Freyung - Info point in the direction of Hinterschmiding

Imagine you’re on your way on the Trail of Winterberg (first mentioned in 1312) with other sumpters. You’ve passed Markt Freyung and many kilometers through the big Nordwald forest are ahead. You’re heading for Hinterschmiding, the last town before the Bohemian border. But which risks were the sumpters and merchants exposed to back then? On the one hand, there was partly very rough and bumpy terrain which needed experienced pack horses and sure-footed guides.

On the other hand, the wayfarer were attacked by dangerous animals like wolves and bears time and again. The greatest risk, however, were the malicious bandits and robber barons which were frequently attacking and robbing the trails. In order to protect the passing sumpters, some castles and fortified hill tops were built. Furthermore, at the behest of the keeper, armed watchmen of the paths were involved in order to protect the travellers.