Bavaria - National Park

There are still some peaceful little corners of paradise, far from the crowds. In the "Bayerischer Wald", the Bavarian Forest, at the start of the off-season, hikers and leisurely strollers will find what they are looking for.

Here, there are no hordes of tourists clicking their trekking poles, and it is only on foot that you can reach some mythical peaks such as Rachel or Lusen. A network of some 300 km of walking paths and 200 km of cycle paths, allows you to discover these vast forests and reach the heights while listening to birdsong and the whispering of rivers. Some of the trails play as a “border crossing” between Bavaria and the Czech Republic, where the park is extended by that of the Bohemian Forest.

Created in 1970, Germany's first national park covers more than 24,000 hectares. Most of its trees tell a story that is several hundred years old. Along the border, during the warlike invasions of the Hussites and Pandora, the forests served as barriers to the advancement of enemy troops. 100 years later, we marvel at these spruces, firs and other majestic beeches.

As early as 1915, protective measures were taken to preserve this natural heritage. Don't imagine now that everything is beautiful and idyllic in a national park! Its immense forests evolve without human intervention. Storms, attacks by harmful insects (such as bark beetles), acid rain and other damage caused by game leave their marks. But at the foot of the skeletons of spruces, young trees and bushes abound. Moreover, even dead trees have their role, serving as shelter for multiple insects and birds.
Themed trails provide a better understanding of natural processes. Parkrangers are also happy to provide interesting information to visitors.

Luna's children

There are some 90 species of birds and some lynxes make their home here - but don't expect to cross their path on a hike!
To do this, head to the "park in the park" where, on approximately 250 hectares, live about forty animals. The course is even accessible in winter and can be done in a wheelchair or with strollers.

Video extract: Luna and her two cubs

The visit is always quite exciting, especially when there are some special babies to see like those of the black bear Luna! But you will alos love the wolves, bisons, wild horses and moose.

As the park is not a zoo, the enclosures delimited in the heart of the forest are very large, allowing their inhabitants to live (almost) in total freedom. It therefore happens that some hide in the vegetation. But patience - and silence - usually always pays off! Don't forget the binoculars!
To complete the entire course (7 km), allow 3 to 4 hours to have time to observe the animals quietly. Allow an hour and a half for the two variants of 3 km.

In the peaks

Near the Hans-Eisenmann-Haus, the very interesting information center, is the start of a very special trail: the "Baumwipfelpfad" leads straight up to the treetops!

Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. (6 p.m. in October, 3:30 p.m. in November)

Prices: € 11 / € 9 (6 to 14 years old)

Video in the peaks

In complete safety and without having to use acrobatics! To experience more chills, you can test your sense of balance and overcome your fear of heights.
Being at the height of the treetops is impressive. An unusual: with a simple push of the hand you can move the majestic trunks! The highlight is the panoramic tower from which the whole region is visible. A little extra: the entire route is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.