On fine summer days, long queues of cars wind their way through picturesque Pottenstein – it is not for nothing that it is the tourist centre of Franconian Switzerland. This little town nestled amongst the rocks lies in the Püttlach Valley, where several narrow valleys converge; it has been a state-recognised climatic health resort since 1976.
📜 History
Towering above the town is the 1,000-year-old Pottenstein Castle, one of the oldest castles in Franconia; its history dates back to around 1070. Its most famous guest was Saint Elizabeth of Thuringia, who found refuge here in 1228 after being expelled from Wartburg Castle – the Elisabethweg still commemorates her today. Pottenstein was granted town rights around 1323.
👀 Sights & experiences
- 1,000-year-old castle with castle museum
- Executioner’s Museum
- Adventure rock with summer toboggan run
- Himmelsleiter
- Felsenbad – heated open-air rock pool dating from 1926, one of Germany’s oldest open-air pools
- Nearby: Devil’s Cave (see Landscape → Caves)
🍺 Brewery
Mager Brewery Inn (see Breweries).
Eternal Adoration (Festival of Lights)
On 6 January, the hills around Pottenstein are brightly lit. After hours of prayer in St Bartholomew’s Church, an impressive procession winds its way through the village, whilst logs are set alight on the surrounding hills, creating a magical atmosphere. The procession begins as darkness falls.