Fichtelgebirge: Granite, Peaks and Nature

Granite landscapes, distinctive peaks and trails through a diverse natural and active landscape shape the Fichtelgebirge. The nature park covers more than 1,000 square kilometres between the centres of Bayreuth, Hof and Weiden and the Czech city of Cheb (Eger). The four best-known rivers that rise in the Fichtelgebirge are the Main, Eger, Naab and Saale. When planning a trip, you can focus on peaks, hikes, cycling routes, wildlife watching or time by a lake.

Peaks and Rocks of the Fichtelgebirge

At 1,053 metres, Schneeberg is the highest mountain in Franconia. Ochsenkopf reaches 1,024 metres and is the second-highest mountain in the Fichtelgebirge. These two elevations provide clear landmarks in the landscape. Ochsenkopf is also home to the Asenturm, built in 1922/23, which houses the highest-altitude restaurant in the Fichtelgebirge. If visiting the restaurant is important to your plans, check the latest information in advance.

Geologically, the Fichtelgebirge is characterised above all by granite. Other rocks found here include gneiss, basalt, phyllite slate, marble, quartz, proterobas and soapstone. At Epprechtstein, you can combine an outing with a closer look at granite: The summit castle ruins are a popular destination and offer excellent panoramic views. The Steinbruchwanderweg (Quarry Trail) links the numerous granite quarries on the slopes of Epprechtstein and starts at the Granite Labyrinth. Views, architectural history and quarries each offer a different focus for a day outdoors.

Hikes and Experiences Along the Way

For planning hikes, the Fichtelgebirge Tourism Authority’s tour portal currently lists more than 260 hiking routes. It includes an interactive map, printable PDFs and GPS data for smartphones. You can browse different routes and choose the map or data format that suits your plans. The “Fränkischer Gebirgsweg” quality hiking trail also passes through the Fichtelgebirge’s natural and active landscape.

For a different nature experience, visit the wildlife enclosure at Waldhaus Mehlmeisel: A circular trail leads through native wildlife, while a three-metre-high elevated walkway runs above the lynx and wild boar enclosures. Animal populations and visitor arrangements may change; check the operator’s latest information before your visit. If you are planning a trip and weighing up activity against wildlife watching, you can choose from different ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Cycling is another possible focus. The Brückenradweg Bayern-Böhmen is one of the cycling routes that pass through the Fichtelgebirge’s natural and active landscape. Hiking and cycling offer two different ways to explore the region, while the Fränkischer Gebirgsweg provides another reference point for hikers. The activity you want to focus on can be a useful starting point when looking for accommodation.

Fichtelsee: Recreation and Protected Areas

The different sections of Fichtelsee serve different purposes: The southern section is a local recreation area with bathing spots and a restaurant. If you plan to use the bathing spots or visit the restaurant, check the latest visitor information in advance. The northern and eastern sections were designated a 45.4-hectare nature reserve in 1939 and expanded in 1982 to 139.2 hectares as the “Naturwaldreservat Fichtelseemoor” (Fichtelseemoor Natural Forest Reserve). The lake thus combines recreational opportunities with a protected natural area, with each section having a different focus.

The nature park’s area of more than 1,000 square kilometres provides a broad regional setting; you can narrow down your options based on the activities that interest you most. This gives you a clear idea of how you would like to explore the Fichtelgebirge as you begin your search.

Discover More Destinations

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