In Munich, we have quite a few cherry blossom spots that bathe the city in pink and white, first and foremost, of course, the real sakura in the Olympic Park. If the small spots in the city aren’t enough for you, then you should take a trip to Franconian Switzerland. In the region around the Walberla in the Trubach Valley, the area bursts into bloom from mid-April onward, when thousands of cherry trees are in full bloom. The best way to enjoy them is on a walk along the Pretzfeld Cherry Trail, where you can learn more about these sweet fruits.
Cherry blossoms as far as the eye can see
The Walberla is officially known as Ehrenbürg and is a mountain range in the south of Franconian Switzerland. The area around the table mountain in the Trubach Valley is considered Germany’s largest contiguous sweet cherry orchard, with a total of 200,000 trees covering an area of 2,500 hectares. From mid-April onward, the trees are in full bloom, bathing the area in a magnificent white.
You can discover the cherry blossoms in the Trubach Valley in various ways. The Pretzfeld Cherry Trail is particularly recommended, leading you through the trees for about 9 kilometers. A total of 15 information boards provide details about the plants, their cultivation, and the fruit. The Pretzfeld Cherry Trail is also worth visiting in summer, when ripe cherries hang from the trees. In July, you can attend the Cherry Festival in the town, where everything revolves around this stone fruit.
If you’re only interested in the blossoms, you can also take the cherry blossom hike between Egloffstein and Leutenbach. On the 19-kilometer loop trail , you won’t be able to get enough of the trees’ radiant white blossoms and the view over the Turbach Valley. Just follow the green crossbars and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful landscapes and the perfect spring hike.
Tips for the Cherry Blossom Hike
Before you rush off to explore the Pretzfeld Cherry Trail, you should first check the Franconian Switzerland Blossom Barometer. This will tell you what stage the cherry blossoms are in, so you don’t make the trip for nothing. The Cherry Trail is easily accessible by public transit or car. The route has several starting points where you can park your car. Ideally, visit during the week if you want to avoid the weekend crowds.
If, on the other hand, you don’t mind the crowds, then mark the first weekend in May on your calendar. From April 30 to May 3, the Walberlafest takes place at Ehrenbürg, where you can celebrate in high spirits among the trees or in the tents. Sample Franconian specialties and try one of the 40 festival beers while enjoying the view of the cherry trees.
