Velký Javor, known in German as Großer Arber, is one of the most striking destinations on the German side of the Šumava Mountains. At 1,456 metres, it is the highest peak in the Bavarian Forest and is often nicknamed the ‘King of the Bavarian Forest’. From the summit, there are views of the Bavarian Forest, the Šumava Mountains, Lake Velké Javorské and, on a clear day, as far as the Alps.

By cable car or on foot

You can plan your trip to suit your mood, fitness level and the weather. Drive to the Arber Bergbahn lower station; the journey from the OREA Hotel Špičák or OREA Resort Horizont takes around 20 minutes. From there, you can continue by cable car. The cable car climbs 342 metres; the journey takes about 4 minutes, and from the top station it’s just a short walk to the summit viewpoints. If you’d like to make the trip more of a hike, you can set off on foot from the lower station and turn the journey to the summit into a mountain hike.

From Železná Ruda without a car

From Železná Ruda, you can take the train towards the border station Železná Ruda-Alžbětín / Bayerisch Eisenstein and then continue according to the current seasonal public transport options or on foot. Specific connections may change throughout the year, so it is advisable to check the latest timetables, cable car operations and weather conditions before setting off.

Circular route via Velké Javorské Lake

Those wishing to extend their trip can combine a visit to Velký Javor with a visit to Velké Javorské Lake, known in German as Großer Arbersee. A moderately challenging circular route, approximately 19 km long, leads from Bayerisch Eisenstein across the lake and through Velký Javor.

Practical information

Sturdy footwear, layered clothing and plenty of water are recommended for the trip. The weather at the summit can change more quickly than down in the valley. It is worth checking the current weather, cable car operations and any changes to transport services before setting off.