Bavarian Forest

The Bavarian Forest is a low-mountain region in eastern Bavaria along the German-Czech border, characterised by dense conifer and mixed woodland, rounded peaks and glacially carved valleys. It forms a contiguous natural area with the Czech Bohemian Forest (Šumava) to the east.

Outdoor recreation is a primary draw, with extensive hiking and cycling networks, winter sports facilities and wildlife watching opportunities. The area includes protected zones and older-growth woodland areas where natural processes are prioritised.

Conservation efforts led to the creation of the Bavarian Forest National Park in 1970, which established zones of strict protection alongside managed forest and visitor facilities. Traditional forest industries such as glassmaking and timber have historically shaped local towns and villages.

The range lies in the state of Bavaria, in Germany’s southeast, and is accessible from regional centres such as Regensburg and the towns that fringe the park.

• Highest summit: Großer Arber reaches 1,456 metres and is the highest point in the Bavarian Forest, with trails and viewpoints accessible from nearby towns.

What to See #

• Bavarian Forest National Park: Bavarian Forest National Park, established in 1970 as Germany's first national park, preserves large tracts of native mountain forest and strict rewilding zones.
• Großer Arber peak: Großer Arber, the range's highest summit at 1,456 metres, offering marked hiking routes and an alpine environment within the forested massif.