Top 20 Natural Monuments around Kalchreuther Forst
Best natural monuments around Kalchreuther Forst are found within a region characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and meandering rivers. This area, on the edge of the Franconian Switzerland-Veldenstein Forest Nature Park, features diverse natural landscapes. It offers several notable natural monuments and geological formations. The terrain includes unique rock formations, gorges, and riverine ecosystems.
Best natural monuments around Kalchreuther Forst
- The most popular natural monuments is Wöhrder Lake, a lake that serves as a local recreation area. It…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Wöhrder Lake
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Along the Pegnitz River
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Bitterbach Gorge
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Przewalski Horses in Tennenloher Forest
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Beautiful Fountain
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Wöhrder See, Nuremberg Wöhrder See, the youngest of Nuremberg's waterways, is a popular local recreation area in the heart of the city, providing a natural habitat for endangered species. It is not a natural lake, but was created by damming the Pegnitz River, which flows through it. The idea for an inner-city lake existed as early as the 1930s. The project was approved for implementation in October 1959. In addition to the City of Nuremberg, the State Water Management Authority and the Middle Franconia District were involved in the planning and construction. Recreational concerns were not the only priority in the design. The lake is also part of the extensive flood protection measures after the Second World War. Construction work began in 1968 with the Lower Wöhrder See and continued until 1972. The sand trap above the waterway was built between 1972 and 1975. The final construction phase of the Upper Wöhrder Lake was completed in 1981. Text / Source: Nürnberg Infos.de / Nürnberger Nachrichten https://nuernberginfos.de/gewaesser-nuernberg/woehrder-see.php
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The beautiful fountain stands on the edge of Nuremberg's main market square. It is shaped like a Gothic church spire and is one of Nuremberg's main attractions and is also part of the Historical Mile. Legend has it that whoever turns the golden ring on the fountain's grille will have three wishes granted. There is another black ring on the opposite side of the fountain. Some people claim that this is the real lucky ring and that the "golden" one is the tourist ring... Just try it out! 😉
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The myth of the brass ring, which is seamlessly forged into the iron grate, also has a legend. It is said to have got in like this: Master Kuhn, who built the grate around the well, had a daughter called Margret, who was courted by his apprentice. But because he did not want to give his child to a poor boy, he forbade this courtship and threw him out. It is said to have said something like: "It will come to nothing! It will come to nothing, just as you can make the rings on the well grate turn!" The master then went away and the apprentice wanted to prove that he could do something and secretly made the ring. Then he cut it open, inserted it into the grate, soldered, hammered and filed until you could no longer see the seam. Then he left town and never came back. When the master returned home, he realized that he had been too strict. He regretted being thrown out and would have liked to have the clever apprentice back and given him his daughter too, but it was too late and Margret cried her eyes out. One of the rings is considered a lucky charm; according to legend, whoever turns it will be blessed with children. The brass ring is usually thought to be the lucky charm, but many Nuremberg residents believe that the iron ring is the "real ring" and therefore the lucky charm. According to another legend, the sculpture of the fountain was actually commissioned as the top of the tower of the Frauenkirche (also on the main market), but this was rejected due to the lack of a way to lift it.
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Master Kuhn, who built the gate around the fountain, had a daughter called Margret, who was courted by his apprentice. But because he did not want to give his child to a poor boy, he forbade this courtship and threw him out. The apprentice is said to have said: "It will be as little use as you can make the rings on the fountain gate turn!" The master went away on a trip and the apprentice wanted to prove that he could do something and secretly made the ring. Then he cut it open, inserted it into the gate, soldered, hammered and filed until the seam was no longer visible. He then left the city and never returned. When the master returned home, he regretted being thrown out and would have liked to have the clever apprentice back and give him his daughter too. The brass ring is usually considered to be the lucky charm, but many Nuremberg residents believe that the iron ring is the "real ring" and therefore the lucky charm.
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A walk around the lake can be a lovely family walk. A total of 6.5 km with no elevation gain and a lovely, varied route.
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The “Beautiful Fountain” is a gem on the main square of Nuremberg and dates back to the end of the 14th century.
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The real "lucky" ring is in the west of the gate. West is where Norma is roughly 😉. Oh yes... and the ring is also supposed to make you return to Nuremberg as a foreigner (tourist) 😍
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During the Second World War, the Beautiful Fountain was encased in a concrete shell and survived the air raids on Nuremberg unscathed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique natural monuments to explore in Kalchreuther Forst?
Kalchreuther Forst offers a variety of unique natural monuments. You can visit the Bitterbach Gorge, a dramatic geological formation cut into the Burgsandstein. Another interesting spot is the Jungfernsitz (Maiden's Seat) Rock Formation, known for its chair-like cavity and local legends. The Teufelsbadstube (Devil's Bathtub) Gorge is also a significant geotop worth exploring for its impressive features.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in Kalchreuther Forst?
