Our top sights
Do you need suggestions for your Steinwald holiday? Don't miss our cultural and culinary highlights.
01
BURGRUINE WEISSENSTEIN
Past and present, decay and eternity, nature and geology: the ruins of Weißenstein Castle are rightly considered the landmark of the Steinwald.
Situated at an altitude of 858 meters, the rock castle was built in harmony with nature.
The woolsack rocks form a union with the mighty fortress, providing perfect natural protection against attackers.
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02
OBERPFALZTURM
When locals talk about the "Platte," they're referring to the highest elevation in the Steinwald Nature Park at 946 meters above sea level. Up there stands the Oberpfalzturm (Upper Palatinate Tower), which offers arguably the most beautiful view in northern Upper Palatinate. In good weather, you can even see as far as the Czech Republic! Although it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Steinwald, you'll sometimes find yourself completely alone on the Platte, allowing you to enjoy the panoramic view in peace and quiet. The climb through the forest is manageable for everyone. Those with more experience even choose to cycle to the Oberpfalzturm (Upper Palatinate Tower).
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03
ROCK FORMATIONS IN THE STEINWALD NATURE PARK
The landscape, as the name "Stone Forest" suggests, is characterized by rocks and forests. Over decades, wind and weather have shaped the hard, primary rock into impressive cliffs. Particularly spectacular examples are the Zipfeltannenfelsen and the 15-meter-high Hackelstein. Behind every rock lurks a fascinating legend. For example, highwaymen are said to have once wreaked havoc on the Räuberfelsen (Robber's Rock).
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04
WALDECK CASTLE RUINS
On the basalt cone of Waldeck's Schlossberg hill stands a castle ruin, one of the oldest in Upper Palatinate. The former fortress was captured and destroyed in the War of the Spanish Succession around 1704, but was later partially rebuilt. The climb to the ruins is worthwhile for the magnificent panoramic view over the Steinwald Forest and the Kemnath region alone. From the top, there is a particularly beautiful view of the other volcanic vents in the region, including the Rauher Kulm and Armesberg.
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05
WALDNAABTAL NATURE RESERVE
The Waldnaab River has created a unique nature reserve between Falkenberg and Windischeschenbach. The river valley of the approximately 12-kilometer-long "Upper Palatinate Grand Canyon" is lined with extraordinary flora and fauna, with granite cliffs up to 50 meters high along the trail and in the riverbed. Hiking and cycling here are a delight!
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06
FOREST HOUSE AND DEER ENVIRONMENT
Several paths lead up to the peaks of the Steinwald. But your route becomes truly special if you choose the trail that passes the Waldhaus with its adjacent red deer enclosure. Children, in particular, are fascinated by the impressive stags that can be admired there.
In the restored Waldhaus, you can enjoy cake, coffee, and hearty Bavarian snacks while learning more about the Steinwald. The former forester’s house gained fame as the filming location of the novella “Krambambuli” by Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach, starring Tobias Moretti.
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07
BURG FALKENBERG
It appears monstrous: Falkenberg Castle. It sits on a mighty rocky outcrop high above the houses of the market town. After three years of renovations, the castle reopened its doors in November 2015. Immerse yourself in the castle's more than 1,000-year history, host events there, or stay overnight in one of the eight double rooms with magnificent views. While you're there, be sure to plan a hike in the nearby Waldnaab Valley. There, you'll walk along the Waldnaab River, which is dotted with enormous granite boulders.
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08
GEO-CENTER AT THE CONTINENTAL DEEP DRILLING
The GEO Center at the Continental Deep Drilling Site (KTB) is an environmental education station with a focus on geosciences, located near Windischeschenbach. The visitor center is aimed at everyone interested in the Earth, its exploration, and its use.
On the drilling site stands the world’s highest land drilling rig, which was used to drill a 9,101-meter-deep hole into the Earth’s crust of the Upper Palatinate. It is currently the deepest hole in the world.
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09
LAND DER TAUSEND TEICHE
The Tirschenreuth district, where the Stone Forest is located, is nicknamed the "Land of a Thousand Ponds." In fact, there are around 4,700 bodies of water. The pond basins line the towns of Tirschenreuth, Wiesau, Kemnath, and Mitterteich. Several hiking and cycling trails lead through this water-rich region, providing a glimpse into the pond farming of the approximately 900 pond owners. The fish has been bred and eaten in our region for many centuries. The carp is so important to us that we even dedicate festivals and magnificent sculptures to it. Right in the heartIn the Tirschenreuth pond basin, you'll find the 20-meter-high observation tower. The so-called Himmelsleiter (Stairway to Heaven) offers a perfect view over the Waldnaa floodplain.
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10
DIE ZOIGL-TRADITION
A real treat for all beer lovers is Zoigl. This bottom-fermented, unfiltered beer has a long-standing tradition in the northern Upper Palatinate. It is brewed by licensed brewers in the communal breweries of Falkenberg, Mitterteich, Windischeschenbach, Neuhaus, and Eslarn.
A six-pointed star on the gable of the taverns indicates that Zoigl beer is currently being served there. Combined with hearty snacks and good music, a visit to a Zoigl tavern promises an unforgettable experience!
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Would you like to take a guided tour?
Discover our most beautiful sights with a guide and learn fascinating background information about their history and culture.
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Set out with a professional to explore hidden corners and secret spots, and hear a few interesting anecdotes and legends along the way.
