Grafenau: Cross-Country Skiing, Town History and Nature

Cross-Country Skiing and Trails

Winter sports include groomed classic and skating trails. The difficulty ranges from easy to intermediate; there are also various ways to combine trails and connect to the national park area. The stated range provides an initial guide. As snow conditions vary, check them up to date before planning a specific trail.

The Dreifaltigkeitsweg south of Grafenau offers a different kind of trail: it combines hiking, reading and reflection, and runs mostly along natural forest paths. So, alongside cross-country skiing, you can choose a route with a thematic focus and a different character.

For cycling tours, Grafenau’s network of paths can be combined with the cycle path network in Bavarian Forest National Park; it connects directly to the national park cycle route. This connection relates to the cycle path network. Grafenau is also right next to Bavarian Forest National Park, founded in 1970 as Germany’s oldest national park.

Salt Trade and Historic Town Square

Grafenau owed its rise to the historic salt trade. The town was located directly on the Golden Trail, also known as Gulden Straß. This is one of Europe’s oldest and most important trade routes; salt was transported along it from the Upper Innviertel to Bohemia. The trade route gives the town a specific historical connection, which is also reflected in the themes of the town museum.

At the historic town square, the Säumer and Luitpold fountains, the statue of Nepomuk, the colorful townhouses and the old town hall invite you to stroll and linger. A town walk takes you, among other places, to the town square, the statue of Nepomuk, the Säumer fountain, the Old Town Hall and the last remnants of the old town wall. You can explore the walk on your own, on a guided tour or interactively.

Museums with Different Themes

The museums focus on different subjects: The Bauernmöbel Museum explores painted farmhouse furniture and former domestic culture in the Bavarian Forest. The Snuff Museum is devoted to the custom of taking snuff and displays exhibits and information about its history. The Town Museum presents local history, from old trade routes to the everyday lives of earlier generations. This lets you choose between domestic culture, customs and a broader look at the town’s history.

Friday Green Market

The Green Market is held at the town square every Friday morning, offering fresh regional products to sample and take home. If the market is important to your plans, confirm the date locally before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Jandelsbrunn, Schöfweg, Waldkirchen, Röhrnbach, Saldenburg, Haidmühle, Mauth, Philippsreut.

Back to the regional travel overview: Freyung-Grafenau.