Choose from a range of routes around Reutin, from a short circular trail with views as far as Hohenzollern Castle to a longer route to waterfalls. The higher-lying district is still shaped by agriculture and was first mentioned in official records in 1360. When planning, it is worth paying particular attention to walking time, elevation gain and the route conditions specified for each trail.
Rural character and local history
Reutin combines a rural character with several circular trails and historic traces. The old Waghäusle on the Schillerlinde circular trail recalls the area’s agricultural past: farmers once used it to weigh their harvests and livestock. Its first recorded mention in 1360 adds to the picture of the district’s history, without requiring a separate visit to a museum.
Choose circular trails by duration and elevation profile
The Zollernblick circular trail around Reutin is 2.9 kilometres long and takes about 40 minutes. It is considered easy to walk and is suitable for pushchairs. Along the way, it passes the Hofwäldlehütte; on a clear day, the view extends as far as Hohenzollern Castle. This shorter route therefore combines a manageable walking time with a view that depends explicitly on clear conditions.
At 5.1 kilometres and about 1 hour and 15 minutes, the Schillerlinde circular trail is longer. The ascent and descent are each listed as 48 metres. A viewpoint offers a wide view of the Kinzig Valley; the old Waghäusle, with its former agricultural function, is also along the route. This trail thus combines scenery with a historic point of interest.
The Wasserfall circular trail covers 6.3 kilometres, takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and has 130 metres of ascent and descent each. Near Reutin, the trail reaches the Gräbenbach waterfalls via a 1.5-metre-wide, easily walkable path. Check the route conditions before setting out, as they can change.
For comparison when planning your time, the Zollernblick circular trail is the shortest of the three routes listed here with durations. The Schillerlinde and Wasserfall circular trails each take just over an hour, but differ in elevation profile: 48 metres versus 130 metres on both the ascent and descent. These details provide a concrete basis for choosing a route based on the time available and elevation change.
Starting point, pushchairs and reservations on request
The circular trail around Reutin and Peterzell starts at the Reutin local administration office, where free parking is available. After about ten minutes, the route crosses a small bridge over the Wäschbach. The trail is suitable for pushchairs, with one exception: an approximately 100-metre section in the area of the Wäschbach and the Wäschbach bridge. Take this section into account when deciding on your route.
Another practical option when planning is the Zimmerplatz barbecue area with the Hofwäldlehütte in Reutin. It can be reserved on request. If you would like to include this spot in your plans, arrange the reservation in advance; reservations are available on request.
Culture in the wider destination of Alpirsbach
The wider destination of Alpirsbach offers cultural attractions as a separate addition. The abbey church, dedicated to Saint Nicholas, was built between 1125 and 1133 in the Romanesque tradition. Since 1952, cloister concerts have been held in the Gothic cloister of the former Benedictine monastery. This history offers a different focus from the circular trails around Reutin: architecture and music rather than walking time and elevation profile.
The historic Alpirsbach print shop demonstrates how book printing works; visitors can also plan and carry out their own printing projects there. The Museum of Local History next to the monastery complex illustrates the development of the town of Alpirsbach through selected collectibles. Professional guided town tours led by local guides focus on a range of themes. If you would like to plan a tour, confirm the date with the town information office.
For the wider travel overview: Alpirsbach.
