The Schmugglerhütte is a detached, private holiday home in a quiet location on the edge of the forest near Grafenau in the Bavarian Forest. Here, couples, families, and dog owners will find a place to unwind—free from through traffic and hustle and bustle, but with plenty of nature, peace, and space for both people and dogs.
Nestled among forests, meadows, and hiking trails, the cottage is ideal for anyone looking to consciously step away from everyday life. The Schmugglerhütte is neither a holiday park nor a hotel, but a single house offering plenty of privacy—right next to the Bavarian Forest Nature Park.
🛋 Living Space and Amenities
With approximately 80 square metres of living space, the Schmugglerhütte can accommodate up to six people. The centrepiece of the house is the living and dining area with a tiled stove—it lends the room a special warmth and makes you feel right at home. This is where the wonderful evenings you’ll take home from your holiday come to life.
There are two separate bedrooms: one with a double bed and a second with two bunk beds, providing a total of four sleeping spots. This layout is particularly well-suited for families where children have their own space.
The kitchen is fully equipped (including a dishwasher) and offers everything you need for self-catering. There is a bathroom with natural light and a shower. Wi-Fi and a smart TV are available. Bedding, towels, and firewood for the tiled stove are included.
🐾 Holiday with your dog—up to 3 dogs welcome
Dogs are expressly welcome at the Schmugglerhütte—up to three dogs at a time. The fenced-in property, measuring approximately 400 square metres and located right next to the house, offers a safe space for dogs of all sizes to roam freely. A dog bed and two bowls are provided on-site.
The quiet location is particularly suitable for sensitive dogs. The forest and walking trails begin right outside the front door.
🌲 Location and Surroundings
The Schmugglerhütte is located in Haus im Wald near Grafenau, nestled in the southern Bavarian Forest. The house is situated at the end of a small road on a hillside—the last building above the edge of town. No through traffic, plenty of privacy.
Despite the tranquility, a supermarket, bakery, farm stand, and playground are all within walking distance. The Bavarian Forest National Park is about a 17-minute drive away.
🥾 Activities & Attractions in the Region
Water & Swimming
• The Bärenwelle outdoor wave pool in Grafenau—featuring a wave pool, a 10-meter diving tower, and an adventure slide—is just a few minutes away.
• Lake Dreiburgensee between Thurmansbang and Tittling (approx. 20 km) is a popular swimming lake with sunbathing areas, restaurants, and boat rentals. Dogs are welcome at the lake.
Hiking & Nature Right on Your Doorstep
From the house, you can quickly walk to the Ilz—a wild and romantic river valley with excellent hiking trails. The Ilz Dream Trail and the Pandurensteig are among the region’s best-known long-distance hiking trails. The Baerenpfad family adventure trail from Grafenau to Neuschoenau is ideal for a day trip.
For Families & Children
• The Baerenbob summer toboggan run in Grafenau offers a 1,250-meter-long descent with a double jump—within walking distance of the town centre.
• The BÄREAL Health and Adventure Park in Grafenau features an adventure playground, an open-air animal enclosure (wolves, bears, lynx), and a variety of programmes.
• The Bavarian Forest Treetop Trail in Neuschönau (approx. 20 km)—high above the treetops of the national park.
Cycling
The Danube-Ilz Bike Trail runs along a former railway right-of-way through the southern Bavarian Forest—ideal for families and leisurely day trips.
⛷ Winter Sports in the Area
If you’re looking to hit the slopes in winter, there are several options right on your doorstep:
• Grafenau Ski Lift (Schwaimberg & Juchee)—two ski lifts right in Grafenau, ideal for beginners and children, just a few minutes away
• Sonnenwald / Brotjacklriegel Ski Area (Langfurth/Schöfweg)—approx. 20 km away, family-friendly, artificial snow, floodlit slopes
• Mitterdorf / Almberg Ski Centre – approx. 30 km, the largest ski resort in the district, 5 lifts, slopes up to 2.5 km long
• Großer Arber – approx. 55 km, the most famous ski resort in the Bavarian Forest with a gondola and a World Cup course
In addition, there are cross-country trails around Grafenau that are groomed daily, as well as a toboggan run on the Schwaimberg.
👨👩👧👦 Who is the Schmugglerhütte suitable for?
The Schmugglerhütte is ideal for couples seeking peace and quiet, families with children, dog owners, and those seeking nature and tranquility. It is not suitable for parties or group events.
ℹ️ Good to know
• Non-smoking property
• Self-catering holiday home
• Parking directly at the house
• Lockable bike shed available
• Limited winter road maintenance; central car park approx. 200 m away as an alternative
⚠️ Note on the visitor’s tax
The statutory visitor’s tax for the town of Grafenau is not included in the rental price and is charged separately. It is currently €3.00 per night for adults (ages 16 and older) and €1.60 per night for children ages 6–15. Billing is based on the registration form submitted prior to arrival.