Kraichgau Border Trail – Long Circuit, Bad Rappenau

This circular walk near Bad Rappenau takes you through the gentle, rolling hills of the Kraichgau region, with its vast fields, meadows and peaceful woodland sections. The contrast between open views and shady paths at the edge of the forest and within the communal woodland is particularly charming. A lovely highlight along the way is the ‘Steinerne Tisch’ (Stone Table) with its shelter – a great spot for a short break. Anyone who appreciates nature, varied trails and tranquil landscapes will find this a thoroughly enjoyable walk.

A short section of the pan-European Way of St James from Bad Wimpfen to Bad Rappenau. The historical route of the Way of St James from Bad Wimpfen via Bad Rappenau towards Sinsheim is not precisely documented in the archives. However, it is assumed – and historical evidence supports this assumption – that the route followed a long-distance route dating back to prehistoric times, and that it still does so today.

After conquering France, the Romans advanced across the Rhine. The Odenwald Limes was built to secure the route between the Main and Neckar rivers, which were considered natural borders. Built around 85 AD, this border wall was intended to protect the Roman province of Germania Superior. The fifth and final stage of your hike takes you along the former border line from Neckarburken to Neckarzimmern. During this scenically and culturally enriching tour, you will pass the remains of Roman watchtowers, forts (troop quarters), bathing facilities and border fortifications. Informative boards point out the sights and provide insights into life in the former border region.

From Bönnigheim to Michaelsberg – a stunning panoramic view over the Zabergäu, Germany’s oldest adventure park and the Lembergermeer! The path winds its way up to Michaelsberg, past seemingly endless rows of vines, which hang heavy with grapes in summer. Even from a distance, St Michael’s Chapel greets you – a stunning sight, surpassed only by the view once you’ve climbed the hill, which stands at just under 400 metres.

After conquering France, the Romans advanced across the Rhine. The Odenwald Limes was built to secure the route between the Main and Neckar rivers, which were considered natural borders. Built around 85 AD, this border wall was intended to protect the Roman province of Germania Superior. The fourth stage of your hike takes you along the former border line from Limbach-Wagenschwend to Neckarburken. During this scenically and culturally enriching tour, you will pass the remains of Roman watchtowers, forts (troop quarters), bathing facilities and border fortifications. Informative boards point out the sights and provide insights into life in the former border region.

The Katzensteig connects the towns of Eberbach and Neckargerach. This route, which is around 26 kilometres long, is an interesting alternative to stages 5 and 6 of the Neckarsteig and offers a mix of nature, impressive views and cultural attractions.

The Neckarsteig stretches over 128 kilometres from Heidelberg to Bad Wimpfen, winding its way along the majestic Neckar River through the picturesque region of Baden-Württemberg. This route promises an unforgettable journey through a variety of landscapes, from gentle vineyards to imposing rock formations. Along the route, you can expect challenging climbs as well as relaxed sections along the river. You can look forward to varied landscapes ranging from wooded slopes in the Neckar Valley to charming half-timbered towns and historic castles. We have designed the sections so that you can reach every start and end point of a stage by public transport.

Through the Neckar Valley along the Neckarsteig, a quality hiking trail (Qualitätsweg Wanderbares Deutschland) covering around 128 km from Heidelberg to Bad Wimpfen. The long-distance hiking trail can be hiked as a multi-day or day tour. To ensure that this section remains walkable in terms of length, we have made a few adjustments to the route.