Attractions and Places To See in Schwandorf - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Schwandorf, a town in Bavaria, Germany, offer a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty. The region is characterized by its picturesque lakes, such as the Steinberger See and Murner See, and the scenic Naab River. Visitors can explore a diverse landscape that includes forests and unique geological formations, providing opportunities for various outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see in Schwandorf
- The most popular attractions is Lake Steinberg, a lake that serves as a central point for water sports, relaxation, cycling, and hiking. A well-developed path circles the lake, featuring information boards about the region's nature and history.
- Another must-see spot is Art and Water Trail, a trail featuring unique mosaic artworks created by local artists and community members. This trail offers two circular routes of 4 km and 6 km around the Hammersee, connecting visitors with nature and the lake.
- Visitors also love Lake Murner, a lake with a beautiful circular route suitable for families. It offers numerous swimming opportunities and features a lookout tower providing views over the lake and the adjacent nature reserve.
- Schwandorf is known for its diverse natural landscapes, including lakes and forests, alongside historical sites and unique trails. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from water-based activities to cultural walks.
- The attractions in Schwandorf are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 950 upvotes and over 160 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Lake Steinberg
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View of Lake Murnersee
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Observation Tower at Murner See
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Lake Steinberger
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Jakob Brewery Inn at Hammersee
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Adventure Sphere at Steinberger Lake
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Erlebnispark Steinberg am See Observation Tower
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If you want to go down with the carpet slide, then you have to think about your carpet when you climb up. There is none above. You have to carry it up with you.
Still very interesting to know:
On the way up there are a few stations where you can put your skill/balance to the test (but can also be bypassed).
Arrived at the bottom:
There are also 4 ball tracks here. The balls can be bought in the restaurant for €2.50. There are two lanes per ball track that you can compete against each other. The wooden balls have a logo which is also a nice souvenir.
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Wild Wake Park, Lake Steinberger
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Bavarian-Bohemian Friendship Cycle Path
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Art and Water Trail
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Popular around Schwandorf
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Cycling on the Bavarian-Bohemian Friendship Trail
Other adventures in Schwandorf
Tips from the Community
Lake Steinberger Lake Steinberger is part of the Upper Palatinate Lake District and, with an area of 1.84 km², is the largest lake in the Upper Palatinate. It was named after the municipality of Steinberg am See. It is 1.98 km long, 1.4 km wide, and has a maximum depth of 50 meters. The Schreckerbach stream feeds and drains the lake. After the Bavarian lignite industry ceased mining operations in the mid-1980s, the open-cast mine "Steinberger See" was flooded by reducing the water level. Remaining mining equipment was demolished and still lies on the lakebed. Two small, wooded islands also remain, which now divide the lake into a northern and a southern section. In the following decades, tourism developed at Lake Steinberger, bringing a degree of economic growth to the region. In addition to the Steinberger Yacht Club (SYC), founded in 1987, the area now boasts a sailing school, a water ski lift, a boat rental, a leisure park for families and children, a surf club, and most recently, an adventure golf course and a roughly 40-meter-high wooden "adventure sphere" with viewing platforms, an obstacle course, and a giant slide. Numerous restaurants, inns, and cafés complement the leisure offerings. A water rescue station has been established for the safety of visitors. Due to the increasing improvement in water quality and visibility in recent years, Lake Steinberger has become one of the most popular diving areas in the Upper Palatinate. Like all lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, which originated from lignite mines, the water is acidic due to leaching. Because of the ongoing improvement in water quality, fish populations are steadily increasing. Perch and the occasional pike have been observed most frequently. The water is very clean; on windless days, visibility is possible to a depth of at least 10 meters. Occasionally, the tops of dead trees can be seen on the bottom. According to the ordinance issued by the Schwandorf District Office on August 8, 2002, the entire Steinberger See is open for diving. Especially in summer and winter, very good visibility (up to 20 meters) has been possible in recent years. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de
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The Mariental inn is only open on weekends. The next place to stop for refreshments would be in Ramspau G.H., near the church.
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Beautiful lake and a lovely circular path (approx. 8 km) with many idyllic places to stop for a break.
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Very nicely done and varied.
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Beautifully laid out cycle path on the former railway line Nabburg - Schönsee. No particular gradients.
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Really nice long-distance cycle path in good condition
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Very nice recreation area near Schwandorf
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Schwandorf?
Schwandorf is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Lake Steinberg and Lake Murner, both offering well-developed paths for walking and cycling, and opportunities for water sports. The picturesque Naab River is ideal for cycling and nature walks, while the Upper Palatinate Forest provides scenic trails for adventurous hiking. Don't miss the tranquil Eixendorfer See for boat trips.
