Circular trail 11 Esthal

This varied circular route shows you Esthal from all its most beautiful sides: natural monuments, historic fountains, quiet forest paths and wonderful views alternate over 18.4 kilometers. With 337 meters of elevation gain, the route is manageable and can be comfortably explored in two loops.

Start at Esthal town square

The tour starts at the town square in the heart of Esthal. From here, you first hike a short stretch through the town and follow the signs towards the memorial stone "Schäfers Grab". Soon you leave the last houses behind and enter the quiet forest landscape.

To the Mittleren Gleisberg and the water stones

A steady ascent leads you up to the Mittleren Gleisberg. The path runs pleasantly through mixed forest and repeatedly opens small views into the valley. At the top, continue towards the legendary water stones – an impressive rock formation that has always sparked people’s imagination.

After a short rest, the path leads you back and circles the last section of the Mittleren Gleisberg. Over a gentle ascent you finally return towards Esthal.

Along with the audio tour "Eight O'clock Bells"

A part of the route accompanies the audio tour "Eight O'clock Bells", which offers exciting insights into the history and traditions of the place. This makes your hike a special experience also acoustically.

You will pass the historic Roman fountain, a quiet witness of past centuries, and continue hiking to the legendary Henkmantels-Loog, where border markers once had their place.

Up to the Mollenkopf

Now it becomes scenic once again: The path leads you up the Mollenkopf mountain. Here you will find several special places such as the Stone of Encounter and the mystical dolmen, a stone relic of past cultures. These places radiate a very special atmosphere and invite you to pause.

Taubenplatz rest area and Wögelbrunnen

Then it goes downhill to the idyllic Taubenplatz rest area – perfect for a break in the green. From here, you hike past the Wögelbrunnen and reach the ASV Esthal inn – a good opportunity to stop for refreshment if you wish.

Tränkenbrunnen and return to town square

At the end, there is another short ascent for you. A worthwhile detour leads you to the Tränkenbrunnen, an old wash fountain that was once an important meeting point in village life.

From here it is not far back to the starting point at Esthal town square.

Circular Trail 11 combines nature experience, history and quiet forest moments into a thoroughly enjoyable tour in the Elmsteiner Valley. Ideal for everyone who wants to discover Esthal step by step.