The Katzenbuckel gives Waldbrunn a distinctive natural landmark: at 626 metres, it is the highest mountain in the Odenwald and also the remnant of a Cretaceous volcanic vent. Other highlights include the hiking trails, seasonal winter activities, the Katzenbuckel-Therme and churches in Strümpfelbrunn and Waldkatzenbach. This makes it easy to explore Waldbrunn through its landscapes, outdoor activities or culture. When choosing a destination, the main consideration is which of these options suits your travel plans; the winter activities are expressly dependent on snow conditions.

Katzenbuckel: Geology and Views

The Katzenbuckel is not only the highest mountain in the Odenwald, but also a geological site: it is the remnant of a Cretaceous volcanic vent. The Neckartal-Odenwald Nature Park offers themed walks, adventure trails and educational trails focusing on the landscape, nature and culture. In the wider destination of the Neckar-Odenwald district, the “Path of Crystals” geological nature trail complements this theme. It explains how the Katzenbuckel was formed from an extinct volcano. The mountain and the educational trail thus offer different ways to explore its origins: the geological classification of the Katzenbuckel and how this is presented on a nature trail.

A historic sandstone observation tower stands on the Katzenbuckel. Built in 1820, it is 18 metres high. From the tower, the view stretches across the Itter Valley, Taunus, Spessart, Bauland, Kraichgau and Neckar Valley. This links the history of a specific structure with views across several landscapes.

Hiking and Winter Activities

A network of more than 130 kilometres of marked hiking trails extends around the Katzenbuckel. This distance refers to the trail network, not to a single route. As routes may change, check the current trail directions before setting out.

Four cross-country ski trails in Waldbrunn are listed, ranging from easy to moderately difficult. They can be used when there is sufficient snow and in accordance with the signs, so check snow conditions and notices before travelling. When there is snow, children can go sledging on the Katzenbuckel. There is also an old ski jump there. Horse-riding excursions are offered by the Waldbrunn climatic health resort; check providers and availability before your trip. These activities mainly differ in their requirements: cross-country skiing and sledging need sufficient snow, while horse-riding excursions depend on providers and availability.

Thermal Baths and Churches

The Katzenbuckel-Therme has a relaxation pool, a bio sauna, an outdoor pool open year-round, a swimming pool and a children’s area. The tourist information office is also located in the thermal baths and provides detailed information about leisure activities around Waldbrunn. Facilities and access arrangements may change; if you plan to visit the tourist information office, check its current service information too.

The churches in Strümpfelbrunn and Waldkatzenbach tell different stories of their construction. The Art Nouveau church in Strümpfelbrunn dates from 1916. The church in Waldkatzenbach was built by the von Göler family and completed in 1746. The family’s coats of arms can still be seen on its pulpit. This comparison brings together a 20th-century building, an older history of construction and a family emblem that is still visible today.

Regional Food in the Neckar-Odenwald District

Beyond Waldbrunn, the wider destination of the Neckar-Odenwald district offers further ideas for planning your trip. At farmers’ markets and farm-direct sales days in the Neckar-Odenwald district, visitors can talk to producers, ask questions and sample regional foods. Check dates and locations in advance. The annual “Brunch on the Farm” is also part of the region’s offerings. Local products such as smoked trout, tangy cheese and homemade bread are served there; check event dates and participating farms before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Neckarzimmern, Schefflenz, Buchen, Obrigheim, Osterburken, Hettigenbeuern, Schwarzach, Elztal

To the wider travel overview: Neckar-Odenwald district.