Explore the beauty of Germany along the Rheinsteig trail, an adventurous path winding through charming towns and historic castles. This easygoing six-day hike invites you to an unforgettable adventure, allowing you to discover the scenic wonders of Germany and its surroundings. In the guide below, I’ll share my personal experience of strolling along this captivating trail. 🏞
Day 1 – Geierlay Bridge & Braubach
On our way to Braubach, where our journey begins, we decided to stop at the famous Geierlay Suspension Bridge in Mörsdorf. The Geierlay, spanning 360 meters and suspended at 100 meters, offers breathtaking views of the Mörsdorfer Bachtal valley. Opened in 2015, this architectural marvel has quickly become a popular attraction, providing a thrilling experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
After our visit to the Geierlay Bridge, we continue to our first overnight destination: Braubach. This charming town captures medieval allure with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture. Take the time to explore boutiques, cafes, and local shops, immersing yourself in the authentic culture of the town.
Day 2 – Marksburg, Dinkholder Tal, Filsen
Today’s hike starts with a visit to Marksburg Castle, a majestic fortress with historic tales, revealing the region’s rich history in a concise yet captivating manner. Stories of knights and nobility come to life inside, showcasing the castle’s strategic importance throughout the ages.
Continuing our hike, the trail then takes us to the serene Dinkholder Tal forest, with strategic viewpoints along the way providing stunning vistas of the winding river. This is followed by a climb to the 282-meter view mountain, rewarding you with a stunning panorama.
We then follow the path over Osterspai, through fields and vineyards, to reach Filsen. This unique town boasts a rich history and is known for its picturesque landscapes and charming wine culture. From Filsen, we take the train, making our way back to Braubach for the second night.
Day 3 – Burg Liebenstein & Kestert
On the third day we board a train from Braubach to Filsen, continuing our Rheinsteig adventure. The journey begins with a challenging climb, offering splendid views of Boppard and the bustling Rhine. Don’t forget to take a break along the way when you come across the cozy terrace of Burg Liebenstein. This captivating place, known as the ‘Brother’s Castle,’ is a must-visit for any history enthusiast out there.
Continuing after our break, we reach Kestert, a charming village by the river where we spend the third night. Known for its rich history, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered houses, Kestert seamlessly blends tradition with modern comforts. Explore local eateries for regional delights and savor a moonlit stroll along the riverbank to immerse yourself in Kestert’s charm.
Day 4 – Oberkestert, Burg Maus, St. Goarshausen
After breakfast, we prepare ourselves for a challenging climb ahead. Fortunately, coffee awaits us in Oberkestert, a quaint village along the Rhine River. With its charming streets and historic appeal, it’s the perfect spot to recharge before continuing our hike.
Next, we wander through beautiful forests and flat farmland, enjoying expansive views. After a steep descent, we reach the former watermills of Wellmicher Bach. From there, we’ll climb our way to Burg Maus. This medieval fortress, dating back to the 14th century, served as a toll station and stands proudly overlooking the Rhine River.
A couple of kilometers further, we arrive at St. Goarshausen, where we’ll be spending our fourth night. St. Goarshausen is a charming town known for its picturesque setting and historic landmarks. One of the notable attractions is the iconic Lorelei Rock, which we’ll be visiting the next day.
Day 5 – Lorelei Rock, Kaub, Burg Pfalzgrafenstein
Today’s hike begins with a challenging ascent to the iconic Lorelei Rock, a steep slate formation towering approximately 433 feet above the river. This legendary rock is immersed in folklore and is linked to enchanting tales that have fascinated visitors for centuries. To fully appreciate this spot, consider starting your day early to avoid crowds and savor the experience in a more tranquil setting.
Continuing along the trail takes us through vineyards and quiet forests, offering repeated views of this narrow section of the Rhine Valley. After passing the village of Dörscheid, you can enjoy a panoramic view from a great height of the half-timbered town of Kaub, where we’ll be spending our last night.
If you arrive on time in Kaub, consider a boat trip to Burg Pfalzgrafenstein. This medieval fortress, built in 1326-1327 on a small Rhine River island, offers impressive architecture and a unique historical experience. Explore the central tower, defensive walls, and historic interiors to learn about its role in controlling river traffic.
Day 6 – Bacharach, Oberwesel, Boppard
On our last day, as the hike concludes and we make our way back to Braubach (in case you left your car there), you have a couple of options. You can extend your journey with an extra day in Kaub or explore beautiful destinations across the Rhine by boat, such as Bacharach and Oberwesel. Alternatively, you can also venture to the enchanting town of Boppard.
Bacharach, a historical town in the Rhineland-Palatinate region, is renowned for its medieval architecture. Nestled along the Rhine River and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Bacharach boasts half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and a medieval town wall offering panoramic views of vineyards and the river.
Continuing downstream, Oberwesel awaits with its intact medieval fortifications, including city walls, towers, and gates. History enthusiasts can explore the Schönburg Castle, which offers guided tours providing insights into medieval life and architecture.
In Boppard, don’t miss the Sesselbahn (cable ride) for a unique perspective of the town and its surroundings. Nestled in the picturesque Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Boppard also features the Romanesque Carmelite Church, Electoral Castle, and the Rhine Museum, offering a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and an exciting cable ride experience.
Summary
I hope you enjoyed reading about our adventure as much as we loved experiencing this hike. Whether you love nature, history, or simply seek a memorable experience, the Rheinsteig Trail has something special to offer. With picturesque views, charming villages, and glimpses into the region’s rich heritage, every step of this hiking adventure is filled with beauty and discovery. 🇩🇪
TRAVEL TIPS BY DANNY 
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