Best attractions and places to see around Hetzles, a town in the Forchheim district of Germany, offers a blend of natural landscapes and historical sites. Situated on the edge of the Franconian Switzerland-Veldenstein Forest Nature Park, the area features prominent table mountains, unique tufa terraces, and traditional Franconian architecture. Visitors can explore a network of hiking and cycling trails that showcase the region's forests, rolling hills, and cultural landmarks.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Natural
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Hetzles.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Statue of St. Walburga, Walberla High Plateau in the Ehrenbuerg Nature Reserve, Kirchehrenbach, Franconian Switzerland, Franconia
12
1
The Ehrenbürg is one of the most popular destinations in Franconian Switzerland. With its double dome, it is framed by the communities of Kirchehrenbach, Leutenbach and Wiesenthau. The Walberla is the northern peak of the mountain and is at around 513 m.
9
0
The Sankt-Walburgis-Chapel is the namesake of the "Walberla-Berg". The chapel was already built in the 17th century. It is dedicated to Saint Walburga. The chapel, which was probably first mentioned in 1350, was originally made of wood. The current chapel was built in 1697 by the Lords of Wiesenthau. The bronze statue of Saint Walburga, which stands in front of the chapel and was inaugurated in 2000, is very striking.
13
0
In front of the chapel there is a sculpture of St. Walburga by the sculptor Ernst Steinacker with the inscription "God in your heart".
12
1
For me, the Walberla is the landmark of Forchheim and the region, easy to reach, a haven of peace to switch off, many unusual grasses and plants thrive in the nature reserve, so it's important to stick to the paths.
9
0
The chapel, visible from afar, was built in the 17th century. At the chapel door you can see inside through the narrow light cutout. Many 🕯️🕯️🕯️ were set up there. The bronze statue "Heilige Walburga" in front of the ⛪ is an eye-catcher. Especially nice during the evening☀️.
18
0
Excellent view in clear weather ☀️! The 3rd summit cross was ruined by storms and had to be rebuilt and set up.
13
0
360 degree all-round view. The view into the distance is phenomenal.
11
2
Hetzles is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the Lillach Tufa Terraces, a rare natural phenomenon where water has formed impressive limestone terraces over millennia. Another highlight is the prominent Hetzleser Berg, a table mountain known for its scenic views and the 'magical forest world' of the Kopfeichenweg. The region is also part of the Franconian Switzerland-Veldenstein Forest Nature Park, offering picturesque forests and rolling hills.
Yes, the area offers several historical and cultural points of interest. On the Walberla Plateau, you'll find St. Walburga's Chapel and Statue, a religious building dating back to the 17th century. The village of Hetzles itself features charming old half-timbered houses and the St. Laurentius Church, which was formerly part of a fortified church. The Hetzleser Berg also has historical significance with its ancient ring wall and fortifications.
Hetzles and its surroundings are excellent for hiking, with trails ranging from easy to moderate. Popular spots include the paths around the Lillach Tufa Terraces, which offer serene natural beauty. The Walberla Plateau, including the Rodenstein Summit, provides routes with magnificent views. You can find various hiking options, including circular walks, by exploring the Hiking around Hetzles guide.
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the Walberla Plateau. The View of the Wiesent Valley from the Walberla offers a phenomenal 360-degree vista. Additionally, the Rodenstein Summit (Ehrenbürg — South Peak) provides another excellent vantage point to enjoy the surrounding landscape after your ascent.
Yes, the area offers family-friendly options. The path along the Lillach Tufa Terraces is well-developed with rest areas, and the Lillach Spring features a picnic area and is described as a fantastic playground for children. The 'magical forest world' of the Kopfeichenweg on Hetzleser Berg also provides an engaging environment for younger explorers.
The Walberla Plateau, also known as Ehrenbürg, is a significant landmark. Here you can visit St. Walburga's Chapel and Statue, a historic site with a bronze statue of Saint Walburga. The plateau also features the Rodenstein Summit, offering magnificent views. It's a popular destination for hiking and enjoying the expansive view of the Wiesent Valley.
The Lillach Tufa Terraces are a rare natural monument formed over thousands of years by lime-rich spring water. The water precipitates lime, creating unique terraced formations. You can visit them by following the well-developed path along the Lillach, which includes several rest areas. The Lillach Spring, where water flows beautifully from under a stone, is also part of this area and offers a picnic spot.
Beyond hiking, the region around Hetzles is well-suited for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling trails, including sections of the Franconian Way of St. James. For specific routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Hetzles guide. There are also dedicated Running Trails around Hetzles for those who enjoy jogging.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning panoramic views, especially from the Walberla Plateau, and the unique natural beauty of the Lillach Tufa Terraces. The serene environment and well-maintained paths for hiking are also frequently praised. Many enjoy the blend of natural landscapes with historical sites like St. Walburga's Chapel, making for a diverse and engaging experience.
The region is beautiful throughout the year, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with milder temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Spring, especially, can be ideal for seeing the Lillach Tufa Terraces with more water flow and lush greenery. The area is also known for its cherry blossom season, which adds to its charm.
While many trails in the region involve some steps or varied terrain, some sections, particularly around the Lillach Tufa Terraces, are described as well-developed. One highlight, St. Walburga's Chapel and Statue, is categorized as wheelchair accessible, suggesting some level of accessibility for visitors.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: