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Oberpfalz, Germany: Find villas and holiday homes at Italiavillas

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Oberpfalz: Bavaria's Underrated Gem



Oberpfalz (Upper Palatinate) is one of Bavaria's most underrated gems. Located in the northeastern part of the state, bordering the Czech Republic, it is a land of basalt cones, medieval towns and "a thousand ponds". Often called the "Bavarian Tuscany" or the "Land of a Thousand Ponds", it offers a slower, more authentic way of life compared to the bustling Alpine south.

History and Description



Historically, Oberpfalz was a center for iron mining and glass production, earning it the nickname "Medieval Ruhr". The capital, Regensburg, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the few German cities to survive World War II almost intact.

Today, the region is a haven for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway. Whether you're looking for a rustic holiday home in the woods or a modern apartment in a medieval town centre, the Upper Palatinate offers a range of accommodation options. You can find luxury villas overlooking the Danube or cosy self-catering accommodation tucked away in the Upper Palatinate Forest, perfect for a longer stay or a quick weekend getaway.

Nature and activities



The landscape is defined by the Upper Palatinate Forest and the Steinwald. Here are some of the most popular activities:

Hiking and cycling: The Goldsteig is one of Germany's leading long-distance hiking trails, cutting through dense spruce forests and over volcanic peaks.

Water sports: The "New Franconian Lake District" is not far away, but the Upper Palatinate has its own Steinberger See, home to the world's largest tree observation globe.

Geology: Visit the GeoPark Parkstein, built on what Alexander von Humboldt called the "most beautiful basalt cone in Europe".

Wellness: Many resorts in the area have private spas or are located near thermal baths like those in Weiden.

Culinary delights: Typical foods



The Upper Palatinate is famous for its hearty, "honest" food:

Zoigl beer: A unique communal brewing tradition. Look out for the "Zoigl star" hanging outside the houses - it means that the owner has tapped a fresh barrel of home-brewed, unfiltered beer.

Oberpfälzer Karpfen (Carp): With over 4,000 fish ponds in the Tirschenreuth district, fried carp is a seasonal staple (in months containing the letter "r").

Dotsch: The local version of potato pancakes, often served with applesauce or as a spicy side dish.

Schlachtschüssel: A traditional plate of boiled pork roast, liver sausage and black pudding.

Festivals and Events



Regensburger Dult: Held twice a year (May and August), this is a massive folk festival that rivals Munich's Oktoberfest, but with a more local, intimate feel.

Drachenstich: Germany's oldest folk game featuring a massive, high-tech, fire-breathing robotic dragon in the town of Furth im Wald.

Grotto play: The region takes advantage of its natural geography for "Felsenkeller" tours and open-air theater in old quarries.

Christmas markets: The romantic Christmas market at Thurn und Taxis Castle in Regensburg is consistently voted one of the most beautiful in the world.
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