A prominent viewpoint, trails of varying lengths and cultural attractions give Kirchen (Sieg) a clear focus for a trip. Hiking options range from a 16-kilometre loop to a 600-metre historic Stations of the Cross route. Museums in Kirchen and Freusburg add to the options. When planning, you can decide whether hiking, history or a combination of both should take centre stage.

Trails and viewpoints

The 19-metre-high Ottoturm tower stands on the 405-metre-high Kahlberg. From there, views extend towards the Siegtal valley, Freusburg and the Westerwald. These elevations put the viewpoint in context, while the named sights give a visit a distinct scenic focus.

The 16-kilometre Wäller Tour Druidenstein circular hiking trail starts and ends in Kirchen. It climbs to the 517-metre summit of Windhahn and continues to the Druidenstein natural monument. This lies at about 450 metres above sea level and is said to be between 1 and 25 million years old.

The Historic Stations of the Cross from Herkersdorf to the Druidenstein is a much shorter route: it is 600 metres long and includes 14 grottoes dating from the 1920s. This gives you a choice between a long circular hike and a short, historically themed route, with a clear difference in length. Check current trail conditions before setting out on a specific hike.

Museums and history

The Museum of the City of Kirchen is at Wiesenstraße 7. In Freusburg, the Otto-Pfeiffer Museum is at Burgstraße 11. Freusburg Castle is said to be more than 1,000 years old and stands above the Siegtal valley. The two museum addresses and the castle offer different ways to add a cultural focus to your stay. If you are planning a museum visit, it is a good idea to check the current visitor access arrangements.

Getting here and finding your way around

Kirchen station is directly connected to the Cologne–Au–Siegen railway line, served by the RE9 Rhein-Sieg-Express. Bus routes serving Kirchen include 290, 291 and 294 to 296. As transport services can change, check the current timetables before travelling.

The Tourist Information Centre in the centre of Kirchen offers hiking and cycling suggestions, as well as brochures, flyers and maps. Its regional corner features local products such as beer, honey and liqueur, along with alpaca goods; the selection may vary.

More to explore in the wider Altenkirchen destination

The wider Altenkirchen destination also has its own historical attractions. In Flammersfeld, Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen founded the “Flammersfeld Support Association for the Assistance of Indigent Farmers” in 1849, the world’s first loan fund association.

Marienthal is another cultural highlight. The Klosterdorfweg trail leads around the former Franciscan monastery through the shady spa forest of the Archdiocese of Cologne. Marienthal remains a popular pilgrimage site today. These attractions broaden the picture of Kirchen to include places and history specifically associated with the wider Altenkirchen destination.

Discover more destinations

Friesenhagen, Niederirsen, Hamm, Obererbach, Daaden, Selbach (Sieg), Niederdreisbach, Betzdorf

Back to the wider travel overview: Altenkirchen.