Echterspfahl

Echterspfahl is a historic hermitage in the Spessart mountain range situated at 490 meters elevation where ancient trade routes intersected. The former forest house once operated as a restaurant until 2020 and is positioned along the Bundesstrasse 8 connecting Frankfurt and Würzburg.

The site served as a gathering point for hunters and foresters working under the Archbishop-Electors of Mainz when the forest was part of their territory. Its position along trade routes made it an important stopping place in the Spessart region.

The name Echterspfahl comes from a local tale about three Echter brothers who supposedly tied their horses to a post with three metal rings. This story remains part of the place's identity and is remembered by those who know the area.

The former restaurant building no longer operates, and the site sits along a busy federal highway with regular traffic. It's wise to check ahead about current access conditions and any available facilities before planning a visit.

The three metal rings from the Echter brothers legend were later incorporated into the family coat of arms and now appear in the official emblem of Aschaffenburg. Few visitors realize this connection between a small mountain site and the heraldic history of an entire city.