---
title: "Schwalm-Eder-Kreis - Discover enchanting Forests"
url: "https://www.deutsche-maerchenstrasse.com/en/start/discover/cities-villages-regions/schwalm-eder-kreis"
description: "With its forested uplands between the Kellerwald and Knüll mountains, and picturesque river valleys, the region offers the perfect setting for both active and relaxing days."
language: "en"
breadcrumb: "Root > start > Discover > Cities, Villages and Regions > Schwalm-Eder-Kreis"
---

Schwalm-Eder-District
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Discover enchanting forests and river valleys
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With its forested uplands between the Kellerwald and Knüll mountains and the picturesque river valleys of the Eder, Fulda, and Schwalm, the **Schwalm-Eder District** offers the perfect setting for active holidays and relaxing stays surrounded by unspoilt nature.

### **Schwalm-Eder District for Fairy Tale Enthusiasts**

According to tradition, the Brothers **Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm** found the inspiration for **Little Red Riding Hood** in the traditional costume of the Schwalm region. Unmarried women wore a distinctive red bonnet until the age of thirty—a feature believed to have inspired the famous fairy-tale heroine.

Many legends and folk tales are still associated with the towns and villages of the Schwalm-Eder District.

Highlights for fairy-tale enthusiasts include:

- **Fairy Tale House** in Neukirchen
- **Museum of the Schwalm** in Schwalmstadt-Ziegenhain, where visitors can admire the traditional **Schwalm costume**, including the famous red bonnet associated with Little Red Riding Hood

### **Schwalm-Eder District for Holidaymakers and Day Visitors**

Whether hiking along the **ARS NATURA Art Trail**, cycling on more than **500 kilometres of signposted cycle routes**, or canoeing on the rivers Eder and Fulda, outdoor activities are perfectly combined with unforgettable nature experiences.

Golf enthusiasts from across Germany appreciate the attractive course at **Oberaula**, where sporting challenge meets beautiful scenery. Those seeking a different perspective can discover the region from the air on a glider or sightseeing flight.

Tennis, horse riding, skating, mountain biking, and many other activities ensure there is something for every active holidaymaker.

A visit to the region's medieval half-timbered towns is always worthwhile. Whether exploring the former cathedral and imperial town of **Fritzlar**, **Homberg (Efze)**—known as Hesse's Reformation town—**Schwalmstadt** with its historic water fortress of Ziegenhain, or **Melsungen** with its magnificent half-timbered town hall, visitors are transported into the atmosphere of centuries past.

Families will also enjoy a visit to the **Knüll Wildlife Park**, where native wildlife can be observed in spacious natural surroundings. Guided tours with the park's wildlife rangers offer fascinating insights into the region's flora and fauna.

At the **Hessian Brown Coal Mining Museum** in **Borken (Hesse)**, visitors can explore four exhibition areas under the theme *"Experience Industrial Heritage – Discover Changing Landscapes"* and learn about the history of coal mining and energy production in the region.

### Contact on site

**Schwalm-Touristik e.V.**
Paradeplatz 7
34613 Schwalmstadt - Ziegenhain
Deutschland

Tel.: 
Fax: +49 6691 / 20744400
E-Mail: info@schwalmtouristik.de
Webseite:

#### Discover Schwalm-Eder-District