Vital Tour Castle Path

We start the Vital Tour "Castle Path" at the parking lot at "Bockenauer Schweiz". The circular route initially runs northward along a disused railway line. On this approximately 0.7 km long section, we hike along the valley floor, bordered by natural accompanying shrubs. The path leads us along a water-bound surface next to the county road. After several road crossings, the path leaves the valley floor at the edge of Winterburg. We hike northward along a steep 200 m ascent on an asphalt path to the ridge.

From here, there is a distant view to the Donnersberg in the south and to the quartzite slopes of the Soonwald in the north. On the opposite slope, we can see the Winterburg Castle, the villages of Gebroth and Allenfeld, and the ridge of the Gauchsberg. The village of Winterburg is visible in the very narrow valley floor of the Ellerbach. Surrounded by meadows and groups of trees, this section of the path provides us with a special hiking experience. After about 400 m, the field path ends at an asphalt road. We continue hiking northward, passing neighboring pastures.

Upon reaching the height, we are welcomed at the viewpoint "Auf dem Eckweiler Berg" by a new hiking hut built by the Soonwald Nahe Nature Park Association. The comfortable resting place offers us a good opportunity to take a break and let our gaze wander over a peaceful landscape while enjoying the tranquility of the place.

Along the idyllic Tonnenbach Valley, we hike to the village of Winterburg. Through the village, we reach our route via a steep ascent with steps to Winterburg Castle. After a steep descent to the Ellerbach Valley, we ascend again to the viewpoint "Hahn". Via another steep ascent and descent with the viewpoint "Schlicht", we reach the next ridge "Am Meerhölzchen". The challenging section of the path is rewarded with impressive close and distant views. Deciduous forests and imposing rock outcrops make this section a special hiking experience. The summit of the ridge runs over open landscape. Back in the forest, the path now continuously loses height. Along a hollow way that was used in past centuries for church visits from Allenfeld to the former monastery near Bockenau, we hike back to the inn "Bockenauer Schweiz".

Surefootedness is required.

Sturdy footwear is recommended.

Refreshment options at the start and end point Camping "Bockenauer Schweiz"