Lahnwanderweg 17th stage Balduinstein – Obernhof

Viewing points line up like pearls on a string in this stage! At the church in Balduinstein, the trail leads up a stairway with a magnificent view to the castle. At the viewing pavilion on Saukopp, a gigantic view of the Lahn loop and Balduinstein awaits. Afterwards, the path runs along the edge of the forest and then through meadows and fields back into the forest to the Gabelstein-Hölloch nature reserve.

The short detour to the shelter on Gabelstein is absolutely worthwhile because here you get the next impressive view. The path continues through the forest and leads down into the "Höllenloch". A small bridge is crossed here, and then follow the markings uphill to Steinsberg. At the entrance to the village, immediately turn right. Across meadows, you reach the edge of the forest.

The Lahn hiking trail descends zigzag to the Rupbach and then uphill. In Laurenburg, you cross the Lahn. Here you have the opportunity to stop for a break, and if needed, the stage can be easily divided in Laurenburg. Afterwards, you hike uphill through the former mining area of Laurenburg. The reward for the effort is two more viewpoints: Marienhöhe and Wolfslei. From here, you pass rock formations and walk a good stretch along the forest edge near Dörnberg. With Liebeslay, another worthwhile view follows. Then the route goes idylically through the forest to Goethepunt. Here, a viewing plateau awaits "TV watchers".

After a long rest before this impressive backdrop, you now have to answer the decisive question: via ferrata yes or no? The more difficult option leads downhill over rope-secured and foot-stable sections. A ladder also has to be overcome. Surefootedness and a certain degree of fear of heights are required here. The easy option is very simple and manageable for everyone. After descending from Goethepunt, the first vineyards come into view. Past cozy wine taverns, you reach the Lahn bridge and the train station.

Possibly trekking poles for two steep ascents and descents. Otherwise, only normal hiking equipment is required. Take a packed lunch and drinks.

The via ferrata (Goethepunkt) requires surefootedness and a head for heights, but there is also an easy (climb-free) alternative. 

For information about detours and path relocations, please check our "Current Notices".

Information about rail network restrictions can be found here.

A 3 Limburg-Nord, B 417, K 26 to Balduinstein, K 25 from Balduinstein to Holzappel, B 417 to Obernhof

By train to Balduinstein and Obernhof, www.bahn.de.

Balduinstein on the Lahn riverbank

Obernhof at the train station or behind the Lahn bridge

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Collect memories with the hiking pass

The free pocket guide "Lahnwanderweg" and more information are available for download under brochures and at

Lahntal Tourism Association e. V.

Brückenstraße 2,

35576 Wetzlar

Tel. 06441-30998-0

www.daslahntal.de

info@daslahntal.de

Tourist information Bad Ems
Bahnhofplatz, 56130 Bad Ems
Tel. 02603-94150

Tourist information Nassau
Obertal 9a, 56377 Nassau
Tel. 02604-95250
www.badems-nassau.info

Along the way, there are various options to stop for refreshments in Laurenburg. Those who prefer it more relaxed can split the route and spend the night after about 10 km in Laurenburg.