Exploring Franconian Switzerland: A Scenic Adventure with Friends

Franconian Switzerland: A Friday Filled with Exploration

Today was a fantastic blend of history, culture, and, of course, great beer. Franconian Switzerland continues to impress with its diverse offerings, and I’m thrilled to share the highlights of our day. From exploring ancient castles to enjoying local cuisine, it was a day well spent with good friends.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Arivo Aparthotel Restaurant. It's always a good start to the day to have a good meal before heading out to explore. After breakfast, we set off to Streitburg Castle.


Discover budget-friendly luxury at Arivo Aparthotel in Forchheim, with easy access to local attractions, dining, and fitness facilities.

Streitburg Castle: A Step Back in Time

The drive to Streitburg Castle was scenic, with the autumn colours in full display. The castle itself is perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Although largely in ruins, Streitburg Castle provided a fascinating glimpse into the Middle Ages. As a brewery tour guide, I find myself drawn to the history of every place I visit. I couldn't help but imagine what life was like here centuries ago. The views from the top were stunning, and it was easy to see why this location was chosen for a fortress.

“Sometimes, the best way to appreciate the present is to immerse yourself in the past.”

We spent a couple of hours exploring the ruins, taking photos, and soaking in the atmosphere. Olivia was particularly fascinated by the stonework, while the others enjoyed the views. It's amazing how much history is packed into this relatively small region. It was interesting to learn that Streitburg Castle is located directly opposite the ruins of Neideck Castle.

Lunch at Schwanenbräu Ebermannstadt

After our historical adventure, it was time for lunch. We drove to Ebermannstadt to have lunch at Schwanenbräu Ebermannstadt. Schwanenbräu is a traditional brewery and restaurant, offering a taste of local Franconian cuisine. The restaurant itself had a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for a midday meal. I was eager to try some of their traditional dishes. I opted for the Schäuferle mit Klößen & Sauerkraut, a local pork shoulder dish with dumplings and sauerkraut. It was hearty and delicious, exactly what I needed after a morning of exploring. The others tried various dishes, including the Krenfleisch mit Klößen & Preiselbeeren and Leberknödelsuppe. Everyone was pleased with their meals, and the portions were generous.

Of course, no visit to a Franconian brewery is complete without sampling the beer. I tried their Pils, which was crisp and refreshing. Olivia went for the Hefeweizen, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Schwanenbräu has been brewing beer since 1812, and their experience shows in the quality of their brews.


Discover authentic Bavarian flavors at Schwanenbräu Ebermannstadt - a delightful restaurant and hotel in the heart of Bavaria.

Maximiliansplatz: A Cultural Interlude

With our bellies full, we headed to Forchheim to explore Maximiliansplatz. This central square is the heart of Forchheim, surrounded by beautiful buildings and bustling with activity. The square is named after King Maximilian I Joseph of Bavaria, whose statue stands proudly in the center.

We strolled around the square, admiring the architecture and soaking in the atmosphere. There are lots of shops and cafes around the square, making it a great place for people-watching. I learned that Maximiliansplatz in Bamberg was considered as a parade ground if the Bavarian King ever visited. Apparently, he never did.


Discover the historical beauty of Maximiliansplatz in Bamberg - a vibrant square rich in culture, architecture, and local charm.

Brauereigaststätte Hebendanz: A Perfect End to the Day

To cap off our day, we visited Brauereigaststätte Hebendanz, a local brewery and pub. This place is a true gem, with a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of beers. The brewery has been family-owned since 1579, a testament to their commitment to quality and tradition.

I sampled their Export Hell, a classic Franconian lager. It was smooth, flavourful, and the perfect way to end the day. The others tried various beers, including their Edel Pils and Märzen Gold. We also enjoyed some Brotzeiten, traditional German snacks, with our beers. It was the perfect way to relax and reflect on our day of adventures.


Discover the heart of Bavarian culture at Brauereigaststätte Hebendanz, a brewpub serving authentic food and craft beers in Forchheim.

As we sat there, enjoying our beers, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow. We're heading to Bamberg to explore Vegbereitung - Vegan Streetfood Bamberg and Flafal Amiral. I am looking forward to exploring the culinary scene in Bamberg and trying some vegan street food. We might even check out World of Nightlife in Nuremberg.

Franconian Switzerland continues to surprise and delight. The combination of history, culture, and great beer makes it a truly special place. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!