Saar-Hunsrück Climb - 13th Leg: Idar-Oberstein (Altstadt) - Fischbach – Herrstein

From the old town of Oberstein, the route goes steeply uphill past the Felsenkirche to the castle. The Felsenkirche is the sacred landmark of Idar-Oberstein. It was built around 60 metres high in the rocks in 1482-1484 as atonement for a fratricide. From there we walk parallel to the dream loop "Nahe-Felsenweg". The path leads along narrow paths over spectacular rock formations with great views into the Nahe valley. After a long ascent, a very natural passage begins with beautiful quiet brook valleys, old forests and crossing mountain ranges with wonderful views. The stage is very demanding due to its length and some steep climbs. If you do not want to walk it in one piece, you can find accommodation at the tourist information offices. In Fischbach it is worth visiting the copper mine, which can be reached via an access road. At the end of the stage we reach the medieval town of Herrstein with its numerous half-timbered houses.

Hiking boots required!

Our tips for carefree hiking pleasure:

Hiking is the perfect sport. With the right clothes and shoes it is twice as much fun. Functional clothing, poles and breathable backpacks are pleasant when hiking. But good shoes are indispensable. For longer walks, we recommend sturdy hiking boots with non-slip soles. Also remember to bring sunscreen and a drink. A litre of water is ideal.

The Saar-Hunsrück Climb is a near-natural trail, 65% of which is over soft forest soil, grassy paths or along streams. However, this special quality can also lead to problems after longer periods of rain and make parts of the trail difficult to walk on. Therefore, sturdy shoes are highly recommended.

A 62 to Birkenfeld exit, continue towards Birkenfeld B41 to Idar-Oberstein "Festhallenknoten" exit, follow municipal parking guidance system

Idar-Oberstein railway station, continue with city transport lines 801/802/805/806/870 to the municipal theatre. Or walk 500 metres from the station.  From the Idar-Oberstein Tourist Information on the Oberstein market square (near the German Mineral Museum), the access route to the starting point is marked above Idar-Oberstein Castle.

Direct journey from Idar-Oberstein railway station to Oberstein Castle possible via call bus 829.

Timetable at www.rnn.info. 

Return journey from Herrstein to Idar-Oberstein with bus lines 855, 856 (call bus).

We recommend planning the connections with www.rnn.info

Car park at Idar-Oberstein station

Church-in-the-rocks car park

Old town car park

Nahe Centre car park

Hintertiefenbach car park (via a path)

Copper mine car park

Fischbach (via a path)

Car park Brühlstr., Herrstein

Tourist Information EdelSteinLand:

Office Herrstein
Brühlstraße 16
55756 Herrstein
Phone: + 49 (0)6785 - 79 1400

Fax: + 49 6785 - 79 8 1400
info@edelsteinland.de
www.edelsteinland.de

Office Idar-Oberstein
Hauptstraße 419
55743 Idar-Oberstein
Phone + 49 (0) 6781 - 64 6040

Fax: + 49 6781 - 64 9514
info@edelsteinland.de
www.edelsteinland.de

At the end of the stage, the historic town centre with 60 restored half-timbered houses awaits you.

A short tour is worthwhile!