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Tretstein Waterfall: A Natural Jewel

Discover the enchanting Tretstein Waterfall near Gräfendorf, a natural monument offering a refreshing escape into the scenic beauty and geological wonders of the Bavarian Rhön.

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The Tretstein Waterfall, nestled between Gräfendorf and Dittlofsroda in the Bavarian Rhön, is a captivating natural monument. This enchanting waterfall sees the Eidenbach stream cascade down approximately 3 meters, hitting a sloping rock face, with the total height reaching about 6 meters. The surrounding area, a designated Geotope by the Bavarian Environment Agency, boasts unique geological significance, making it a valuable and rare regional asset. A short, scenic hike leads to the falls, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the region's flora and fauna. The refreshing coolness in summer and the icy spectacle in winter make it a year-round destination. The waterfall's immediate surroundings were renovated in 2010 by the local youth fire brigade, adding handrails, wooden bridges and steps to the trail, making it more accessible for visitors. A visit to the Tretstein Waterfall promises a tranquil escape into nature's embrace.

A brief summary to Tretstein-Wasserfall

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be slippery, especially after rain.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by the waterfall.
  • Combine your visit with a hike on one of the many trails in the surrounding Spessart forest.
  • Visit in winter to see the frozen waterfall.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Gräfendorf train station, walk towards the village center, following signs for Tretstein-Wasserfall. The walk to the start of the trail takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Once in the village, follow the signs towards Waizenbach and Michelau. The trail head is located near the road junction of Gräfendorf / Waizenbach / Michelau, next to a small parking area along the Waizenbach stream and the railway line. From the parking area, the walk to the waterfall is approximately 1 km and takes about 20-30 minutes. The path is well-marked but can be uneven in places.

  • Driving

    If driving, set your GPS to 97782 Gräfendorf, Germany. Limited free parking is available near the road junction of Gräfendorf / Waizenbach / Michelau, close to the trail head. From the parking area, follow the walking directions above to reach the waterfall. Parking is limited, especially during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    Gräfendorf is accessible by train via the Fränkische Saaletalbahn. From Gräfendorf train station, follow the walking directions above to reach the waterfall. A single train ticket from Gemünden am Main to Gräfendorf costs approximately €6-8. Ensure to check train schedules in advance.

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Discover more about Tretstein-Wasserfall

Tucked away in the idyllic landscape between Gräfendorf and Dittlofsroda, the Tretstein Waterfall presents a mesmerizing spectacle of nature's artistry. This hidden gem, often referred to as Trettstein-Wasserfall, is formed by the Eidenbach stream as it gracefully plunges approximately 3 meters before meeting a sloping rock surface. Including the cascade over the inclined rock and the smaller preceding steps, the entire height measures around 6 meters. The waterfall is a designated natural monument and a recognized Geotope by the Bavarian Environment Agency, highlighting its geological importance and regional rarity. The Tretstein Waterfall marks a brief, ravine-like incision of the Eidenbach into the Bunter sandstone environment. The Eidenbach flows into the Waizenbach after only a few hundred meters, also featuring smaller falls and steps along this short stretch. The Waizenbach itself soon joins the Fränkische Saale near Gräfendorf. The ravine has been designated as a valuable Geotope (Geotope number: 677R007) by the Bavarian State Office for the Environment. The geoscientific value of the waterfall is classified as significant and rare for the region. The journey to the Tretstein Waterfall is an experience in itself, with a well-maintained hiking trail leading through the enchanting forest. The path meanders alongside the stream, offering glimpses of the diverse plant and animal life that thrives in this protected environment. The soothing sound of the water accompanies hikers as they navigate the gentle inclines and cross small wooden bridges. The trail is secured with handrails and natural steps, making it accessible for most visitors. In 2010, the Gräfendorf youth fire brigade renovated the waterfall's surroundings. About 100 meters of the path were secured with a handrail, several wooden footbridges were renewed, and natural steps were incorporated into the slope. The waterfall lies in a ravine-like cut of the Eidenbach north of the Fränkische Saale. The stream has cut into red layers of red limestone and forms several smaller waterfalls, of which the Trettstein waterfall is the largest. Whether it's the refreshing coolness of summer or the magical ice formations of winter, the Tretstein Waterfall offers a unique experience in every season. In summer, the pleasant temperature around the waterfall offers a welcome cooling. But even the winter has its very special charm with snow on the rocks and large icicles on the falls. The Tretstein Waterfall marks a short, gorge-like cut of the Eidenbach into the Bunter sandstone of the surrounding area. The Eidenbach in turn flows into the Waizenbach after only a few hundred meters, but also has other smaller falls and steps on this short distance. The Waizenbach itself also ends soon and flows into the Franconian Saale near Gräfendorf after a short run. The name Trettstein is phonetically slurred from the dialectal "Trätsch-Stein" with the meaning Plätscherstein. The waterfall overcomes about three meters in free fall and hits sloping rock. The total height including this sloping section and smaller preliminary stages directly above the edge of the fall is about six meters. The waterfall is designated as a natural monument. To fully appreciate the beauty of the Tretstein Waterfall, allow ample time to explore the surrounding area. Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing lunch by the water's edge, or venture further into the forest to discover hidden trails and scenic viewpoints. The waterfall is easily accessible from Gräfendorf, with clear signposts guiding visitors along the way. The hike from the parking area to the waterfall is relatively short, making it suitable for families with children. The Tretstein Waterfall is more than just a natural attraction; it's a place where visitors can connect with nature, escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, the Tretstein Waterfall is sure to leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired by the beauty of the natural world. The Tretstein Waterfall is a romantic, somewhat hidden part of the Eidenbach between Gräfendorf and Dittlofsroda in the southernmost part of the Bavarian Rhön. The natural monument overcomes about three meters in free fall and hits sloping rock. The Tretstein Waterfall is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Gräfendorf region. Its natural beauty, geological significance, and tranquil atmosphere make it a truly unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of the Tretstein Waterfall.

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