H5 - Aar Loop Trail

On the left, we come across a pretty wooden bridge that offers a lovely view of the gently babbling Aar. We continue our hike along the bike path. Later, the path takes a slight right turn, but we continue straight ahead, following the course of the river. On the right is the Hahnstätten sports field; then the view opens up into the Aar Valley, and we find ourselves in the midst of tranquil nature.

Since we’re still on the bike path, a little caution is advised here. A small rest area by the side of the path invites you to take a break. Just before Zollhaus, we pass an attractive playground. Children in particular will enjoy this spot.

We reach Zollhaus at the parking lot of the Kreml Cultural Center, which is a great place to stop for a bite to eat (check opening hours). Here the trails split: Our H5 hiking trail continues to the left along the road, while the H6 branches off to the right.

We follow the road toward Burgschwalbach and later turn left onto Schinnergass. A beautiful sunken path takes us up through the forest. The forest edge that follows marks the end of the only significant climb and opens up a wide view.

Heading toward Kasten, we turn left and stroll along the edge of the forest. At a private property, the trail curves to the right. At the end of the property, we continue straight ahead, ignoring the grassy paths coming from the left and right. Hiking Trail H8 joins us from the right. We turn left onto the now paved path and follow a right-hand curve. We are then treated to a wonderful view of the Aar Valley, the village of Hahnstätten, and the Bieberstein Castle Botanical Garden.

Where the trail ends, we turn left and take a leisurely walk down the hill. Before reaching the cemetery and the chapel, the H8 hiking trail branches off, and we follow the markings for the H5 trail down to the left. At St. Nicholas Church, we keep to the right and continue downhill. We pass a parking lot until we reach the L320 road.

Here, we turn left onto Schulweg. We admire the charming half-timbered town hall and the registry office. At Austraße, we turn right toward the municipal office, pass it, and turn left again at the ice cream parlor. This is a highly recommended place to stop for a break. Jahnstraße finally leads us back to the starting point. To finish up, we cross the Aar one last time and enjoy one final view of the river.