A Day Trip in the Taunus Mountains Near Frankfurt (2024)

Embark on a winter adventure in the Taunus Mountains near Frankfurt. Discover scenic paths, lush woodlands, and breathtaking panoramas. Embrace the tranquility of nature, all within easy reach of the bustling city.

If you're anything like me, you know that there's nothing quite like the magic of snow season! So, as my exams ended mid-January and I had a few weeks before heading back to Portugal, I decided to take a winter trip to Frankfurt to meet up with Thomas.Now, Frankfurt isn't exactly known for its snow, but Thomas and I had a plan up our sleeves! We decided to head to the Bavarian city of Füssen, nestled at the foot of the stunning Alps. Our goal? To check a visit to the famous Neuschwanstein castle off our bucket list while enjoying some snowy fun (check out our posthere).

However, fate had even moreplans for us! Just before our trip, Thomas heard rumors of snow on the nearby Taunus mountain range.The magic word, "snow," was all it took to convince me to join in on this other winter adventure. What makes the Taunus mountains extra special? They're incredibly easy to reach from Frankfurt! In this post, we'll give you all the info you need to reach this winter wonderland, as well as a list of all the amazing things to see and do once you get there. Trust us, you won't want to miss this!

Nestled just 80 kilometers north of the city, the stunning Taunus mountain range in the Hessen region boasts dense forests and breathtaking views.While these mountains may not be as high as their Bavarian counterparts, they still pack a punch! The highest peak, Großer Feldberg, stands at 879.5 meters (2,887 feet), offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

The Taunus Mountains are a popular year-round destination for locals looking to escape the noise of the city and recharge their batteries. With two nature parks to explore, including the second largest nature reserve in the Hessen region, there's no shortage of things to see and do.So whether you're seeking adventure or just a peaceful retreat, the Taunus Mountains have got you covered!

Plan your visit with the help of theTaunus brochure, which outlines all the activities and attractions available in the region. For further insights, visit theTaunus Information Centerin Oberursel, where an interactive exhibition offers information on the area's history and wildlife.

The Taunus mountains are located just a stone's throw away from Frankfurt and are easily accessible by both public transport and car.

• Public transport: To reach Grosser Feldberg via public transport, take the U3 subway line from Frankfurt city center heading towards Oberursel Hohemark and ride it to the last stop. Upon arrival, catch bus line 57, which will take you directly to the top of Grosser Feldberg. The entire journey typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. A full-day subway ticket costs only 5.30 EUR and provides unlimited travel, making it a cost-effective option. For groups, a group ticket accommodating up to 5 people can be purchased for just 11.30 EUR.
• By car: For those traveling by car, Grosser Feldberg is easily accessible via well-maintained roads. From Frankfurt city center, the drive typically takes around 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Simply input "Grosser Feldberg" into your GPS or map application, and follow the directions to the designated parking areas near the summit. Keep in mind that parking may be limited during peak times, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.

Before embarking on your journey, it's advisable to check theTaunus Information Centerfor helpful tips and recommendations. Additionally, if you're planning to engage in winter activities such as skiing or snowboarding, be sure to check the weather forecastand current conditions.Webcamsare available to provide real-time updates on weather and snow conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit to Grosser Feldberg.

Embark on an immersive journey through time as you explore the rich tapestry of history woven throughout the enchanting Taunus Mountains region. From ancient Roman ruins to medieval castles, there's an abundance of historical treasures waiting to be discovered by eager adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.

• Roman Remnants: Begin your exploration by delving into the remnants of the Roman Limes Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to the ingenuity and strategic prowess of the ancient Romans. Tracing its path through the rugged landscape, you'll encounter fragments of this formidable defensive barrier, offering tantalizing glimpses into a bygone era of military might and cultural exchange. Among these remnants lies the Saalburg, a meticulously reconstructed Roman fort, and nearby, the Römerkastell Saalburg, both serving as vivid reminders of the Roman presence in the region and offering insights into daily life on the frontier.

• Medieval Marvels: Transport yourself back in time as you wander through the cobbled streets and atmospheric alleys of historic towns like Königstein and Oberursel. Towering above the landscape, the imposing ruins of Burg Königstein beckon, its weathered stones whispering tales of knights, sieges, and medieval intrigue dating back to the 12th century. Meanwhile, in Oberursel, the quaint charm of its medieval center unfolds before you, with architectural treasures such as St. Ursula Church, the venerable town hall, and meticulously preserved timber-framed houses offering a glimpse into the daily lives of centuries past.

Embark on a captivating journey through the annals of time as you uncover the fascinating history of the Taunus Mountains region. Each historical site offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past, to reflect on the triumphs and tragedies of those who came before, and to gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring spirit of this storied landscape.

The Hessenparkis an immersive open-air museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the region's rich rural heritage. Spanning over sixty hectares, this living museum offers a journey through time, where visitors can explore meticulously reconstructed traditional half-timbered houses, barns, and workshops sourced from various historical sites across Hesse. As you wander through the winding paths of the park, you'll be transported back in time, surrounded by the authentic ambiance of centuries past, engaging with knowledgeable craftsmen and participating in hands-on activities that bring history to life, all while gaining a deeper appreciation for Hesse's cultural traditions and architectural treasures.

|Opening hours|

daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Mar. to Oct.)

Sat.& Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Nov. to Feb.)

|Admission -11 EUR (5.50 EUR after 3.30 p.m.) |

If you're planning a winter trip to the Taunus Mountains and using public transportation, let us share a cautionary tale from our own experience. On the day we visited, snow was falling steadily, covering the roads with a thick blanket of white. Despite the picturesque winter wonderland scenery, we soon discovered that there was a problem with the machinery company responsible for clearing the roads. As a result, the bus company decided to halt bus traffic for safety reasons, without any prior warning.

We found ourselves stranded at the bus stop, unsure of why the bus was not coming. After waiting for almost an hour, we decided to hike back up to the top to see if we could find out what was going on and warm up at the restaurant. Once there, we learned about the issue with the roads and began exploring alternative options for transportation. However, local cab companies informed us that it would take at least 2 hours for them to reach us due to the difficult driving conditions.Just when we thought we were out of luck, the kind owner of the Feldberghaus restaurant offered us a ride back down the mountain on his way home. It was a true act of kindness that we'll never forget!

So, if you're planning a trip to the Taunus Mountains during the winter and it happens to snow on the day of your visit, make sure to keep a close eye on the bus traffic and be prepared for potential delays or cancellations. Alternatively, consider renting a car or booking a private transfer in advance to avoid any unexpected transportation issues.

Tags:Germany