Barbarossaquelle, Rodenbach, Hessen, Germany

## Overview The Barbarossaquelle is a natural spring nestled deep in the forests of the Naturpark Hessischer Spessart, roughly 1.5 km southwest of Oberrodenbach in the Rodenbach municipality of Hessen, Germany. Named after the legendary Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I — known as Barbarossa ("Red Beard") — the spring carries echoes of medieval German history and folklore. Emperor Barbarossa, who ruled from 1155 to 1190, is a towering figure in German legend; according to popular myth, he sleeps beneath the Kyffhäuser mountain and will one day return. Springs and landmarks bearing his name are scattered across Germany, each tied to the cultural memory of his reign and the romantic nationalism of the 19th century. At the spring site, visitors will find an idyllic small lake fed by the source, along with a designated barbecue and picnic area — making it a lovely destination for a day trip into the woods. The spring sits near the border between Hessen and Bavaria, in a quiet, forested setting that feels far removed from civilization. The Barbarossaquelle has historically served as a public drinking spring, though as with any natural water source, visitors should be aware that water quality can vary with weather and season. The water has been traditionally used by locals and hikers passing through the Spessart forest. ## Directions The Barbarossaquelle is located in the middle of the forest and **cannot be reached by car**. Plan for a pleasant walk or bike ride along well-maintained forest paths. 1. **Starting point:** Head to the parking area on the **E41 (Bundesstraße)** near the Hessen–Bavaria border, on the western approach to the spring. 2. From the parking area, follow the **wide, well-surfaced forest trail** (suitable for bicycles) heading east into the Naturpark Hessischer Spessart. 3. Continue along this path for approximately **3.6 km**. The route is partially signposted toward the Barbarossaquelle — watch for trail markers along the way. 4. The spring and its small lake will appear in a clearing in the forest. The area known locally as **"Auf der Hainbuche"** is the nearest named landmark. **GPS coordinates:** 50.120193, 9.052944 ## What to Expect The Barbarossaquelle is a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path destination ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and cyclists. The spring feeds a small, scenic lake surrounded by dense Spessart forest — a mix of beech, oak, and hornbeam trees typical of this region. A barbecue and picnic area at the site makes it a popular spot for a leisurely outdoor meal. The spring is open and accessible **24 hours a day, year-round**. Since the only access is via forest trails, sturdy footwear is recommended, especially after rain when paths may be muddy. The 3.6 km trail from the E41 parking area is wide and flat enough for comfortable cycling. Because of its forest location near the Hessen–Bavaria border, the area is quiet and sees relatively light foot traffic outside of weekends and holidays. In autumn, the surrounding Spessart forest puts on a spectacular display of fall color. In winter, the trails may be less maintained, so plan accordingly. For more background on the spring and its history, the German Wikipedia article on the Barbarossaquelle (de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barbarossaquelle) provides additional context.