Michels Vitaltour - OFFICIAL ROUTE DESCRIPTION!

The trail leads us from the starting point at the parking lot "Michels Walderlebnis" initially through the Stromberg city forest. We cross the Schindelbach via a wooden bridge, which owes its name to the elevated district of Schindeldorf. The Schindeldorf accompanies us for a short stretch of the path. About 200 meters after the last houses, the deciduous forest transforms into a pure fir forest, which appears so dense and enchanted that one would not be surprised to suddenly stumble upon a witch's house.

After a short but sporty ascent, the path widens again and reveals the view of the first resting place. A well-filled backpack is definitely recommended for the hiking tour. We continue along narrow, natural paths until we reach Schöneberg, in the heart of the Soonwald. This village has always been closely connected to the forest "at the doorstep" and its rich history. Schöneberg is proud to have produced a real elector and archbishop (Johann von Schonenburg). On the foundations of his parental home stands today the castle house built in 1686, which we will see later during our hike.

OUR TIP: Hildegard von Bingen Herb Garden in Schöneberg, right along the route.

About halfway through our journey, the forest landscape transforms into a field and meadow landscape. Along the Steyerbach Valley, we immerse ourselves in an intense experience of natural meadows and streams. Over the next 2 kilometers, the classic appearance of a wine-growing and cultural landscape develops from a romantic hedgerow landscape of abandoned vineyards. At the top of the hill sits the small wine village of Eckenroth, which can especially delight all wine lovers with its sparkling, robust Riesling.

After leaving the vineyard slopes, we encounter on our right the wine-growing village of Schweppenhausen. A small detour to the inn at the Campingplatz Aumühle in Schweppenhausen is recommended for a break.

In Schweppenhausen lies now the last, but at around 400 meters in length, the most challenging ascent ahead of you. The steeply ascending forest path to "Eckenrother Fels" will please you with its winding paths and forest romance.

Almost at the end of the round tour, a very special hiking experience awaits us. Those who still have energy should not miss the “Stromberger Klamm”. The path is about 1.2 kilometers long and compensates for the sometimes strenuous ascent with a grand, almost alpine climbing experience. If you are already out of breath, you can continue your way directly without the "detour" through the gorge. Now we only need to pass under the wooden bridge that we crossed at the beginning of our hike, and after about 500 meters, we will be back at our starting point.

Hiking shoes required! A food package is recommended.

Our tips for carefree hiking enjoyment

Hiking is the perfect sport. With the right clothing and shoes, it is twice as much fun. Functional clothing, poles, and breathable backpacks are comfortable while hiking. However, good shoes are essential. Sturdy jogging or leisure shoes are only suitable for short distances on flat paths. For longer routes, we recommend stable hiking shoes with a grippy, non-slip sole. Also, think about sun protection and bring a drink. One liter of water is ideal.

A highlight of the tour is the Stromberger Klamm - alpine character in the middle of the Hunsrück!