More than 65 kilometres of cross-country skiing trails through the forests of the Weinsbergerwald give Bärnkopf a clear focus on cross-country skiing. At the same time, paths lead to a summit, a castle ruin and striking rock formations; insights into forest history and a seasonal swimming facility add other points of interest. This makes it easy to tailor your stay to your interests: Would you like to focus on cross-country skiing, go hiking or learn about the history of the forest? Bärnkopf has also been awarded the “Luftkurort” designation.

Cross-country skiing in the Weinsbergerwald

The network of trails covers more than 65 kilometres and leads through the forests of the Weinsbergerwald. There are groomed trails for both classic and skating styles. So the length of the network is not the only factor to consider when planning: deciding which of the two styles you prefer can also help you decide whether to make cross-country skiing the focus of your trip. The two styles offer a clear choice within the described trail network.

Hiking paths with different points of interest

The Weinsbergweg leads to the summit of the 1,041-metre-high Weinsberg and passes a castle ruin. Along the same route, you will also pass the impressive Saubergmauern rock formations and a balancing rock. The summit, ruin and rock formations provide several distinctive landmarks and make the forest landscape an essential part of the route’s appeal.

The “Opfersteinweg” circular hiking trail is numbered 62 and starts in the centre of Bärnkopf, by the parish church. The two route descriptions therefore differ in their points of reference: the Weinsbergweg focuses on its summit destination, while the Opfersteinweg is defined by its circular route and starting point in town. When comparing hikes, you can use these details as a guide instead of treating both routes as similar outings.

Discover wood and forest history

The Woodcutters’ Museum presents the development of the Weinsbergerwald, from its development to today’s forestry. Old saws, axes and other tools offer a vivid insight into working in the forest. The focus is therefore not only on the landscape itself, but also on how it has been used and how that use has evolved.

The adventure areas with the bread oven and the wood-themed trail tie in with this topic, offering a hands-on way to experience wood, the forest and life in the Weinsbergerwald. The purpose-built dollhouse also houses a collection of around 1,400 exhibits. These different attractions offer a range of ways to explore the subject—from forestry and its tools to the dollhouse exhibits.

Summer activities and Annatag

During the swimming season in the summer months, Schlesingerteich offers a sunbathing lawn, toilet facilities, a beach volleyball court and a kiosk. These facilities are available during the swimming season. If you are planning to visit the pond, plan your outing accordingly and check in advance whether it is open for swimming.

Annatag, with its traditional fair, is also part of Bärnkopf’s traditions; it is traditionally held on 26 July. If you would like to plan your trip around the fair, check the event date in advance. The seasonal highlights are distinct: at Schlesingerteich, swimming-season opening hours matter, while for the fair, it is the event date.

Discover more destinations: Arbesbach, Rappottenstein, Rosenau Castle, Schwarzenau, Municipality of Groß Gerungs, Kottes, Bernreith, Griesbach

For the main travel overview: Zwettl.