Long-distance hiking in Germany is a varied adventure, especially in the south and the low mountain ranges. We present four popular routes in more detail to find the perfect place to play slots.
Long-distance hiking in Germany offers the opportunity to discover longer routes away from everyday life and to experience a sporty vacation close to nature. The long-distance hiking trails lead through different landscapes and regions and offer a variety of impressions of nature and culture.
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Long-distance hiking in Germany: the Rennsteig
The Rennsteig is one of the best-known hiking trails for long-distance hiking in Germany and runs as a historic border trail for around 170 kilometers through the Thuringian Forest – from Hörschel near Eisenach to Blankenstein.
Hikers experience a varied landscape of dense forests, high moors and wide meadows along the way. Along the way, there are always views of the peaks of the Thuringian Forest, the famous Inselsberg massif and the enchanted slate mountains.
Who is it for? The route is suitable for people of average fitness. There are no extreme gradients, but some of the terrain is challenging.
Duration: If you cover around 20 to 25 kilometers per day, you will need around seven to eight days to complete the entire Rennsteig. Advanced hikers may be able to complete the route in five to six days.
The Westweg leads all the way to Switzerland
The Westweg in the Black Forest is ideal for long-distance hiking in Germany. At around 285 kilometers, the Westweg is the longest long-distance hiking trail in the Black Forest and leads from Pforzheim to Basel in Switzerland.
The Westweg impresses with its versatility. Along the way, hikers pass through dense forests, past clear mountain lakes and reach the highest point in the Black Forest, the Feldberg.
Who is it for? Although the Westweg is long, it can be classified as moderately difficult overall. There are a few steep climbs that make the trail a little challenging, especially at the beginning. If you want to hike the Westweg, you should therefore have some hiking experience and be in good physical condition.
Duration: If you cover around 25 to 30 kilometers per day, you will need a total of ten to twelve days for the Westweg.
The Hermannshöhen for long-distance hiking in Germany
The Hermannshöhen offers a 150-kilometre journey through the history and nature of the Teutoburg Forest.
The route runs along striking historical sites, including the famous Externsteine and the Hermannsdenkmal. The trail also follows the route where the famous Battle of the Teutoburg Forest took place in 9 AD.
For whom? The trail is demanding throughout, with many climbs and a length of 150 kilometers. Some sections are challenging, especially the section around the Hermann monument, which stands on a hill. The Hermannshöhen is therefore suitable for hikers with experience and a good basic level of fitness.
Duration: You will need seven to eight days for the entire hiking trail if you cover 20 to 25 kilometers a day.
The varied Eifelsteig trail
You will pass several maars on the Eifelsteig. The Eifelsteig runs over 313 kilometers from Aachen to Trier and leads through the natural paradise of the Eifel. The route offers a variety of geological highlights, as the Eifel is particularly known for its volcanic landscapes. Along the way, you will hike past volcanic lakes, geothermal springs and the so-called maars, the former volcanic explosion craters. The fossil finds and the Unesco Geopark area are particularly exciting.
Who is it for? The Eifelsteig is suitable for hikers who are looking for a varied route and are prepared to tackle steep climbs. You need to be in good physical condition to be able to tackle the steep sections.
Duration: If you want to hike the entire Eifelsteig in stages, you should plan around twelve to 14 days.
Even if it may not seem like it at first: Hiking is sport! Consistent and regular exercise is incredibly good for the body and our health. It not only reduces the risk of various diseases such as cardiovascular problems, obesity, osteoporosis and diabetes, but also some types of cancer. At the same time, walking is the perfect anti-ageing recipe, as regular walking can protect against premature dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
