Bayerischer Plöckenstein

The Bayerische Plöckenstein stands on the frontier where Germany meets the Czech Republic and Austria. It is a granite summit 1,365 metres above sea level, part of the long ridge that links the Dreisesselberg to the Hochficht. The ridge carries the border between Bavaria and Bohemia for several kilometres on either side of the three-country point. The mountain is famous for a protected expanse of giant granite blocks called the Steinernes Meer. These slabs, larger than those on the nearby Lusen, lie on a slope rather than a peak, forming a stark grey ocean of stone. Visitors also find the same kind of jagged tors that crown the Dreisesselberg, scattered across the summit zone. Paths lead up from the Bavarian side through the Naturpark Bayerischer Wald, while the Czech side lies within the Šumava National Park. From the top there are wide views that can stretch to the Alps when the Föhn wind clears the air. The European long-distance path E6 crosses the ridge, offering walkers a high route towards the Waldviertel in Austria.