Oberviechtach: A History of Gold and Trails

Oberviechtach combines a long history of gold with options for hiking and cycling trips. Local information gives these activities different dimensions and can help you plan your trip.

A History of Gold and Guided Hikes

Since the 14th century, Oberviechtach has been one of Bavaria’s leading places for searching for gold and precious metals. The GOLD educational trail leads to traces of gold in the Oberviechtach area. The theme of gold can thus be explored from two perspectives: as a historical account of the search and via a named educational trail. The Oberviechtach Tourist Information Office offers guided hikes that include gold panning. The historical search for gold and gold panning on a guided hike offer different ways to engage with the subject: one through local history, the other through an activity on offer. If you plan to take part, contact the Tourist Information Office directly for dates and current availability; details may change.

Hiking and Cycling

The Eisenbarth Trail is a 6.7 km circular hiking trail following in the footsteps of Doctor Eisenbarth. The start and finish are on the Bavarian-Bohemian Friendship Trail, beyond the arched bridge; the trail is marked with a 7. The 7 indicates the trail marking, while 6.7 km is the length of the circular route. As route information may change, check the current trail description before setting off. The Bavarian-Bohemian Friendship Trail passes Oberviechtach and offers cross-border cycling along a former railway line all the way to the Czech Republic. The trails therefore have different features: the Eisenbarth Trail is defined by its length, circular route, and marking, while the former railway line and cycling connection to the Czech Republic characterize the Friendship Trail.

Schwandorf: Landscapes and Trails in the District

The district of Schwandorf is a holiday destination in the Upper Palatinate Forest in Bavaria. The Upper Palatinate Lake District in the district of Schwandorf is a region shaped by water and varied landscapes. The gneiss at Hochfels in the district of Schwandorf was included in Bavaria’s list of the 100 most beautiful geotopes. The Wald- und Heidelandschaft nature reserve provides a valuable refuge for species that cannot survive in more densely vegetated and nutrient-rich habitats. Thus, in the regional context, landscapes, geology, and protected nature add further distinct topics.

The Weiher Cycle Route is around 9 kilometers long, fully signposted in both directions, connects Schwandorf with Lake Murner See, and passes through the Charlottenhofer Weiher nature reserve. The BAXI Museum Line 8402 in the district of Schwandorf provides transport to the Open-Air Museum of the Upper Palatinate. Check the timetable details before traveling. The two services serve different purposes: the Weiher Cycle Route is a cycling connection, while the BAXI Museum Line 8402 provides transport to the Open-Air Museum of the Upper Palatinate.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Oberlangau, Teunz, Winklarn, Wernberg-Köblitz, Teublitz, Neunburg Vorm Wald, Schmidgaden, Bruck in der Oberpfalz

Go to the overview of destinations: Schwandorf.