World Of Wanderlust

Germany is often celebrated for its rich history and picturesque cities, but its natural beauty is equally worth exploring. From the towering peaks of the Bavarian Alps to the thick forests of the Black Forest, the country’s landscapes are nothing short of mesmerizing. To truly appreciate Germany’s natural wonders, hiking is the perfect adventure. Here, we introduce you to 10 incredible hiking spots and trails that should be on your must-visit list.

### Best Trails for Hiking in Germany – Overview

– Allgäu
– Painter’s Way
– Black Forest
– Rhön
– Eifelsteig
– Moselsteig
– Goldsteig
– Albsteig
– Rheinsteig
– Partnach Gorge

#### 1. Allgäu
Located in southern Germany, Allgäu is a hiking paradise. The region is not only known for the stunning Bavarian Alps but also for its fairytale-like castles, such as Neuschwanstein Castle. Allgäu presents a comprehensive hiking experience through its “Wandertrilogie Allgäu,” a trio of trails: Wiesengänger (meadow walker), Wasserläufer (water routes), and Himmelsstürmer (heaven stormers). These paths vary in difficulty, so be sure to pick the one that fits your skill level.

#### 2. Painter’s Way
Nestled within the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, Painter’s Way offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Germany. The 110km-long trail takes its name from the artists like Adrian Zigg and Caspar David Friedrich, who found inspiration in the area’s ethereal beauty. As you hike, you’ll experience the misty, mysterious landscapes of the Sächsische Schweiz woodlands and the enormous limestone formations of the Elbe Mountains. The trail is generally easy, making it ideal for hikers of all levels.

#### 3. Black Forest
Situated in Southern Germany, the Black Forest boasts an extensive network of about 24,000 kilometers of hiking trails. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there’s a trail for you. The forest offers a variety of experiences, from the lakeside Querweg trail to the enchanting Kinzig Valley. In addition to scenic beauty, the Black Forest is a haven for food and drink lovers, featuring gourmet trails that offer wine and beer tastings.

#### 4. Rhön
The Rhön region is a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts. The area features lovely moors, river valleys, meadowlands, and mountains, extending over about 180 kilometers. For those seeking a more relaxed hike, the “Extraroute” offers circular paths starting from parking lots, perfect for a day or half-day hike.

#### 5. Eifelsteig
Stretching for 313 kilometers, the Eifelsteig trail leads you through a captivating volcanic landscape, high moorlands of the Hohes Venn, and the volcanic Eifel region. One of the highlights is a 30-meter-long suspension bridge that spans a flowing river, offering a unique hiking experience.

#### 6. Moselsteig
The Moselsteig trail offers a 365-kilometer hiking adventure divided into 24 stages. It’s renowned not just within Germany but across Europe. One of the perks of hiking here is the chance to sample delicious local wines from numerous local wineries. Celebrate the day’s hike by enjoying a glass of wine with your travel companions.

#### 7. Goldsteig
The Goldsteig Trail is among Germany’s most popular hiking routes, extending from Marktredwitz to Passau over 660 kilometers. As Germany’s longest certified hiking trail, it links the low mountain ranges of the Oberpfälzer and Bavarian Forests. One of the highlights is the bizarre granite formations at Dreisessel.

#### 8. Albsteig
Famous for its captivating beauty, the Albsteig trail stretches over 83.3 kilometers and is dotted with numerous castles and palaces. Iconic landmarks include the Urach waterfall and a stunning stalactite cave. However, this trail is quite challenging, requiring both physical and mental endurance as it involves navigating waterfalls, rivers, steep gorges, and rocky paths.

#### 9. Rheinsteig
Situated along the scenic Rhein Valley, the Rheinsteig trail is one of Germany’s most iconic hiking spots. The 320-kilometer route offers stunning views of hills, valleys, and rivers, but that’s not all. You’ll also encounter historical castles, beautiful vineyards, quaint farmlands, and excellent culinary experiences.

#### 10. Partnach Gorge
Partnach Gorge offers one of the most unique hiking experiences in Germany. The 800-meter-long gorge features towering rock walls and a rapid river, creating an exhilarating hiking environment. The trail is suitable for all levels of hikers and includes small tunnels and caves for additional exploration.

Exploring these hiking trails in Germany promises a memorable and scenic adventure. Whether you’re traversing the Allgäu’s fairy tale landscapes or sampling wine along the Moselsteig, each trail offers its own unique charm. Traveling with friends or like-minded adventurers can make the experience even more special. Happy hiking!