Walk between Lambach and Siersthal

Park at the side of Rue des Chalets in a space that can easily accommodate two or three vehicles

(S/E) Start the climb through the woodland.

(1) Carry on straight ahead; the return route will be via the path coming from your right.

(2) At the hut, walk past it and carry on straight ahead to the next crossroads, where you’ll find a wayside cross. Take the path on your right to the next crossroads, where you should follow the path on the left and join a stretch of road leading to the fields. Turn left.

(3) At the wayside cross, turn right onto an unpaved track which soon joins a road. Veer left then carry on straight ahead to head back into the woodland.

(4) At the junction after a short, somewhat challenging descent, turn right, going round the remains of an old stone hut, then follow the valley with the stream on your left.

(5) Look to your left into the paddock, where you might spot some Scottish cattle. Then rejoin the road and enter the village of Siersthal via Rue de la Vallée. At the junction, turn right onto Rue Principale.

(6) Continue left along the road, cross the Schwalb and follow it until you reach the edge of the village. You’ll pass some fountains and a playground along the way. You’ll come to the junction after the cemetery.

(7) Leave the road by turning right. At the bend, take the path on the left to re-enter the forest. As you climb, you’ll see a magnificent rock on your left.
Carry straight on, ignoring the path that winds steeply uphill to your right: from here, you’ll have a view overlooking the village centre and its church.

(1) Turn left to return to your starting point (S/E).

Up on the hills, in hot summer weather, make sure you bring a bottle of water and a cap.
The water from the fountains along your route is not safe to drink.
Avoid sandals and opt for sturdy shoes. They don’t necessarily have to be hiking boots.

On the first uphill section, keep your eyes peeled – there are some strange creatures to spot in the trees: a tiger, a monkey, a heron…
Up on the heights, there’s a hut with a table and bench where you can have a snack.
On the final climb, there’s a magnificent rock to admire.