logo
Bavarian Forest National Park winter landscape
add-banner

About Germany National Parks National Parks

Germany is home to 16 national parks, each offering unique landscapes, biodiversity, and outdoor experiences. These protected areas showcase the country’s diverse natural heritage and provide havens for native flora and fauna.

From the windswept coastline of the North Sea to the majestic peaks of the Bavarian Alps, Germany’s national parks encompass a variety of ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, mountains, and coastal habitats. Visitors to these parks can enjoy activities such as hiking, birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and nature photography.

Some of Germany’s most renowned national parks include the Bavarian Forest National Park, Jasmund National Park on the island of Rügen, and Saxon Switzerland National Park. These parks not only serve as recreational destinations but also play vital roles in conservation efforts and environmental education, preserving Germany’s natural landscapes for future generations to enjoy.

detail-img detail-img

Germany National Parks's National Parks

Bavarian Forest National Park snow capped mountain reflection

Bavarian Forest National Park

Explore Now
Saxon Switzerland National Park

Saxon Switzerland National Park

Explore Now

FAQ’s

1. How many national parks are there in Germany?

Germany is home to 16 national parks, each offering its own unique natural beauty and ecological diversity. These national parks encompass a variety of landscapes, including forests, mountains, wetlands, and coastal areas, providing habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species. Some of the most notable national parks in Germany include:

  1. Bavarian Forest National Park: Germany’s first national park, known for its ancient forests and diverse wildlife.
  2. Black Forest National Park: Situated in southwestern Germany, this park features dense forests, picturesque valleys, and cultural landmarks.
  3. Saxon Switzerland National Park: Located near the Czech border, this park is characterized by rugged sandstone cliffs, lush forests, and the Elbe River.
  4. Jasmund National Park: Situated on the island of Rügen in the Baltic Sea, known for its stunning chalk cliffs and beech forests.

These national parks provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor recreation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Germany’s natural beauty and conservation efforts

2. What is the largest national park in Germany?

The largest national park in Germany is the Bavarian Forest National Park (Nationalpark Bayerischer Wald). It is located in the southeastern part of the country, in the Bavarian region near the border with the Czech Republic. The park covers an area of approximately 242 square kilometers (about 93 square miles).

Established in 1970, the Bavarian Forest National Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including ancient forests, moorlands, and mountainous terrain. It is home to a variety of wildlife species, including European bison, lynx, and golden eagles.

The park offers visitors opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and nature photography, as well as educational programs and interpretive trails.

The Bavarian Forest National Park plays a vital role in conserving Germany’s natural heritage and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

3. What is the smallest national park in Germany?

The smallest national park in Germany is the Hainich National Park (Nationalpark Hainich). It is located in the state of Thuringia in central Germany and covers an area of approximately 75 square kilometers (about 29 square miles).

Established in 1997, Hainich National Park is known for its ancient beech forests, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe.” The park is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the European wildcat and the barbastelle bat.

Visitors to Hainich National Park can explore the forest via numerous hiking trails and observation points, providing opportunities for wildlife watching and experiencing the tranquility of this pristine natural environment.

4. What was the first national park in Germany?

The first national park in Germany is the Bavarian Forest National Park (Nationalpark Bayerischer Wald). Established in 1970, it is located in the southeastern part of the country, in the Bavarian region near the border with the Czech Republic.

Bavarian Forest National Park was created to protect and preserve the region’s unique ecosystems, including ancient forests, moorlands, and mountainous terrain. It serves as a haven for a wide variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered ones such as the European bison, lynx, and capercaillie.

The park also offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, nature education, and scientific research. Bavarian Forest National Park has played a pioneering role in Germany’s conservation efforts and has inspired the establishment of other national parks across the country.