Stretching along Bavaria’s border with the Czech Republic, the Bavarian Forest is a spectacular region of low mountains protected within Germany’s first and largest national park. It encompasses the 1,456-metre-high peak of Großer Arber, the Regen River and several glacial lakes, as well as an extensive network of hiking and cycling trails.
Follow the walking trail that leads from Bodenmais to the summit of Großer Arber, which offers sweeping views across the Great Arbersee and Arberseewand. The Bavarian Forest National Park protects large tracts of Norway spruce, European silver fir and beech forests that provide habitat for Eurasian lynx, beavers and peregrine falcons.
You can explore the Bavarian Forest along the Crystal Road, a scenic touring route that features glass workshops and factories. Get a behind-the-scenes look at all stages of glass production while learning about the centuries-long traditions of glass art in the region.
Getting there
The Bavarian Forest can be accessed from the town of Ludwigsthal, which is connected to Munich by regular trains. Having your own vehicle is the easiest way of getting around the region while the Bavarian Forest National Park is best explored on foot.