The mill hiking trail begins at Sägplatz in Simonswald; from the village center, two other hiking suggestions lead either to the Hofkapelle chapel or to the Ratsstüble inn. There is also the historic Kronen Mill, the listed Ölmühle and Trotte oil mill and wine press, and the Jockenhof village museum. The highlights range from specific trail destinations to local mill history.
Mills and Their History
The Kronen Mill was built around 1800, restored, and rebuilt at Sägplatz in Simonswald. It previously belonged to the Adamhof farm near St. Märgen and was in operation until the 1950s. Its history thus links its former ownership and use with its later reconstruction at Sägplatz.
The Ölmühle and Trotte in Simonswald are a listed historic site dating from the early 18th century. One distinctive feature is the oil mill’s oak press beam: it is 10 meters long, and the year 1712 is carved into it. Guided tours are offered of the grain mill and oil mill. Check the current visitor arrangements before your visit.
Two Hiking Suggestions with Different Destinations
One suggestion leads from the center of Simonswald across the Wilde Gutach and through the Ettersbach valley to the Hofkapelle chapel. Another also starts in the village center, follows Kirchstraße into the Haslachtal valley, and continues along the Paradiesweg to the Ratsstüble inn. The routes and endpoints differ, so you can choose based on whether you prefer the Hofkapelle chapel or the Ratsstüble inn as your destination. Check local trail conditions before setting out.
A Farmhouse That Houses a Museum
The Jockenhof village museum is located in an old farmhouse in the center of Obersimonswald. It is a cultural attraction in its own right, alongside the mills and hiking suggestions. Check the current opening hours before your visit.
Emmendingen as a Regional Backdrop
The wider Emmendingen destination offers additional regional attractions. Emmendingen district has 800 km of hiking trails and routes, as well as more than 900 km of cycle routes, including 250 km of signposted routes. At 1,242 meters, Mount Kandel is the highest mountain in the district. Activities there include downhill ski runs, cross-country ski trails, a snowboard fun park, sledding slopes, and snowshoeing opportunities.
Hochburg Castle also has its own historical significance: it is one of Baden’s largest castle complexes, and the first written record of it dates from 1161. A museum run by the Hochburg Ruins Preservation Association and guided tours add to the cultural offerings. If you are planning a guided tour, check the current dates.
Viticulture is also an important feature of Emmendingen district. The area is part of the Kaiserstuhl and Breisgau wine-growing regions and covers around 2,300 hectares. The region therefore offers a range of themes, including hiking and cycling routes, viticulture, castle history, and winter activities.
Discover more destinations: Endingen am Kaiserstuhl, Riegel Am Kaiserstuhl, Sexau, Teningen, Malterdingen, Bahlingen, Forchheim, Denzlingen
Go to the regional travel overview: Emmendingen.
