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Germany
Hesse
Regierungsbezirk Kassel
Waldeck-Frankenberg

Frankenau

Attractions and Places To See around Frankenau - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Frankenau are located in the Waldeck-Frankenberg district of Hesse, Germany. Situated at the southern edge of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, the area offers a diverse natural landscape. Visitors can explore ancient beech forests, the expansive Edersee Lake, and various historical and cultural sites. Frankenau serves as a base for experiencing both natural features and notable landmarks.

Best attractions and places to see around Frankenau

  • The most popular attractions is Edersee Dam, a man-made monument that forms the second largest reservoir in Germany by area. This imposing structure is over 100 years old, 48 meters high, and 400 meters long, offering extensive views of the surroundings.
  • Another must-see spot is Knorreichenstieg Trail, a trail through a forest. This hiking trail leads directly along the lake shore, providing views of the Edersee and a unique "jungle" landscape.
  • Visitors also love View of Waldeck Castle and Lake Edersee, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas. This location provides a perspective of Waldeck Castle and the surrounding landscape of Lake Edersee.
  • Frankenau is known for its natural features, historical sites, and cultural attractions. The region offers a variety of experiences, from exploring national parks and lakes to visiting historical landmarks and local museums.
  • The attractions around Frankenau are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 5000 upvotes and over 3000 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Edersee Dam

Highlight • Monument

For me one of the most beautiful dams and always worth a trip. I love coming here on my tours.

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Edersee Dam

Highlight • Monument

A bike ride to the Edersee is always worthwhile. It is particularly beautiful here in summer, because the deciduous forests on the banks are beautifully green. On hot days, the reservoir is great for swimming. You can simply find your favorite spot on the bank to relax and cool off in the water. If you prefer to swim on a supervised beach, the DLRG beach is recommended.

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View of the Edersee Dam

Highlight • Viewpoint

A highlight in every season

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Great view of Waldeck Castle and a great bike path right along the lake!

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Affolderner See

Highlight • Lake

Fantastic view over the lake. The bike and footpath leads directly along the lake. Numerous benches invite you to take a nice break.

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Tips from the Community

Anette
April 5, 2023, Edertalsperre

The imposing dam forms the second largest reservoir in Germany in terms of area and the third largest in terms of volume. The wall is now over a hundred years old, 48 meters high and 400 meters long. It is always freely accessible and offers a great view of the surroundings.

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Beautiful view of the imposing barrier wall

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Great view over the Edersee to the castle

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Great view of Waldeck Castle and a great bike path right along the lake!

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A really impressive building that you should have seen. All information at www.edersee.com

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Peter 😎
October 4, 2021, Affolderner See

Happy to visit with a great photo object.

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Nice spot with a view of the lake.

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Peter 😎
September 6, 2021, Edertalsperre

A nice destination for hikers or cyclists.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural attractions can I explore around Frankenau?

Frankenau is situated at the southern edge of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, offering ancient beech forests and diverse landscapes. You can visit the expansive Edersee Lake, known for water activities and its impressive Edersee Dam. Another beautiful spot is Affolderner See, ideal for scenic views and breaks. The region also features the Lorfebach River and various forest trails.

Are there challenging hiking trails near Frankenau?

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Knorreichenstieg Trail offers a unique 'jungle' landscape along the Edersee shore, requiring sure-footedness and sturdy footwear. The Kellerwaldsteig also leads through one of Germany's largest beech forests, providing a more demanding hiking experience. For more options, you can explore various challenging routes listed in the Running Trails around Frankenau guide, some of which are suitable for difficult hikes.

Where can I find easy walking trails suitable for all skill levels?

Frankenau offers several easy walking trails. The Ederhöhenweg and the Märchenlandweg are particularly suitable for families. Additionally, the Easy hikes around Frankenau guide lists routes like the 'Bärenmühle in the Lengelbachtal' loop or the 'Kellerwalduhr Nature Museum' loop, which are rated as easy and perfect for a relaxed stroll.

What are the best viewpoints to experience the scenic landscape?

One of the most popular viewpoints is the View of Waldeck Castle and Lake Edersee, offering panoramic vistas of the castle and the surrounding lake. The Edersee Dam itself provides extensive views of the reservoir and its surroundings. Many trails, including the Knorreichenstieg Trail, also offer continuous views of the Edersee.

Can I go cycling around Frankenau?

Absolutely! The area around Frankenau is excellent for cycling. A bike ride to the Edersee is highly recommended, especially in summer when the forests are green. The Cycling around Frankenau guide features various routes, including the 'Lake Edersee – Edersee Dam loop' and the 'Eder Cycle Route loop', catering to different difficulty levels.

What historical landmarks are worth visiting near Frankenau?

You can explore the evocative Waldeck Castle Ruins, which offer a glimpse into medieval history and provide spectacular panoramic views. Frankenau's Historic Market Square is also a charming spot to experience the town's social atmosphere. Other historical points of interest include the Huhnsmühle, one of five old mills, and the Quernstkirche.

Are there cultural sites or museums to learn about the region's heritage?

Yes, the Arche-Region Kellerwald focuses on preserving ancient domestic animal breeds and promoting insect-friendly flower meadows, featuring an 'Arche-Schiff' information center. The Backhaus in Allendorf/Hardtberg is a lovingly restored bakery showcasing old traditions. Additionally, the Heimatmuseum Allendorf/Hardtberg provides insights into rural life, regional history, and agricultural traditions.

What is the best time of year to visit Frankenau for outdoor activities?

The summer months are particularly beautiful for visiting Frankenau, as the deciduous forests around Edersee Lake are lush and green, making it ideal for swimming, hiking, and cycling. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant temperatures and stunning natural scenery, especially for hiking through the forests.

Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Frankenau?

Frankenau and its surroundings offer several family-friendly options. The Kellerwald-Edersee National Park has trails like the Märchenlandweg, which is suitable for families. The Edersee Dam area is also considered family-friendly, with opportunities for swimming and exploring. Nearby, a wild animal enclosure allows observation of native animals like red deer and wild boars.

Are there dog-friendly walking options around Frankenau?

Many of the natural trails and paths around Frankenau are suitable for walks with dogs, especially within the Kellerwald-Edersee National Park and around the lakes. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash in protected areas and near wildlife enclosures. The numerous forest trails offer ample space for dog-friendly excursions.

Where can I observe wildlife in the Frankenau area?

The Kellerwald-Edersee National Park is a prime location for wildlife spotting, being a haven for native animals. Visitors can observe red deer, lynxes, and wild boars in a dedicated wild animal enclosure near Edersee Lake. The untouched wilderness of the park provides opportunities to encounter various species in their natural habitat.

What is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/147599" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Edersee Dam</a> and what can I do there?

The Edersee Dam is a man-made monument, over 100 years old, 48 meters high, and 400 meters long, forming the second largest reservoir in Germany by area. It offers extensive views and is freely accessible. You can hike on the jungle trail, cycle around the lake, or simply relax by the water. Shipping is also available, and there are restaurants and a treetop path nearby.

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