Location and surroundings
Steinberg belongs to the mountain chain Central European Highlands > Bohemian Massif > Bohemian Forest > Bavarian Forest. It is in Bischofsmais, in Landkreis Regen, in the region of Bavaria, Germany. The hill sits in a landscape of forested slopes and nearby ridges, with several summits and a pass close by.
Within the Bavarian Forest, Steinberg is not among the highest peaks, but it still rises above the surrounding terrain. Its position among short distances to other hills suggests a compact ridge landscape rather than an isolated summit.
Neighbouring peaks
- Kühberg — 878 m, 0.6 km NE
- Hirschenkopf — 980 m, 1.1 km W
- Schergenhohe — 924 m, 2.0 km W
- Anhangberg — 984 m, 2.0 km NW
- Hausstein — 917 m, 2.1 km SE
- Dreitannenriegel — 1,092 m, 2.9 km W
- Riegelsattel — 1,029 m, 3.0 km NW
- Breitenauriegel — 1,114 m, 3.0 km NW
The nearest higher peak is Hirschenkopf, which rises to 980 m and lies 1.1 km west of Steinberg. Several nearby summits are higher still, so Steinberg sits among a cluster of modest peaks and ridges rather than dominating the area.
The view from the summit
Within 25 km, the highest named peaks are Mittagsplatzl at 1,340 m, 23.6 km north, and Einödriegel at 1,121 m, 5.0 km northwest. These are the main higher points in the wider view from Steinberg.
Because the surrounding country is made up of ridges and forested hills, the outlook from the summit is shaped by nearby elevations as well as the larger Bavarian Forest skyline farther away.
The range
Steinberg is part of the Bavarian Forest, the highest peak of which is Grosser Rachel at 1,453 m, about 26 km northeast of Steinberg. The range spans Austria, Czechia and Germany.
According to the named-peak count used here, the Bavarian Forest has 323 named peaks, and Steinberg ranks 97th by elevation among them. That places it in the middle part of the range’s height profile rather than among its top summits.
Climate and weather
Estimates from NASA POWER climate data for 2001–2020 suggest that the summit has a mean temperature of about 16 °C in July, the warmest month, and about -4 °C in January, the coldest. Mean temperatures are above freezing from March through November.
Annual precipitation in the surrounding area is about 900 mm. The wettest month is about June with 100 mm, while April is the driest at about 50 mm. Conditions are therefore mild in summer, but cool, damp and changeable outside the warm season.
Best time to visit
For a walk to a hill of this height in the Bavarian Forest, the most comfortable period is usually from late spring to early autumn. The climate data show that temperatures are generally above freezing from March to November, with the warmest conditions in July and the most settled walking weather usually in summer.
Spring can still be cool and wet, while autumn may bring crisp air and damp ground. In winter, snow and frozen paths are more likely, so the hill is better suited to walkers prepared for colder conditions.
Nature and wildlife
The area around Steinberg is typical of the Bavarian Forest: wooded slopes, mixed forest, and a landscape shaped by ridges and small summits. At this elevation, coniferous forest is common, with some mixed woodland and open clearings where the terrain allows.
Wildlife in this part of Germany often includes deer, foxes, woodland birds and smaller forest animals. In the warmer months, ticks can be present in grassy or brushy places, so it is sensible to stay on paths and check clothing after a walk.
Practical tips
A visit to Steinberg is usually an easy hill walk, but the ground can still be uneven, muddy or rooty in forested sections. Sturdy footwear is sensible, and a light layer helps if wind picks up on the summit or along the ridges. In the warmer months, ticks can be an issue in the Bavarian Forest.
For emergencies in Germany, call 112; mountain rescue is alerted through that number. It is wise to carry a charged phone and basic navigation, especially if cloud, forest cover or ridge lines reduce visibility.
Interesting facts
Steinberg is the 97th highest of 323 named peaks in the Bavarian Forest, so it sits well below the range’s major summits but still forms part of a dense mountain landscape. Its nearest higher neighbour is Hirschenkopf, only 1.1 km away to the west.
The highest peak of the Bavarian Forest, Grosser Rachel, lies about 26 km northeast. Steinberg also sits within a range that crosses three countries: Germany, Austria and Czechia.
FAQ
How high is Steinberg? Steinberg rises to 919 m.
Where is Steinberg? It is in Bischofsmais, in Landkreis Regen, in Bavaria, Germany, within the Bavarian Forest.
What range does it belong to? Steinberg is part of the Bavarian Forest, which belongs to the wider Bohemian Forest and Bohemian Massif.
What are the hills around it? Nearby are Kühberg, Hirschenkopf, Schergenhohe, Anhangberg, Hausstein, Dreitannenriegel, Riegelsattel and Breitenauriegel.
Is mobile coverage likely on Steinberg? Coverage in the hills is patchy and depends on the operator. On an open top it is often better, while in valleys or behind ridges it can fail. Call 112 for emergency services over any available network, and download maps before setting out.
What is the nearest higher peak? The nearest higher peak is Hirschenkopf, 980 m high, about 1.1 km west.