Festival-Mediaval

The Festival-Mediaval in Selb, Germany, is an annual event that transports visitors to the medieval era. This immersive festival, held every September, is one of Europe’s most prominent medieval-themed events. It features a rich blend of music, performances, markets, and historical reenactments, all set in the picturesque town of Selb, located in the Upper Franconia region of Bavaria.

Festival-Mediaval offers a comprehensive medieval experience with various activities and attractions that engage all the senses. Visitors can enjoy live music from renowned medieval bands, watch captivating theatre performances, and marvel at skilled artisans demonstrating ancient crafts.

Festival-Mediaval Travel Information

Getting There

By Car: Selb is well-connected by road. From Nuremberg, take the A9 motorway towards Berlin, then switch to the A93 motorway, following signs for Selb. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

By Train: Selb is accessible via regional trains. From Nuremberg, take a train to Marktredwitz and then a connecting train to Selb. The total journey time is around 2.5 to 3 hours.

By Air: The closest major airport is Nuremberg Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take public transportation to reach Selb.

Accommodation

Selb and its surrounding areas offer various accommodation options for different preferences and budgets. Here are some recommended hotels:

Hotel Schmidt

Located in the heart of Selb, Hotel Schmidt offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Its restaurant serves regional cuisine and is within walking distance of the festival grounds.

Hotel Haus Silberbach

Situated just outside Selb, Hotel Haus Silberbach provides a serene retreat with a countryside charm. The hotel offers cosy rooms, a wellness area, and an excellent breakfast buffet. It’s ideal for those looking to unwind after a day at the festival.

Gasthof Bräustübl

This charming guesthouse in nearby Wunsiedel offers traditional Bavarian hospitality. Gasthof Bräustübl features rustic rooms, a delightful beer garden, and hearty Bavarian meals. It’s a great choice for those wanting an authentic local experience.

Hotel Alexander

Located in Selb, Hotel Alexander offers stylish accommodation with modern and traditional decor. The hotel has an on-site restaurant and is conveniently situated for exploring the festival and the town.

Ferienwohnungen Rosner

For those seeking more independence, Ferienwohnungen Rosner offers fully equipped holiday apartments in the nearby town of Marktredwitz. These spacious apartments are perfect for families or groups and provide a home-away-from-home experience.

Festival-Mediaval Camping Fields

The camping fields, located directly on the Festival-Mediaval grounds in Papiermühlweg, offer a unique camping experience. These areas are exclusively for tents, ensuring a peaceful and intimate camping atmosphere. Upon arrival, you’ll be guided to register and receive your camping wristband. Please stop briefly at the roadside to unload your tents and luggage; your car must be promptly moved. The best part? You can choose any available spot for your tent, giving you the freedom to set up camp exactly where you want.

Groups of 25 people or more can reserve a space in advance by contacting our camping coordinator, Jürgen, via the Camping Forum.

Each person requires a camping ticket, which can be purchased from etix.com (search for Mediaval) or directly on-site at the camping ticket office. The ticket costs €25 in advance or €30 at the camping office and is valid for the entire duration of the festival.

Exploring Selb and Surrounding Areas

While the Festival-Mediaval is the main attraction, the town of Selb and its surroundings offer plenty to explore and enjoy.

Selb

Selb is renowned for its porcelain industry, and a visit to the Porzellanikon, the European Industrial Museum for Porcelain, is a must. The museum showcases the town’s rich heritage in porcelain manufacturing with fascinating exhibits and interactive displays.

The town centre of Selb features charming streets, local shops, and traditional Bavarian architecture. Stroll through the town and enjoy the local cafes and bakeries, where you can sample regional delicacies.

Fichtelgebirge Nature Park

Just a short drive from Selb, the Fichtelgebirge Nature Park offers stunning landscapes with rolling hills, dense forests, and pristine lakes. It’s an excellent destination for hiking, cycling, and nature photography. The Luisenburg Rock Labyrinth, with its unique rock formations, is a highlight in the area and provides an adventurous day out.

Wunsiedel

The nearby town of Wunsiedel is famous for its annual Luisenburg Festival, held in a spectacular open-air theatre set among massive granite boulders. The festival season is winding down in September, but you might still catch a performance. Wunsiedel also has a charming old town with historic buildings and cosy cafes.

Things to Do in September

Aside from the Festival-Mediaval, September is a fantastic time to explore the region due to the pleasant weather and the variety of local events and activities.

Wine Festivals

September is the season for wine festivals in Bavaria. The nearby Franconian wine region hosts several wine festivals where you can taste local wines, enjoy live music, and savour regional cuisine. These festivals provide a wonderful opportunity to experience Bavarian culture and hospitality.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities

The Fichtelgebirge Nature Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The mild September weather makes it ideal for hiking, with numerous trails catering to different skill levels. You can also go cycling, fishing, or picnic by one of the serene lakes.

Historical Sites

Explore the region’s rich history by visiting nearby castles and historical sites. The Hohenberg Castle, located just outside Selb, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into medieval history. A bit further afield, the Rosenberg Fortress in Kronach is another impressive historical site worth visiting.

Local Markets and Festivals

Many towns in the region host local markets and small festivals in September. These events often feature traditional crafts, local produce, and cultural performances. Visiting these markets is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up unique souvenirs.

The Festival-Mediaval in Selb, Germany, is a unique and captivating event that offers a deep dive into medieval culture and history. Coupled with the charming town of Selb, the beautiful surrounding nature, and the variety of activities available in September, it makes for an unforgettable travel experience.