Muggendorf Cave Trail, Pottenstein Circular, The Karstological Hiking Trail, Pommelsbrunn 1,000-Meter High-Altitude Trail and Cave Hike: Muggendorf Circular Route.

Are there any trails with archaeological sites in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 62 trails with archaeological sites in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Pommelsbrunn 1,000-Meter High-Altitude Trail, Walberla, Staffelberg Mountain, Staffelberg and Rundwanderung Walberla.

Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 208 trails with scenic viewpoints in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Muggendorf Cave Trail, Pottenstein Circular, The Karstological Hiking Trail, Pommelsbrunn 1,000-Meter High-Altitude Trail and Cave Hike: Muggendorf Circular Route.

Are there any trails with waterfalls in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 45 trails with waterfalls in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Loop through the rock gorge, Fünf-Seidla-Steig, Sinterstufen - Lillachquelle, Lillachquelle Spring via Leichenlinde and Binghöhle.

Are there any trails with springs in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 187 trails with springs in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Pottenstein Circular, Pottenstein Circular Route, Loop through the rock gorge, Esperhöhle Cave and Püttlach Circular Route.

Are there any trails with castles in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 322 trails with castles in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Pottenstein Circular, The Karstological Hiking Trail, Pommelsbrunn 1,000-Meter High-Altitude Trail, Pottenstein Circular Route and Loop through the rock gorge.

Are there any trails with caves in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 228 trails with caves in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Muggendorf Cave Trail, Pottenstein Circular, The Karstological Hiking Trail, Pommelsbrunn 1,000-Meter High-Altitude Trail and Cave Hike: Muggendorf Circular Route.

Are there any trails with ponds in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 43 trails with ponds in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Von Pottenstein zur Teufelshöhle, Pilgrimage Route PW2, Hasenlochhöhle-Waldtempel, Sommerrodelbahn Pottenstein and Teufelshöhlenrunde.

Are there any trails with rivers in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Are there any trails with weather shelters in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 9 trails with weather shelters in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Victor-von-Scheffel Rundweg, Rundwanderweg Heiligenstadt - Jüdischer Friedhof, MTB: Über das Trockental nach Heiligenstadt, Erzweg Etappe 2: Auerbach - Neuhaus and Hersbrucker Waldwanderung.

Are there any trails with lakes in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 7 trails with lakes in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Mainradweg Etappe 1a: Creußen - Kulmbach, Brewery tour: Nuremberg - Wolfsberg, Pilger-Brauerei-Tour, Frankenweg stage 5: Kulmbach - Weismain and Pegnitz-Radweg.

Are there any trails with picnic areas in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 35 trails with picnic areas in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Aufseß Waldwanderweg, Egloffstein zu dem Burgstein, Signalstein und Klagemauer ab Schossaritz, Plankenfels hiking trail "Lochautalweg" and Mainradweg Etappe 1a: Creußen - Kulmbach.

Are there any trails with historical ruins in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 37 trails with historical ruins in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Pottenstein Circular Route, Loop through the rock gorge, Rock Garden Sanspareil, Egloffsteiner Kulturweg Nr. 4 and Binghöhle.

Are there any trails with historical monuments in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 14 trails with historical monuments in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Pommelsbrunn 1,000-Meter High-Altitude Trail, Lichtenstein Castle - Pleßelberg - Kreuzberg, Pommelsbrunn Loop - Lichtenstein Castle, Hubmersberg - Lichtenegg Castle Ruins and Medium Geisberg tour.

Are there any trails with huts in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park?

Yes, there are 9 trails with huts in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park, including Walberlarunde, Cave Circular Route, Castle and Cave Hike in Streitberg, Keltenweg H and Walberla Loop.

Activities

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Suitability

Points of interest