Off to the Middle Ages! Today marks the king's stage, a truly challenging 21 km trek with over 800 meters of elevation gain. But this varied route from Trechtingshausen through the Bingen Forest to Bacharach is record-breaking in another way: an impressive five castles and ruins line the path, truly living up to the name of the Rhine Castle Trail!
To start off, Oberwesel surprises with a fantastic passage along the upper city wall before the trail heads into the vineyards north of the town. From there, instead of taking the Ölsbergsteig, you hike up to the Günderodehaus. The journey continues via the Troll-Pfad (Troll Path) to the Skulpturenweg (Sculpture Trail), an entertaining stretch that leads to the Beuslberg hut, where the Ölsbergsteig route reconnects. You then enjoy a relaxed walk along the clifftop to Maria Ruh, a wonderful place for a break directly across from the Loreley. Finally, the route leads through the Lohbach Valley down into St. Goar.
The 7th stage begins in the timber-framed idyll of Rhens, tempting hikers with a short climb and a detour to the Königsstuhl (King’s Seat). Following this, lush orchards and varied woodlands ensure an entertaining hike until Stolzenfels Castle presents itself as the next worthwhile detour. You then traverse the forest to reach the Dommelsberg, passing ancient Celtic traces before arriving at the Rittersturz.