Mystical rock formations in Franconian Switzerland often blend the world of myths and legends with nature. This is also the case here, near Wohlmannsgesees. These enchanted rock formations have inspired many people; it is speculated that they were a Celtic place of worship for the Druids. However, this has so far neither been scientifically proven nor disproved. What is certain is that one senses a special aura in this place.
🪨 Geology
What looks here as though it were piled up by human hands is purely the work of nature. The Franconian dolomite has fractured into individual blocks along two fissure systems; these blocks, two to five metres high, are arranged in long rows and have become covered in moss over the centuries. Some of the stones feature bowl-shaped indentations, often interpreted as the Druids’ ‘sacrificial bowls’, but which were in fact formed by weathering.
🔮 Name and Legend
The site was not given the name ‘Druidenhain’ until 1912, by a hiking guide written by Karl Brückner. Even back then, the unusual rocky landscape captured the imagination, and the notion that Celtic priests had once had their place of worship here quickly took hold. Some also speak of an ancient gathering place for witches. There is no evidence to support any of this; other explanations range from a collapsed cave to a medieval quarry.
🚗 How to get there
There is a car park very nearby; from there, the rest of the route is easily covered on foot. Hiking trails lead there from Wohlmannsgesee or Kanndorf; by bike, you can take the FO 11 cycle path. By car, you can reach the car park via the B470, coming from Pottenstein or Forchheim.