At the northern edge of the village of Schnelldorf, Erlensee Lake lies in a forest clearing. As a swimming lake with a large sunbathing lawn on the eastern shore, it is a clear focus for spending time outdoors. The municipality of Schnelldorf also has trails of different lengths and themes: from short routes to a 97-kilometre trail connecting Ansbach and Schnelldorf.
These highlights give your trip planning a sense of direction without turning the different trails into a single route.
Erlensee Lake and outdoor trails
Swimming, barbecuing, playing and fishing are listed as leisure activities at Erlensee Lake. Check before your visit whether your preferred activity is currently possible. Swimming is at your own risk. The large sunbathing lawn on the eastern shore offers a clearly designated place to lie back and relax.
Hiking trails by length and character
The European Watershed Trail runs from Ansbach to Schnelldorf and is 97 kilometres long. A much shorter option in the municipality is the Ameisenweg (Ant Trail): it is 4.0 kilometres long, well maintained and easy to walk. The official route description says it is suitable for family outings with children and wagons.
The Salamanderweg (Salamander Trail) is 3.8 kilometres long and follows well-maintained, family-friendly paths that are also suitable for strollers. The Ameisenweg and Salamanderweg are similar in length, so the route features described may matter more when choosing between them than the small difference in distance. Please also note that conditions on the Salamanderweg may vary.
Those interested in landscapes and nature can enjoy the Fischweg (Fish Trail), a family hike with lovely views of the Ampfrachtal valley. The starting point is the hiking car park at Ampfrachsee Lake. The trail passes the Ampfrachsee nature reserve and its large biotope. It is not fully accessible; take this limitation into account when planning.
The Igelweg (Hedgehog Trail) also has a clearly defined route: it starts at the town hall in Schnelldorf and runs via SonnenstraĂźe and the old sports ground to St. Bonifazius Church. From the town hall, it also connects the village with long-distance hiking trails towards Wildenholz. Some sections are not accessible.
Medieval traces and places in the municipality
Well-preserved hollow ways, visible from the Salamanderweg, point to medieval transport routes. The Burgstall Wildenholz offers a different glimpse into history: its impressive rampart and moat show traces of a medieval fortification.
Other notable buildings and historical traces are found in various villages in the municipality of Schnelldorf. In the centre of Oberampfrach, the former schoolhouse and former vicarage are worth seeing. Unterampfrach has the remains of a moated castle and a village mill. These places add historical points of interest to the trails and landscape, without needing to be treated as stops on any of the routes mentioned.
From May to October, the church in Wildenholz is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for visits and quiet reflection; pilgrims on the Way of St. James are welcome. Check the seasonal opening hours before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Gebsattel, Wettringen, SchillingsfĂĽrst, Dietenhofen, Wilburgstetten, Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Heilsbronn, Insingen.
Return to the main travel overview: Ansbach.