Yes, several natural monuments in Kalchreuther Forst are suitable for families. The Wöhrder Lake offers a lovely, varied route with no elevation gain, perfect for family walks. The Pegnitz River paths are also family-friendly, providing scenic routes along the riverbanks. Additionally, the Przewalski Horse Enclosure in Tennenloher Forest is a fascinating place for families to observe wild horses and peacock goats.
What kind of terrain can I expect when visiting the natural monuments in Kalchreuther Forst?
The terrain around Kalchreuther Forst is diverse, characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and meandering rivers. While some areas like the Wöhrder Lake offer flat, easy paths, other natural monuments like the Bitterbach Gorge and Stettenberger Schlucht feature more dramatic landscapes with steep sides, carved by water over millennia. Expect a mix of easy walking paths and more challenging trails, especially in gorge areas.
When is the best time to visit the natural monuments in Kalchreuther Forst?
The best time to visit depends on what you wish to experience. Spring is particularly beautiful when the Kalchreuther Kirschgärten (Cherry Gardens) are in bloom, offering picturesque landscapes. For gorges like the Bitterbach Gorge, spring after the snowmelt is ideal to see water flowing. Summer is great for enjoying the recreational areas like Wöhrder Lake, though some gorges might have less water. Autumn offers vibrant foliage, and winter can provide a serene, snowy landscape for hiking, though some paths might be more challenging.
Are there hiking trails near these natural monuments?
Yes, Kalchreuther Forst is excellent for hiking. Many natural monuments are integrated into hiking routes. For instance, the Teufelsbadstube Gorge has a scenic 4.3 km circular route. You can find various hiking options, including easy, moderate, and difficult trails, around the region. Explore more hiking routes in the area by checking out the Kalchreuther Forst guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
Beyond exploring the natural monuments themselves, the Kalchreuther Forst region offers a range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling, gravel biking, and mountain biking on numerous trails. For cycling, consider routes like the 'Wilder Sebalder Reichswald – Nuremberg City Park loop'. Gravel biking options include the 'Pear Tree with Rest Area – Forest Trail in Middle Franconia loop'. Mountain bikers can explore trails such as the 'Kahlberg Trail – Marsh Valley loop'. Find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Kalchreuther Forst, Gravel biking around Kalchreuther Forst, and MTB Trails around Kalchreuther Forst guides.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Kalchreuther Forst?
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse natural beauty and tranquility. Many enjoy the varied routes around Wöhrder Lake, noting it as a great local recreation area. The dramatic features of the Bitterbach Gorge are also highly praised, with visitors noting its changing appearance throughout the seasons. The serene paths along the Pegnitz River and the unique experience of seeing Przewalski horses also receive positive feedback.
Are there any historical or cultural sites among the natural monuments?
While primarily natural, some sites have historical or cultural significance. The Beautiful Fountain, though man-made, is recognized as a natural monument and is a significant Gothic-spired landmark with local legends. The Jungfernsitz rock formation also carries local folklore, adding a cultural layer to its natural appeal. The Kalchreuther Forst itself has a rich history, being on the edge of the Franconian Switzerland-Veldenstein Forest Nature Park.
Where can I park when visiting the natural monuments in Kalchreuther Forst?
Parking availability varies by specific natural monument. For popular spots like Wöhrder Lake and the Bitterbach Gorge, there are usually designated parking areas nearby, especially at trailheads or access points. For more remote locations like Stephansquelle or Stettenberger Schlucht, you might need to park in nearby villages or designated forest parking lots and walk a bit further. It's advisable to check specific access points for each monument before your visit.
Are there any natural springs or rivers to see in the area?
Yes, Kalchreuther Forst is home to several important water features. The Gründlach River, particularly the section east of Heroldsberg, is recognized as a geotop for its geological importance and crucial role in local biodiversity. You can also find the Stephansquelle (Stephan's Spring), a natural spring that feeds the nearby Teufelsgraben (Devil's Ditch), offering a serene environment.
Are the natural monuments in Kalchreuther Forst accessible by public transport?
Accessibility by public transport varies. Major towns surrounding Kalchreuther Forst, such as Heroldsberg and Kalchreuth, are typically served by local buses or regional trains. From these points, you might be able to reach some natural monuments directly or with a short walk. However, for more secluded spots, public transport might only get you part of the way, requiring further hiking or cycling. It's recommended to check local transport schedules and routes for your specific destination.
What are the Kalchreuther Kirschgärten?
The Kalchreuther Kirschgärten (Cherry Gardens) are a significant natural attraction in the region, especially in spring. While not a geological formation, these cultivated cherry gardens offer panoramic views when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, creating a highly valued and picturesque landscape for locals and visitors alike.
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