Pfahlweg

The Pfahl, a geological rarity, is a reef-like quartz rock vein that runs almost dead straight through the Bavarian Forest over a length of around 150 km. Mostly running underground, it emerges to the surface in some places in a very striking and dominant way. The picturesque and idyllic trail runs along this rock formation. The Pfahlwanderweg trail leads from Thierlstein (Opf.) to Regen, with the Altrandsberg-Regen section being particularly worthwhile. For long stretches, the Pfahlwanderweg is identical to the Pandurensteig (marking: black sword on a red background. The Pfahlwanderweg can be followed as a long-distance hike or - in conjunction with well-marked local hiking trails - can be explored in several stages as circular hiking trails. Moosbach, Prackenbach, Viechtach, Ayrhof, Frankenried or Linden and Patersdorf can serve as "starting points". Fields, meadows and forests in constant alternation make the route varied, with fine views and lots to experience to the right and left of the route often making you forget the destination. From the quartzite works in Altrandsberg, the path heads south-east, often lined with tall blueberry bushes. Moosbach remains on the right. Near the B 85 we see the white pile wall, a crucifixion group invites us to meditate. The path now crosses the B 85, makes a sharp bend to the east of the Förchenbühl and runs along beautiful forests, often with wide views, to Prackenbach. Initially ascending, it reaches what is probably the most impressive point at the top, the bizarre rock formations in the "Großer Pfahl" nature reserve. Here, display and information boards provide background information. At the viaduct, you have the option of descending to Viechtach on the left. The hiking trail turns back to the other side of the B 85 and leads over to the heights where the road to St. Englmar branches off. The St. Anton chapel is also located here on the brightly shining quartz ridge. The trail continues along a narrow path through pine woods. Shortly after Schlatzendorf, a pretty Kneipp facility offers welcome refreshment. Through the romantic Hofpfahl nature reserve, we reach Ayrhof (with one of the few chapels dedicated to St. Afra) and soon reach Frankenried and Linden. The B 85 is crossed again, the path runs along the edge of the forest to Patersdorf and down to Neumühle. The Bannholzwälder forest picks us up and accompanies the Pfahlweg to Fratersdorf, where we cross back over to the other side of the B 85. After the colorful forest chapel of Eckersberg, the quartz quarries near March once again impressively show the pile formations. Through meadow valleys, we hike around the Ochsenberg in the direction of Regen, where we find the impressive end of the hike in the glass forest designed by glass artist Rudolf Schmid in front of Weißenstein Castle on the quartz rock.