In the heart of Germany, where verdant landscapes meet outdoor adventure, two forests in Rhineland-Palatinate stand out as some of the most beloved destinations for nature enthusiasts. According to a recent report by Merkur.de, the Pfälzerwald and Soonwald have made their mark on a ranking of the country’s top forests, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
The travel company Fit Reisen conducted an extensive analysis to determine the popularity of forests across Germany. They evaluated various factors, including Google search volume, average ratings on Google Maps, and the number of Instagram posts featuring the respective forests. This comprehensive approach led to the creation of a ranking that encompasses 136 forests nationwide.
Among these, the Pfälzerwald, recognized as the largest contiguous forest area in Germany, secured the 16th spot. Spanning approximately 18,000 hectares, it boasts an impressive average rating of 4.6 stars based on 68 reviews on Google. The forest garnered a search volume of 7,900 and has been featured in 275,625 Instagram posts, culminating in a total score of 306 out of a possible 408 points. The Pfälzerwald is not just a visual delight; it offers a variety of picturesque hiking trails, with five of the most scenic routes highlighted by the editorial team.
Meanwhile, the Soonwald, located in the Rhein-Hunsrück district, claimed the 19th position with a total score of 299 points. This forest received an impressive 4.8-star rating from 17 reviews on Google, alongside 700 search queries and 6,649 Instagram posts. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Soonwald for its exceptional hiking paths, cycling routes, and various attractions, including the breathtaking Nahe-Skywalks, which provide stunning views of the Nahe Valley.
While Rhineland-Palatinate has made a notable appearance in the rankings, the undisputed champion of Germany’s forests is the Steigerwald in Bavaria, which took the top spot with a score of 364 points. Nestled between the cities of Nürnberg, Schweinfurt, Würzburg, and Bamberg, the Steigerwald is a paradise for outdoor fans, offering a rich biodiversity that includes a mix of ancient beech and mixed forests. This area is not only a haven for hikers and cyclists but also attracts wine enthusiasts, given its reputation for fine viniculture.
Following closely is the Oberpfälzer Wald, which straddles the border between Bavaria and the Czech Republic, landing in second place with 343 points. This region is celebrated for its untouched nature, drawing thousands of tourists each year. The travel company Fit Reisen highlighted the numerous beautiful trails along rivers and through dense forests, allowing visitors to marvel at the diverse flora and fauna.
In third place, the Spessart, which extends across both Bavaria and Hesse, scored 342 points. Known for its ancient trees that are over 400 years old, the Spessart is considered a paradise for nature lovers and hikers alike.
Bavaria’s dominance in the ranking is further evidenced by the inclusion of several other forests in the top ten. The Perlacher Forst, located near Munich, secured the sixth position, while the Siebentischwald, often referred to as the “green lung” of Augsburg, came in seventh. The Bavarian Forest, recognized as Germany’s oldest national park, earned the eighth spot, showcasing its appeal for both summer hiking and winter snowshoeing.
The Zauberwald, with its enchanting landscapes, ranks 13th, while the Forstenrieder Park, situated southwest of Munich, takes the 25th position. Other notable mentions include the Odenwald at 30th, the Frankenwald at 39th, and the Veldensteiner Forst at 41st. The ranking concludes with the Paterzeller Eibenwald at 84th, the Kempter Wald at 106th, and the Deisenhofer Forst at 115th, with Forst Kasten rounding out the list at 128th.
With a total of 136 forests evaluated, this ranking not only highlights the diverse natural landscapes across Germany but also underscores the importance of these green spaces for recreation, relaxation, and biodiversity. Whether it’s the expansive trails of the Pfälzerwald or the serene beauty of the Soonwald, these forests offer a perfect escape for those looking to reconnect with nature.
As more people seek outdoor experiences, the popularity of these forests is likely to grow, drawing nature lovers from across the globe to explore the rich biodiversity and stunning scenery that Germany has to offer. The findings from Fit Reisen serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving these natural treasures for future generations to enjoy.
