Framed by the rugged peaks of the Kellerwald range, Edertal is a small town overlooking the Affolderner See in northern Hesse. Its dam was constructed in the early 20th century and was famously breached by Allied bombers during World War II.
Stroll along the bank of the Eder River to where it meets the Affolderner See, a man-made reservoir created in 1929. It was originally designed to serve the Waldeck Pumped Storage Station and is now a popular recreational spot for local anglers. A variety of birdlife can be sighted in the area, including mute swans and Eurasian wigeons.
Edertal makes a good base for visiting Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, which preserves one of the largest remaining beech forests in Central Europe. It’s traversed by a network of hiking and cycling trails that lead between natural springs and impressive rock formations. Keen trekkers can explore along the 68-kilometre Urwald Trail.
Getting there
Edertal is around 45 minutes’ drive from Kassel and Kassel Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Buses connect to Edertal and the village is small enough to explore on foot. Rental bicycles are also available for getting around.