The Palatinate Forest Trail – the idyllic woodlands of the Palatinate

Spectacular crags, deep valleys and forest as far as the eye can see? It must be the Palatinate Forest Trail.

Take a walk along the Palatinate Forest Trail to experience unspoilt woodland, the tranquillity of nature and sweeping views across the largest unbroken expanse of forest in Germany. The peacefulness and beauty of this pristine scenery will give you the energy you need to explore the extensive woodland paths. The Sustainability House at Johanniskreuz presents everything you need to know on the fascinating subject of 'man and nature'. The staggering view from Luitpold tower at the top of Weissenberg hill will certainly leave an impression – on a fine day you can see more than 300 peaks. If your walking shoes have given up the ghost, you won't have to look far to find a new pair in the shoe-shopping paradise of Hauenstein. In Dahn cliff country, walkers can explore unusual rock formations and a dramatic landscape that is home to Drachenfels ruins with its staircases carved into the rock, and Berwartstein Castle – the quintessential romantic castle. The trail ends at the German Wine Gate in Schweigen.

Tip:

Sustainability House in Johanniskreuz:

The central focus of the Palatinate Forest/Northern Vosges Mountains biosphere reserve. The various events and exhibitions, as well as the building's eco design, help visitors make sense of the concept of sustainability.

At a glance:

Starts and ends: Kaiserslautern – Schweigen-Rechtenbach

Length: 143km

Number of stages: 9

Altitude variation (approximate values): ascent 4,500m, descent 4,500m

Terrain: 64% unmade, 12% asphalt, 24% other, e.g. gravel