MTB-Region Fränkische Schweiz

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Spectacular scenery coupled with a sporting challenge

The Franconian Switzerland region is characterised by the swift transition from rocky cliff formations to meandering valleys, and from wooded plateaus to brightly coloured fields. Its many attractions, both natural and man-made, make it an enthralling backdrop for fans of mountain biking.


Three of the four routes begin in Heiligenstadt in Upper Franconia. Two of them are circular, passing Lake Heiligenstadt and some unspoilt landscapes with a rich cultural heritage on their way to Buttenheim (north-east) and Veilbronn (south-west) respectively. The third route resembles a figure of eight and runs via Melkendorf and Herzogenreuth. These are scenic trails; to take in the magnificent panoramas of the hills of Franconian Switzerland all you need to do is raise your eyes above your handlebars – or you could feast them on the many cultural and natural highlights, including historical picture-book villages, impressive rock formations and the shy deer that you meet along the way. The fourth route, which begins further south-east with an up-and-down woodland trail, covers 37km from Pegnitz to Pottenstein and back. If time permits, it's well worth breaking off to see the Zwergenhöhle (dwarves' cave), the ruins of Hollenberg Castle, a derelict chapel and Pottenstein Castle, before continuing on to the imposing cliff formations of mount "Kleiner Kulm“. All routes run past tourist attractions as well as places where you can stop and eat, and try regional specialities such as bread baked in a wood-fired oven.
The region also has one of the highest concentrations of breweries in Germany.