Franconian Switzerland, Geographic region in Upper Franconia, Germany.
Franconian Switzerland is a region in Upper Franconia, Germany, marked by forested hills and steep limestone cliffs. The landscape unfolds along three river valleys dotted with villages featuring half-timbered houses and church spires.
The area became known under its current name in 1820 through Jakob Reiselsberger's book, which described the landscape after early Romantic travelers compared it to Switzerland. Before that, locals called the territory Muggendorfer Gebirg and few outsiders ventured into the valleys.
Locals often gather at traditional breweries that produce unfiltered beer following methods handed down over generations. Visitors can walk into half-timbered inns where families have served the same dark bread and smoked meat for more than a century.
Visitors should wear sturdy shoes because many trails cross uneven roots and rocks. Paths are generally well marked, but a map helps when navigating the branching valleys.
Every spring, more than 200 villages decorate their fountains with thousands of painted eggs hanging in elaborate patterns from garlands. This Osterbrunnen tradition turns village squares into colorful outdoor displays for several weeks.
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