September 4, 2025, 1:00 pm | Read time: 5 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 mountain or the “Devil’s Cave” itself.

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. At 65 meters high and 130 meters long, the walkway offers a wide view over Franconian Switzerland. It is open according to the operators from late March to November. The floor is made of fine mesh, allowing you to see below–a small challenge for those afraid of heights. 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 to the valley.

Summer Toboggan Run

Right next to the Skywalk are two more highlights: At Erlebnisfelsen Pottenstein, you’ll find two summer toboggan runs. You can choose between the “Frankenrodel” and the “Hexenbesen.” On the Frankenrodel, you race down the hill in tight curves at up to 40 km/h over about 1,000 meters. The ride on the “Hexenbesen” is a bit different: The seats hang under the rails, swinging from left to right during the ride, which might give some visitors quite a thrill.

Rock Pool

If you’re looking to cool off in the summer months, a visit to the Rock Pool is a must. Located near the Devil’s Cave in the Weihersbach Valley on the outskirts of Pottenstein, it stands out from other outdoor pools. Opened in 1926, it is not only Bavaria’s oldest outdoor pool, as reported by the website “Franconian Switzerland,” but also unique in its setting: nestled between the limestone cliffs of Franconian Switzerland.

In addition to a large sunbathing lawn, there’s also a small beer garden, and while swimming, you get a great view of the steep rock wall. The water quality is also special, as the natural pool operates without chemicals. Instead, it is cleaned naturally through plant filters, microorganisms, and technical cycles.

Schöngrund Lake

Schöngrund Lake is also worth a visit. The reservoir, created in the 1940s, is located in the middle of the Pottenstein recreational area. While swimming is not possible here, there is a boat rental, seating along the shore, and small dining options. Thanks to its location in the Weihersbach Valley, numerous walking and hiking trails into the hilly surroundings start from here.

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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, and from the A73, you can reach Pottenstein via Forchheim or Ebermannstadt. Traveling by public transport is a bit more complicated but possible: Regional trains run to Pegnitz or Ebermannstadt, from where there are bus connections to Pottenstein.