Fichtelsee lies in the northern part of Fichtelberg at an elevation of about 750 metres; Schneeberg and Ochsenkopf frame the lake. Fichtelberg brings together a striking landscape feature, seasonal activities and local history. A stay can start by the water, on the trails, or by exploring the traces of mining and motoring history.
Fichtelsee and seasonal activities
In summer, Fichtelsee is a popular place for swimming. In winter, when temperatures are suitable, an ice surface is prepared beside the lake. If you are planning your stay around either of these activities, check local conditions before travelling: swimming is a summer activity, while the ice surface depends on the temperatures.
The barefoot sensory trail starts at the visitor car park in Fichtelberg-Neubau. Its two loops cover about 1.5 kilometres through shady woodland by the lake. The approximate distance and route along the water provide a practical guide for planning a walk in this landscape.
Hiking, cycling and winter sports
Fichtelberg’s marked hiking trails pass clear streams, woodland meadows and rock formations on their way to regional viewpoints. Seven Fichtelberg Siebenstern hiking trails lie at the foot of the Ochsenkopf. Art, crafts, nature and the environment are described along the trails and explained on a hiking map. A hike starting in Fichtelberg can also lead to the sources of the Weißmain and the Fichtelnaab.
Nordic walking routes and mountain bike trails are also available in Fichtelberg, as are horse-riding opportunities. Availability from local riding providers may vary. Another option is the paved roller-ski track in Fichtelberg-Neubau: it is located at the Bleaml Alm winter sports centre and is around 2.6 kilometres long. In summer, it is used for roller-ski training and inline skating. It can also serve as a cycling link between two long-distance cycle routes. As route connections may change, check the latest cycling information before planning a ride.
In winter, a 2.5-kilometre night-skiing trail with snowmaking facilities and lighting is available at the Fichtelberger Bleaml-Alm. Check current snow and lighting conditions before visiting. The roller-ski track’s summer use and winter sports on the trail are two distinct seasonal activities at the same winter sports centre.
Mining, vehicles and village history
The Gleißinger Fels visitor mine is in Neubau, a district of Fichtelberg. It is said to be the world’s only accessible silver-iron mine and has a 500-year mining history. Mining played a decisive role in the development of Neubau and was an important source of livelihood for residents until the middle of the 20th century. Visitors are given a tour of the accessible level and shown a documentary about the history of mining; what is offered may depend on operating conditions.
The German Vehicle Museum Fichtelberg combines an automobile museum with an outdoor aircraft exhibition and a special exhibition in Hall II. The collection includes classic cars, prototypes, racing cars, motorcycles, aircraft and helicopters. Its composition may change over time. The museum therefore offers a different focus from Gleißinger Fels: here, vehicles and aviation take centre stage; there, it is the history of mining in Neubau.
The Mühlgütl Village Museum in Neubau preserves a log building dating from 1790. The surviving farmstead includes a cellar, living room, bedroom, stable and small-animal shed. These rooms and agricultural spaces give the museum visit a tangible connection to historic rural life.
Regional cuisine
Regional examples of Fichtelgebirge cuisine include Fichtelgebirge trout, Schäufala, sauerbraten, asparagus and mushroom dishes, game dishes and venison sausage. Which of these appear on a menu varies from one inn to another. Nature trails, seasonal activities and local history thus offer different themes for a stay in Fichtelberg.
Discover more destinations: Ahorntal, Betzenstein, Pegnitz, Bindlach, Eckersdorf, Pottenstein, Weidenberg, Warmensteinach
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