The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Leuchtenberg

Leuchtenberg itself is home to the 674-meter-high Schlossberg, featuring the historic Leuchtenberg Castle. For more prominent elevations, the Steinwald Nature Park to the north offers the Platte (946 m), which hosts the 33-meter-high Oberpfalzturm for panoramic views, and the Mountain of the Ruins of Weißenstein (863 m). Within the broader Upper Palatine Forest Nature Park, you'll find the impressive basalt cone of Parkstein Hill, a remnant of ancient volcanic activity.

Yes, two significant pilgrimage sites are located on elevated points. The St. Barbara Pilgrimage Church on Eixlberg is a popular hiking destination, known for its Emmausklause offering refreshments. Another is the Pilgrimage Church of the Visitation of Mary (Mariä Heimsuchung), Fahrenberg, often called the “holy mountain of the Upper Palatinate,” which has been a pilgrimage site for over 800 years and includes a mountain inn.

The region is characterized by diverse natural features. The Steinwald Nature Park is famous for its unique granite formations, some with whimsical names like Katzentrögel and Saubadfelsen, shaped by millennia of erosion. The Upper Palatine Forest features the Parkstein hill, a basalt cone described by Alexander von Humboldt as the “most beautiful basalt cone in Europe,” showcasing crystalline pentagonal and hexagonal columns.

Many of the elevated points and their surrounding areas are suitable for families. The St. Barbara Pilgrimage Church on Eixlberg is considered family-friendly, offering a pleasant hiking destination with a place for a break. Similarly, the Pilgrimage Church of the Visitation of Mary (Mariä Heimsuchung), Fahrenberg is also categorized as family-friendly, providing both historical interest and amenities.

Leuchtenberg itself is known for the 674-meter-high Schlossberg, home to the impressive Leuchtenberg Castle. In the Steinwald Nature Park, you can explore the historic Weißenstein Castle ruins on the Mountain of the Ruins of Weißenstein (863 m). Additionally, the Schlossberg Tännesberg (692 m) is another historical site with castle remnants and offers great views.

For expansive panoramic views, head to the Platte mountain in the Steinwald Nature Park. Its summit features the 33-meter-high Oberpfalzturm, which provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. The Platte Summit Shelter is located at an altitude of 672 meters, offering a central point for a break.

The region around Leuchtenberg offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous MTB trails, including routes like the 'View of the Wolfslohklamm – Vierling Tower loop'. There are also many running trails, such as the 'Heller Stein – Lerau Valley loop', and gravel biking routes like the 'Waldnaab River – Waldnaab Bike Path loop'.

Yes, the area is rich with hiking opportunities. The Steinwald Nature Park is ideal for hiking, offering trails through its unique granite landscapes and forests. The broader Upper Palatine Forest also features numerous hiking trails, including sections of the 600-kilometer-long Goldsteig trail. Many of the highlighted peaks, such as Eixlberg and Fahrenberg, are popular hiking destinations themselves.

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty, geological interest, and historical sites. The panoramic views from points like the Oberpfalzturm on the Platte are highly rated. The unique granite formations in the Steinwald and the basalt cone of Parkstein are also popular. Additionally, the historical significance of places like Leuchtenberg Castle and the pilgrimage churches on Eixlberg and Fahrenberg add to the appeal, often combined with opportunities for a hearty snack and local beer.

Yes, for a less strenuous option, you might consider the Fischberg Summit (436 m). It offers a beautiful section that is not technically demanding, featuring a summit cross and a bench at its highest point, making it a pleasant and accessible elevated spot to visit.

Yes, several peaks offer amenities for visitors. Near the St. Barbara Pilgrimage Church on Eixlberg, the Emmausklause provides a perfect place for a break with snacks and local beer. At the Pilgrimage Church of the Visitation of Mary (Mariä Heimsuchung), Fahrenberg, you'll find the mountain inn and butchery Josef Weig. The Platte Summit Shelter also offers a good opportunity for a covered break or rest on the Platte mountain.