The Kreuzfelsen is a striking 999-metre rock bastion that forms the western cornerstone of the long Kaitersberg ridge in the Bavarian Forest. Its massive summit cross offers sweeping views down into the Zellertal valley and over Bad Kötzting, stretching far into the Anterior Bavarian Forest.

This is a place with real character — a jagged rock outcrop rising above wooded slopes, offering a taste of alpine drama despite its modest elevation. In summer, hikers come for the panoramic views; in autumn the surrounding forests turn golden; in winter the steeper stretches can be icy and demand extra care. Hidden about 50 metres below the summit cross lies the mysterious Räuber-Heigl-Höhle, a cave that once sheltered the notorious 19th-century robber Heigl.

How to reach the summit

• From Arndorf — follow trail markers 'K3', then 'Bk3', approx. 1–1.5 hours, demanding (despite the modest altitude, around 500 m of elevation gain with some steep sections)
• Alternative route from Reitenstein via Reitenberg, also starting near Bad Kötzting from the west

Practical information

• Kreuzfelsen offers a good number of well-secured sport climbing routes, suitable for toprope climbing
• The Räuber-Heigl-Höhle is a designated geotope — a narrow entrance leads to a larger chamber, which narrows further into a tight passage exiting back outside
• The popular long-distance trail E6 runs from Kötzting via the nearby Kötztinger Hütte and Großer Riedelstein all the way to the Arber

Legend has it that the robber Heigl once hid in the rock crevices beneath the summit — today his cave is one of the region's most fascinating geological sites, showcasing beautifully exposed metamorphic gneiss structures.