Rhön Mountains

The Rhön Mountains are a low mountain range in central Germany spanning parts of Hesse, Bavaria and Thuringia, formed largely from volcanic basalt plateaus. The range is characterised by open moorland, rounded hills and clear panoramic ridgelines.

Peaks are modest by alpine standards, with the highest point at Wasserkuppe reaching roughly 950 metres; the area is popular for hiking, cycling and gliding. Traditional agricultural landscapes and protected nature areas create a mix of recreational and conservation values.

Parts of the Rhön are designated for landscape protection and conservation to preserve the moors, species-rich grasslands and cultural land-use patterns. Small towns and villages provide access points and trailheads across the range.

The Rhön sits in central Germany between the states of Hesse, Bavaria and Thuringia, within easy driving distance of regional cities such as Fulda and Bad Kissingen.

• Elevation and activities: Highest point reaches about 950 metres at Wasserkuppe, making the Rhön a low mountain range suitable for hiking and gliding activities.
• Landscape and protection: The region features open moors and basalt plateaus of volcanic origin and is protected in parts as a biosphere reserve and recreational landscape.

What to See #

• Wasserkuppe: Wasserkuppe, the highest summit in the range at about 950 metres, known for gliding and panoramic viewpoints.
• Kreuzberg and basalt hills: Kreuzberg and other basalt hills that form a patchwork of moors, grassland and wooded slopes across the range.