The Rennsteig - the most popular long-distance hiking trail in Germany

The path curves over sandy hills through shrubs and boulders. On the right there is a breathtaking view between huge granite boulders. The clouds are gathering on the horizon. Despite aching feet and a heavy backpack, the wide view lures you to climb the smooth rock. Wind blows in your face and in the distance you can see the gray veil of rain in the air, so far away it will never reach you. The Rennsteig already casts a spell over you on the first stage - and doesn't let go for days.

The Rennsteig

The old trade route, marked with the famous "R", is not only the oldest, but also the most popular long-distance hiking trail in Germany. 100,000 hikers commit it every year.

"Gut Runst!" - that is the traditional greeting on the Rennsteig. The Kammweg begins in Hörschel near Eisenach on the banks of the Werra and ends after 168.3 km in Blankenstein at the Selbitz Bridge. With a short detour to Bavaria, it takes you straight through Thuringia. The hiking trail was not created artificially, as is so often the case today, but developed from old traditions.

History

The history of the Rennsteig begins 700 years ago. In the Middle Ages it marked the border between the Duchy of Franconia and the Landgraviate of Thuringia. This is still proven today by the numerous border climbs along the way, today often also called Rennsteigsteine. Particularly noteworthy are the 13 Dreiherrensteine, 10 of which still appear along the way. Today, the route along the former German-German border not only offers an insight into the history of our country, but is also an important retreat for nature.

The old border path is recommended for the first long-distance hike, as there is a good infrastructure, places to stop for refreshments and numerous accommodations. It is not absolutely necessary to take camping equipment with you. Many tour operators and guesthouses also offer luggage transport from accommodation to accommodation.

It's also great for beginners that you climb most of the vertical meters on the first day and then mostly walk along the chain of hills, so you don't have to climb anymore. Eight to 11 sections are common for beginners, advanced hikers can also manage six Sections, which also corresponds to the Rennsteig tradition, the "Runst".

The traditional Rennsteig Run in six stages:

1. 32.8 km from Hörschel to the Großer Inselsberg
2. 30.8 km from the Großer Inselsberg to Oberhof
3. 27.0 km from Oberhof to Kahlert
4. 19.7 km from Kahlert to Limbach
5. 30.0 km from Limbach to Steinbach am Wald
< li>28.0 km from Steinbach am Wald to Blankenstein

Equipment

The Rennsteig offers well-maintained hiking trails, narrow paths and ravines. If you don't carry too heavy a pack, you'll be fine with well-worn, but not too old, hiking boots.

Walking and sports shoes are not suitable. It is advisable for long-distance hikers to buy trekking socks to prevent blisters. Nevertheless, don't forget the pavement! The path leads up to almost 1000 meters altitude and the ridge location favors rapid weather changes. Rainwear and something warm to wear should also be with you in summer.

Accommodation, lodging and meals

There are supermarkets in Neustadt am Rennsteig, in Neuhaus am Rennweg and Steinbach am Wald, and there are numerous places to stop for refreshments along the route. Especially on Sundays and public holidays, it is important that everyone has a daily ration of water with them, because sometimes you don't leave the forest for hours.

In general, there are accommodations in almost all towns and communities on the Rennsteig. The start and finish locations of the traditional Runst offer the greatest range, but individual planning is also possible. The accommodations are generally very inexpensive and the Thuringian people on the Rennsteig are very hospitable. Addresses of pensions can be found at rennsteig.de.

Sights on the Rennsteig

There are numerous sights not only directly along the route, but also in the neighboring communities. Signs usually indicate this. This also includes the ski jump and the Olympic center in Oberhof. The historic Wartburg in Eisenach is not directly on the path, but you should definitely take it with you before or after the hike.

Key data Rennsteig:

Recommended reading:

More information:

rennsteig.de and rennsteigverein.de