Rennsteig Trail: Germany's oldest long-distance walking route

For centuries, the Rennsteig served as a route for merchants and messengers. First mentioned in records in 1330, it has retained its air of mystery, particularly as only parts of it were accessible during the 40-odd years when Germany was divided.

Tip

Wartburg Castle in Eisenach World Heritage site since 1999
The minnesinger contest, St. Elisabeth's life and work, Martin Luther's translation of the New Testament, the German student fraternities' festival and Wagner's romantic opera Tannhäuser all combine to make Wartburg Castle an outstanding monument of German history and culture.

At a glance

• Starts: Hörschel
• Ends: Blankenstein
• Length: 168.3km
• Number of stages: 6
• Altitude variation (approximate values): Ascent 5,000m, descent 4,800m
• Terrain: 51% unmade, 7% asphalt, 42% other, e.g. gravel