HW 1 - Schwäbische-Alb-Nordrand-Weg
The place
hiking trail in Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Why go
Hohenzollern Castle (ancestral seat of the imperial dynasty). Lichtenstein Castle (overlooking the Echaz valley). Beuron Abbey (Benedictine monastery in the Danube valley). Großes Lautertal nature reserve. Sigmaringen with its castle.
A bit of history
The Swabian Jura has been the core region of Swabian culture since the Neolithic era. The oldest artworks in the world were found here (the Lion Man, the Venus of Hohle Fels — both part of the UNESCO World Heritage caves of the Swabian Jura). Medieval castles and monasteries bear witness to the history of the Hohenstaufen and Hohenzollern dynasties.
Getting there
Donauwörth: train station (Augsburg 30 min). Tuttlingen: train station (Stuttgart 1h30). Easily reached by train.
Recommended gear
Light hiking shoes. Rain gear. Swabian Jura hiking map.
Best season
March to November. Spring and autumn ideal. Juniper heathlands especially beautiful in September.