Plankenfels between rivers and rocks

Plankenfels lies on three rivers, with a striking dolomite crag rising above the village. The Via Imperialis starts in Plankenfels and leads through forests and across wide open fields. The area also offers traces of local history and insights into regional geology. You can shape your trip around a range of interests—from panoramic views and hiking to exploring the past.

Rivers, dolomite and wide-open views

Plankenfels lies on the three rivers Wiesent, Lochau and Truppach. Rising above the village is the 481-metre-high Plankenstein, a striking dolomite crag. The rock attracts hikers with its panoramic views in every direction and is also a popular climbing spot. The water, rock and views give the village a distinctive landscape.

Those interested in the region’s geology can also follow a geological hiking trail in Plankenfels, which offers an accessible introduction to local geology. It complements the views of Plankenstein with an explanatory perspective on the landscape. The different themes—rivers, rocks and geology—offer practical ideas for choosing what to focus on during your stay.

Discover hiking trails and culture

The Via Imperialis starts in Plankenfels and follows paths through open fields, forest and woodland, passing viewpoints and crossing wide open fields on its way to Muthmannsreuth. The signed route is 13.5 kilometres long. Check the local trail markers before setting out. A detour to Neubürg offers the chance to explore the NaturKunstRaum Neubürg.

Cultural hiking trails are also part of the regional offering: six trails in and around the municipality of Plankenfels were developed as part of the 2020 ILE regional budget and published in a leaflet with information about them. Route planning can therefore take cultural themes into account as well as the landscape.

Traces of the past in the village

Plankenfels Castle probably dates back to a castle complex built in 1255. The Eichenmühle near Plankenfels offers a different historical focus: it was a grain and saw mill, was first mentioned in official records in 1692, and ceased operations in 1955. The two sites represent different aspects of the past—a castle complex that may be older, and a mill once used for grinding grain and sawing timber.

The wider area: Bayreuth

The wider destination of Bayreuth features a variety of landscapes across the district: Franconian Switzerland shapes its western and southern parts, while the Fichtelgebirge, with its dark forests and granite boulder fields, defines the north. Bayreuth district has a well-maintained network of around 1,400 kilometres of cross-country ski trails, hiking trails and cycle paths. Long-distance and themed cycle routes explore different natural landscapes; local circular routes add to the network and make it possible to plan shorter routes.

Franconian food culture is also part of the character of Bayreuth district. A typical feature is the large number of beer gardens, often associated with their own breweries, butchers or bakeries. Traditional inns serve Franconian-style dining rooms and regional specialities. In the wider destination of Bayreuth, local cuisine complements the nature and culture on offer.

Choose accommodation to suit your interests

When looking for suitable accommodation, you can start by thinking about what you want your stay to focus on: the panoramic views from Plankenstein, the signed Via Imperialis, geology or historic sites. If you’d like to explore the wider area, the landscapes, cycling routes and food culture of Bayreuth district may also be of interest.

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