Hiking around Rothenburg

Exploring Franconia on foot

Start your journey of discovery through Franconia right from Hotel Rappen and explore the many hiking trails around Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Whether it’s family-friendly routes with stunning viewpoints or challenging trails for passionate hikers – once your boots are laced up, you’re ready to go.

On the trail of the pilgrims

Jakobsweg in Rothenburg

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, often referred to as “Franconian Jerusalem”, is an important junction for pilgrims on the Way of St James. No fewer than six of these historic routes converge here, including the Middle Franconian Way of St James, which leads from Nuremberg to Rothenburg and is considered the oldest designated Way of St James in Germany. Follow the paths that have linked pilgrims from all over Europe since the Middle Ages and lead, among other places, right through the historic old town of Rothenburg.

More about the Ways of St James

Architectural masterpieces

To the Rothenburg mills

On the Taubermühlenweg, you’ll be left marvelling at every turn. There are more than 50 traditional mills in a wide variety of architectural styles to discover. This historic walk takes you from the Rossmühle in Rothenburg’s Spitalgasse to the Bronnenmühle, passing impressive grain, gypsum and saw mills along the way. You can easily divide the mills trail into stages – otherwise you might not see the wood for the trees, or rather the paths for all the mills.

More about the mills walk

On the trail of old love letters

Postbotenweg

The Postbotenweg tells stories from days gone by. Follow in the footsteps of the old postmen through the Tauber Valley forest to the charming Hohbach Valley, along the same route where letters and parcels were once delivered on foot or by bicycle. The route is available in a longer version of just under 14 km or, for more leisurely walkers, a “short version” of 7 km. Whichever route you choose, both are well worth it!

Active and connected

Hiking weeks in Rothenburg

Every spring and autumn, the hiking weeks in Rothenburg ob der Tauber invite you to enjoy active relaxation. Join guided walks with fascinating themes, enjoy a varied supporting programme and meet new hiking friends during shared breaks and stop-offs. All walks are free of charge and open to anyone who enjoys being outdoors on foot.

Dates of the hiking weeks in Rothenburg ob der Tauber 2025

Spring hiking week:
22.03–30.03.2025

Autumn hiking week:
11–19.10.2025

Art and history

On the Detwang trail

The Detwang trail, also known as the Riemenschneiderweg, takes you at a gentle pace along well-maintained paths into the Tauber Valley, passing several cultural highlights. For example, stop off at three impressive churches featuring works by the medieval sculptor Riemenschneider and discover the roots of the town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Off to Detwang

Hiking pleasures for young and old, families and friends

Endless hiking happiness

If you love hiking, you’ll adore Rothenburg. From here, countless varied hiking trails set off that will delight every nature lover. For example, explore the short Tauber Valley hike, enjoy the discovery-rich circular route into the Steinbach Valley or follow the idyllic Leuzenbronn trail. These varied tours offer the perfect route for every level and interest.

Discover more hikes

Unspoilt nature

Natursteig circular trail

The Natursteig circular trail leads you through shady mixed forests above the Tauber and Schandtauber rivers. This is one of our favourite routes in summer, when temperatures soar. Discover old mills, abandoned quarries and abundant nature. The original route is just over 7 kilometres long, but you can shorten it by around 2 km if your legs feel a little heavier than usual or if there are reluctant hikers in the group who still don’t want to miss out on fresh air and exercise.

Ready, set, hike!

Well-fuelled for your tour

Picnic basket & hiking map

When you’re hiking, you need strength in your legs! Our lovingly prepared picnic basket provides you with delicious snacks and refreshing treats along the way. Whether you’re taking a break in the countryside or a relaxing rest at a viewpoint – we’ll make sure you’re well supplied. You can pre-order your picnic basket at our reception up to one day in advance.
In addition, hiking maps are available at reception so you can plan your tours perfectly and stay on track.