Fichtelberg: Lake Fichtelsee, Hiking Trails and Mining History

Lake, shady trails, winter sports and a long mining history give Fichtelberg many different sides. At Lake Fichtelsee, water and forest meet the mountain ranges of Schneeberg and Ochsenkopf; in Neubau, a visitor mine and museums tell the story of regional history and technology. So when planning your trip, it is worth first asking which experiences you want to shape your stay: nature and activity, or exhibitions and culture.

Lake Fichtelsee and trails through the landscape

Lake Fichtelsee lies in the northern part of Fichtelberg at an elevation of about 750 metres and is framed by Schneeberg and Ochsenkopf. In summer, it is a popular place to swim. In winter, an ice surface is prepared beside the lake, weather permitting. The two seasons therefore offer different possibilities; use of the ice surface is expressly subject to suitable conditions.

The Barefoot Sensory Trail also starts at Lake Fichtelsee: its starting point is at the visitor car park in Fichtelberg-Neubau. The approximately 1.5-kilometre route follows two loops through shady woodland along the lakeshore.

For longer hikes, Fichtelberg offers marked trails that pass clear streams, forest meadows and rock formations and lead to viewpoints in the region. Seven Fichtelberg Siebenstern hiking trails lie at the foot of Ochsenkopf. A hike starting in Fichtelberg can also take you to the sources of the Weissmain and Fichtelnaab rivers. The Siebenstern trails describe art, crafts, nature and the environment; a hiking map also explains these topics.

Get active in every season

In Fichtelberg-Neubau, the Bleaml Alm winter sports centre has an asphalt roller-ski track about 2.6 kilometres long. In summer, it is used for roller-ski training and inline skating. It can also serve as a link between two long-distance cycle routes. This makes it a special option for travellers who want to include cycling and other active pursuits in their plans.

The winter offering at Fichtelberg’s Bleaml Alm includes a 2.5-kilometre night-time cross-country ski trail with snowmaking and lighting. Check snow and lighting conditions before your visit. Routes are available for Nordic walking and mountain biking; opportunities for horse riding depend on what local providers offer. These activities are not interchangeable: the roller-ski track is used in summer, while the night-time ski trail is a seasonal winter option.

Mining, vehicles and rural life

The Gleißinger Fels visitor mine is in Neubau, a district of Fichtelberg, and has a 500-year mining history. Mining played a major role in Neubau’s development and was an important livelihood for residents until the mid-20th century. Gleißinger Fels is said to be the world’s only silver-iron mine open to visitors. Visitor experiences include a tour along accessible levels and a documentary about the history of mining; check current visiting arrangements in advance.

The German Vehicle Museum Fichtelberg offers a different technical perspective. It combines an automobile museum with an outdoor aircraft exhibition and a special exhibition hall. Its collections include vintage cars, prototypes, racing cars, motorcycles, aircraft and helicopters; the exhibits may change. If you would rather see what life was like on a historic farm, the Mühlgütl Village Museum in Neubau features a farm built in 1790 using traditional log construction. The cellar, living room, bedroom, stable and small-animal stable have been preserved.

Weigh up experiences and accommodation options

The Fichtelgebirge also offers a taste of regional cuisine, including Fichtelgebirge trout, Schäufala, Sauerbraten, asparagus and mushroom dishes, game dishes and venison sausage. Which of these dishes individual restaurants offer may vary. When choosing where to stay, you can consider which travel interests matter most to you during your visit.

Discover more destinations: Betzenstein, Weidenberg, Bischofsgrün, Warmensteinach, Eckersdorf, Mistelgau, Bindlach, Bayreuth.

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