September 4, 2025, 1:00 pm | Read time: 4 minutes

In Upper Franconia, just about 25 minutes from Bayreuth and in the heart of Franconian Switzerland, lies the small town of Pottenstein. Although it officially holds city status, its narrow streets and half-timbered houses give it more of a village feel. Besides its scenic backdrop, the town impresses with a diverse range of recreational activities.

The Best Tips for a Trip to Pottenstein

Devil’s Cave

One of the most famous attractions in Pottenstein is the Devil’s Cave. Located on the steep slope of the Weihersbach Valley, it is the largest stalactite cave in Franconian Switzerland and is even used for healing tunnel therapies. Tours take you along a roughly 1.5-kilometer circular path past impressive stalactite formations. The entrance itself is mystical: It lies on the slope of a wooded rock and feels like you’re entering the “Devil’s Cave” directly.

While waiting for the tour to start, it’s worth stopping by the café on the cave terrace. Inside, you’ll not only encounter impressive rock formations but also, according to the cave’s official website, a complete skeleton of a prehistoric cave bear. Good to know: The cave maintains a constant temperature of nine degrees Celsius year-round, so be sure to bring a jacket.

Skywalk

Just a few minutes from the Devil’s Cave is the Pottenstein Skywalk. Located 65 meters high and 130 meters long, the walkway offers a wide view over Franconian Switzerland. It is open and provides a challenge for those with a fear of heights, as the walkway is 65 meters high and 130 meters long. Along the way, interactive panels provide information about the region’s flora and fauna. A special feature is the large tube slide that leads directly from the Skywalk.

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Summer Toboggan Run

Right next to the Skywalk are two more highlights: At the Adventure Rock, you’ll find the Summer Toboggan Run. On the 1,000-meter-long track, you can race down the hill at speeds of up to 40 km/h through tight curves. The ride on the “Witch’s Broom” is a bit different: The seats hang under the rails, swinging from side to side during the ride, which might give some visitors a thrill.

Rock Pool

Another great stop is the Rock Pool. Located not far from the Devil’s Cave in the Weihersbach Valley on the outskirts of Pottenstein, it’s quite different from other outdoor pools. Opened in 1926, it’s not only Bavaria’s oldest outdoor pool, according to the website “Fränkische Schweiz,” but also unique in its setting: nestled among the limestone cliffs of Franconian Switzerland.

While swimming, you can enjoy a great view of the limestone cliff. The water quality is also special, as the natural pool is completely chemical-free, being purified naturally by plants. There’s also a large sunbathing lawn and a small beer garden for refreshments.

Schöngrundsee

The Schöngrundsee is also worth a visit. Although you can’t swim in this reservoir, located in the heart of the Weihersbach Valley and created in the 1930s, you can rent boats, relax on the shore, and enjoy small refreshment stands.

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Getting to Pottenstein

Pottenstein is easily accessible by car. From the A9, the Pegnitz exit leads directly into Franconian Switzerland via federal and state roads. It’s also possible to reach Pottenstein by public transport: Regional trains run to Pegnitz or Ebermannstadt, with bus connections available from there to Pottenstein.