Hohenstein: Tours, Nature and History

Hohenstein is a destination for travelers who want to spend their time hiking, cycling and enjoying nature. The tours vary in length, elevation gain and mode of travel; there are also Hohenstein Castle Ruins, the nature experience trail and a cultural memorial site in Bernloch. You can choose according to whether you are looking for a mountain bike loop described as challenging, a relatively flat route, a trail with opportunities for observing nature or a place with local history. The differences below will help you choose activities for your stay.

Tours on Foot, by Bike and on Skates

Hohenstein has various circular walking routes where you can explore the villages and surrounding area. Cross-country ski trails are also groomed when there is sufficient snow; this option explicitly depends on snow conditions. So when planning a winter outing, check the current snow conditions.

The challenging West mountain bike tour is 32.3 kilometers long and has about 450 meters of elevation gain. Its stated highlights include Dachenstein, Hohenstein Castle Ruins, the Maßhalderbuch estate and the Oberstetter Valley. The starting point is Brechhölze in Bernloch. The length, elevation gain and named stops give the loop a clear profile. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

The East mountain bike tour is a 24-kilometer route with 390 meters of elevation gain. It runs from the farmhouse museum in Ödenwaldstetten via Schachen into the Lauter Valley to Wasserstetten, extending beyond Hohenstein. As a shorter alternative, a shortcut runs through the Amsel Valley instead of via Schachen. Comparing the two mountain bike routes, the West route is longer than the East at 32.3 kilometers; their stated elevation gains also differ, at about 450 and 390 meters respectively. The East route also has a named shortcut option.

Another kind of loop is the “Around Hohenstein” tour. It is relatively flat, 30 kilometers long and can be done by bicycle or inline skates. According to the tour description, it is well suited to families. Its stated length falls between the two mountain bike routes; the description also specifically mentions inline skates and the relatively flat terrain.

The health hiking trail leads to Ödenwaldstetten. It invites visitors to experience the landscape, fauna, flora, trail conditions and views with all their senses. This hike centers on consciously noticing your surroundings.

Castle Ruins and Nature Experiences

Hohenstein Castle Ruins stand near Oberstetten in a forest among moss-covered boulders and gnarled trees. The grounds have an observation platform and a barbecue area. This brings together views of the historic ruins, their forest setting and two specific facilities on site.

The nature experience trail passes partly through the Bauenhofen/Häulesrain nature reserve. The trail runs through the protected area for only part of its route. Those interested in nature and landscapes can also take the health hiking trail, which focuses on experiencing and observing flora, fauna, trail conditions and views.

A Cultural Landmark in Bernloch

Local cultural history also has a specific home: the Hans Reyhing Room was established in 1985 in memory of Bernloch local poet Hans Reyhing. The date and commemorative purpose make the room a cultural landmark in Bernloch. Together with the castle ruins and the tours, it gives you a choice of nature, activity and regional history when planning your visit.

In the Wider Reutlingen Destination

The wider Reutlingen destination offers other distinct cultural highlights. The Minster of Our Lady is at the center of the old monastery and pilgrimage site of Zwiefalten and is one of the most important examples of German late Baroque architecture. Concerts are held in the minster every year; dates vary. Lichtenstein Castle was built from 1840 to 1842 on the foundations of an older knights’ castle. These regional themes add church and castle history to the picture of Reutlingen.

Discover More Destinations

Ödenwaldstetten, Reutlingen, Zwiefalten, Grafenberg, Pfronstetten, Mehrstetten, Engstingen, Hülben

Back to the wider travel overview: Reutlingen.