What historical sites and landmarks can I visit in Schwandorf?
Schwandorf boasts several historical landmarks. Explore the 12th-century Schwandorf Castle, admire the Gothic architecture of St. Jakob Church, and see the ancient Blasturm for views over the old city. The Felsenkeller-Labyrinth, Bavaria's largest rock cellar labyrinth with a 500-year history, offers fascinating guided tours. Also, visit the Wallfahrtskirche Unserer Lieben Frau vom Kreuzberg and St. Johannes der Täufer in Kronstetten for their distinctive architecture and Baroque furnishings.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Schwandorf?
Yes, Schwandorf offers many family-friendly options. Both Lake Murner and Lake Steinberg have circular routes suitable for families, with swimming opportunities and playgrounds. At Lake Steinberg, the "Adventure Sphere" (Erlebnisholzkugel) is the world's largest walk-in wooden adventure ball with a viewing platform, and the Wild Wake Park offers water skiing and wakeboarding. The Art and Water Trail around the Hammersee features unique mosaic artworks created by local artists, making for an engaging walk.
What outdoor activities and routes are available near Schwandorf's attractions?
The region around Schwandorf is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for various activities. For running, explore trails around Lake Murner and Lake Steinberg. Gravel biking is popular with routes like the Schwarzachtal Cycle Path. Hiking options include the Eixendorf lakeside path and the Knight and Ghost Trail in the Upper Bavarian Forest Nature Park; find more details in the hiking guide. Many routes offer beautiful views of the lakes and surrounding nature.
Where can I find the best viewpoints in Schwandorf?
For elevated perspectives, visit the historic Blasturm, which offers good views over the early walled city. The Schwammerling, an illuminated viewing mushroom, also provides an elevated perspective of Schwandorf's old town. At Lake Murner, a lookout tower provides views over the lake and its adjacent nature reserve. The "Adventure Sphere" (Adventure Sphere at Steinberger Lake) and the Erlebnispark Steinberg am See Observation Tower at Lake Steinberg also offer panoramic views.
What cultural experiences does Schwandorf offer?
Schwandorf provides several cultural insights. The Oberpfälzer Freilandmuseum offers a glimpse into traditional rural life in the Upper Palatinate with reconstructed houses and workshops. The Stadtmuseum Schwandorf, located within medieval town walls, delves into the town's history. The Oberpfälzer Künstlerhaus (Kebbel-Villa) is a cultural site with a diverse program of art and culture. Don't forget the unique Eulenspiegel Fountain in the city center.
Can I enjoy water sports in Schwandorf?
Absolutely. The Steinberger See and Murner See are central to water sports and recreation in the region. At Lake Steinberg, you can find the Wild Wake Park for water skiing and wakeboarding. Both lakes offer ample opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and other water-based activities, especially during the warmer months.
Are there accessible attractions in Schwandorf?
Many of Schwandorf's natural attractions, particularly the paths around the lakes, are designed to be accessible. For instance, the circular routes around Lake Murner and Lake Steinberg are well-developed and generally level, making them suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Information boards along these paths enhance the experience for all visitors.
When is the best time to visit Schwandorf for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Schwandorf for outdoor activities largely depends on your interests. For water sports and swimming at the lakes, the summer months (June to August) are ideal. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling through the Upper Palatinate Forest and along the Naab River, with beautiful scenery and fewer crowds. If you're interested in the Schwandorf Christmas Market, plan your visit for the holiday season.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions in Schwandorf?
Beyond the main highlights, Schwandorf offers some unique spots. The Felsenkeller-Labyrinth provides a fascinating underground exploration of historical beer storage. The Art and Water Trail around the Hammersee is a charming and artistic walk. The Eulenspiegel Fountain in the city center is a whimsical sculpture, and the Schwammerling offers a unique illuminated viewpoint over the old town.
Where can I experience local Bavarian cuisine in Schwandorf?
You can indulge in traditional Bavarian cuisine at various local restaurants and beer gardens throughout Schwandorf. Look for establishments offering dishes like bratwurst, sauerkraut, and pretzels, often paired with local Bavarian beer. The Jakob Brewery Inn at Hammersee is a great option, known for its brewery restaurant and beautiful beer garden directly on the Hammerseerundweg.
Are there activities to enjoy in Schwandorf during winter?
Even in winter, Schwandorf has attractions to offer. If you visit during the holiday season, the Schwandorf Christmas Market provides a festive atmosphere with lights, traditional food, and crafts. For indoor relaxation and wellness, the Bulmare center offers various sauna and swimming facilities, along with spa treatments, perfect for unwinding on colder days.
Most popular routes in Schwandorf
Most popular attractions in Schwandorf
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