Attractions and Places To See in Kerngebiet Im Nationalpark Bayerischer Wald - Top 20

The region is characterized by its untouched nature, following the philosophy of "Natur Natur sein lassen" ("let nature be nature"). You'll find prominent mountain peaks like Großer Rachel and Lusen, ancient old-growth forests, and unique natural monuments. Picturesque lakes such as Rachelsee, and historical klause (artificial dams) like Martinsklause, Sagwasser-Klause, Reschbachklause, and Steinbach-Klause are also part of the landscape. Don't miss the unique granite dome at the summit of Lusen, considered one of Bavaria's most beautiful geotopes.

Yes, you can discover the intriguing Glas Ark, a four-and-a-half-meter-long ship made of countless thin sheets of glass, located on the slope of the Lusen. This art project commemorates the region's traditional glass production. Additionally, while slightly outside the immediate core zone, the Museumsdorf Bayerischer Wald (Bavarian Forest Open-Air Museum) near Tittling showcases over 150 historical buildings.

For breathtaking views, head to the summits. Großer Rachel Summit offers extensive views across the Middle Bavarian Forest and into the Bohemian Forest, with the Alps visible on clear days. The Lusen Summit provides impressive vistas of the Bavarian Forest, and Großer Falkenstein Summit Cross rewards hikers with views towards the Großer Arber and the surrounding national park.

Absolutely. The Lusen Summit, with its many 'green' stones, is great fun for children to climb and explore. The Baumwipfelpfad Bayerischer Wald (Tree Top Walk) at the Nationalparkzentrum Lusen is also highly recommended, offering an accessible path up to 25 meters above the forest floor and a 44-meter-high tree tower, providing unique perspectives for all ages. Additionally, the Wild Animal Enclosures at visitor centers like Hans-Eisenmann-Haus allow for close encounters with native animals.

The region is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, hiking, and running. For example, there are challenging cycling routes like the 'Grosse Ohe – Racheldienst Hut loop' and easy hikes such as the 'Libelle Circuit - Barrier-free nature experience in the Großer Filz'. Explore more options in the dedicated guides for Cycling, Easy Hikes, and Running Trails in Kerngebiet Im Nationalpark Bayerischer Wald.

Yes, the Baumwipfelpfad Bayerischer Wald (Tree Top Walk) at the Nationalparkzentrum Lusen is designed to be accessible, allowing visitors to experience the forest from above. For hiking, the 'Libelle Circuit - Barrier-free nature experience in the Großer Filz' is an easy and barrier-free option, perfect for those with strollers or wheelchairs.

The Wild Animal Enclosures (Tier-Freigelände) at visitor centers like Hans-Eisenmann-Haus near Neuschönau offer extensive enclosures and aviaries where you can observe native animals of the mountain forest. The Bayerwald-Tierpark Lohberg is also a recommended site for seeing local wildlife such as elk, wolves, and lynx.

During the ascent of the Lusen, you can discover mystical and beautiful places such as the Teufelsloch, Martinsklause, and Himmelsleiter. These sites are steeped in local myths and legends, adding an element of wonder to your hike.

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views from the mountain summits, especially the panoramic vistas from Großer Rachel and Lusen. The unique natural spectacle of the granite dome on Lusen and the impressive old-growth forest areas are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the rewarding feeling after a strenuous climb, often followed by a stop at a cozy hut like the Lusen Shelter.

Yes, you'll find huts and shelters that offer opportunities to rest and refuel. The Lusen Shelter, for instance, is a quaint and cozy hut where you can enjoy a hearty snack and drinks after climbing the summit. The Großer Falkenstein also has an inn near its summit.

The region offers attractions year-round. Summer is ideal for hiking and cycling, with well-maintained trails to the summits. Winter also provides opportunities for hiking, especially to the Lusen Summit, which remains accessible. The changing colors of autumn make it a particularly scenic time for forest walks.