Freyung-Grafenau: Gorge, Nature and History

Freyung-Grafenau lies at the junction of Bavaria, Bohemia and Austria. The region combines an impressive gorge landscape with natural attractions and cultural history: at the Buchberger Leite, rock ridges and rushing water shape the scenery; in Freyung, the Schramlhaus tells the story of rural building traditions; and near Neuschönau, the national park and native wildlife take centre stage. Which accommodation is right for your stay depends on which of these discoveries you would like to prioritise.

Gorge Landscapes and the National Park

The Bavarian Forest National Park extends into the district of Freyung-Grafenau and opened on 7 October 1970 as Germany’s first national park. Within the national park, 75.37 percent of the area belongs to the natural zones; the zoning on which this figure is based is dated 2024. This figure offers a specific insight into the designated zones of the protected area.

The Buchberger Leite wild stream gorge offers a striking landscape. Steep rock ridges funnel the boulder-strewn, cascade-filled Wolfsteiner Ohe into a deep channel. Remnants of primeval forest have survived in the gorge forests rich in moss and ferns. An eight-kilometre themed hiking trail with information boards and an accompanying brochure runs through the Leite between Freyung and Ringelai. Its length is a useful guide when considering how much of your day to set aside for a visit to the trail.

Traces of Nature and History

The Buchberger Leite also tells the story of human activity: historic timber-floating walls, tunnels hewn into the rock and surface canals bear witness to centuries of use. Geological formations, gorge forest and evidence of earlier work thus come together in one place.

The Schramlhaus, built around 1700, stands in Freyung. Today it is the oldest rural homestead in the town and, in its original form, is among the oldest in the district of Freyung-Grafenau. The Wolfstein Local History Museum is housed in the Schramlhaus. Its collections include more than one hundred original, well-preserved examples of reverse glass painting, which is considered sacred folk art. The building’s history and its craftsmanship therefore offer two different ways to explore the district’s cultural history.

Activities for Families and Culture Enthusiasts

Near Neuschönau, the treetop walk is part of the Lusen National Park Centre. At the animal enclosure there, visitors can learn about the national park and its native wildlife. A practical point of reference for families with young children: the circular trails are suitable for children who cannot yet manage long distances. This makes it easier to plan this nature experience as part of an outing.

The Gabreta Archaeological Adventure Park features reconstructed buildings modelled on original Celtic structures and symbolic of Celtic artefacts from the hill of Paul Freund. Practical activities are also part of the visit: bread baking is included in the visitor programme. As programme details may change, it is best to check this offering before your visit. Expert-guided tours about Celtic life can also be booked.

Choose the Right Accommodation for Your Trip

Prioritise the places that matter for your trip, then compare the starting points that best suit your route planning.

Discover More Places in Freyung-Grafenau

Discover more destinations: Hinterschmiding, Mauth, Neureichenau, Neuschönau, Thurmansbang, Waldkirchen, Schöfweg, Röhrnbach, Perlesreut, Zenting, Philippsreut, Saldenburg, Freyung, Grafenau, Spiegelau, Haidmühle, Ringelai, Grainet, Hohenau, Jandelsbrunn, Schönberg, Innernzell, Sankt Oswald-Riedlhütte, Eppenschlag, Fürsteneck and Sankt Oswald.

To the main travel overview: Bavaria.