Holiday in Franconian Switzerland

About Franconian Switzerland

Franconian Switzerland in Upper Franconia, nestled between Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Bayreuth, is one of Germany's oldest tourist regions and fascinates with a romantic landscape of bizarre rock formations, deep river valleys, over 1,000 caves, and more castles and castle ruins per square kilometer than any other region in Europe. The name comes from travelers of the 19th century who found the dramatic landscape reminiscent of Switzerland. The Wiesent Valley and the Trübach Valley form the scenic heart of the region: rugged limestone cliffs rise from dense beech forests, crystal-clear streams wind through narrow valleys, and on almost every rock ledge, the remnants of a medieval castle can be found. Castle Rabenstein houses a falconry, Castle Pottenstein majestically overlooks the town of the same name, and the ruins of Neideck with its distinctive tower are the landmark of the region. The Teufelshöhle near Pottenstein, the Bing Cave near Streitberg, and the Sophien Cave near Ahorntal are among the most impressive show caves in Germany. Climbers appreciate the over 6,500 climbing routes on the limestone cliffs, canoeists paddle on the Wiesent, and hikers explore the extensive network of trails. Franconian Switzerland is also Germany's number one brewery region: with around 80,000 inhabitants, there are over 70 breweries, mostly producing small batches of spicy cellar beers and unfiltered lagers. A visit to a beer cellar in summer with freshly tapped beer, a snack, and a view of the rocky landscape is one of the most beautiful Franconian experiences.