Kircheib - AK Bike Route 1 " Churches and other Antiquities"

Description

Bike route 1 is one of eight signposted small bike routes around Altenkirchen in the Westerwald.

It combines sporting activity on the bike with scenic and cultural sights. The route, which is signposted in one direction only, through the gently rolling landscape, is not very long and offers many exciting stops. Therefore, it is definitely manageable even for less experienced cyclists. The route runs on paved agricultural paths or on low-traffic village connecting roads.
On this route, we can not only get to know a very scenic region but also pass through idyllic villages and discover cultural highlights that have so far been known to only a few. So real little insider tips along the way.

Approach

Kircheib is located directly on the B8 and is easily accessible by car from the direction of Cologne/Bonn.

Parking

Free parking at the village entrance (near the cemetery), opposite Hauptstr. 58, 57635 Kircheib

Directions

The bike route leads us from Kircheib to Neuenhof, where once an early medieval castle complex, the Motte Broichhausen, stood. An approximately 5 m high dwelling mound and remains of a moat recall this motte-and-bailey castle. The short detour there is marked with signposts.

In Neuenhof itself, we pass the Elvis Museum of Jonny Winters. It is only open on certain days, but maybe we are lucky. We pass through the villages of Hirz-Maulsbach and then descend into the Mehrbach valley. Past the former Hardtmühle (first mentioned already in the 14th century) and onward to Mehren, one of the most beautiful half-timbered villages in the Westerwald. The town center is a protected monument.

The Mehren church (from the 12th century) is a typical example of a basilica and is considered a document of Romanesque architecture. The half-timbered upper structure is rather rare for these churches, but back then it was the most economical way to enlarge the nave.

Slightly below the church, we should definitely also visit the "Bullesje", an old village prison from the 15th/16th century. In the rear vaulted room, go up the small steps on the right and then left into the old dungeon - this must be seen.

Before reaching Kircheib after a few kilometers, you can make a detour to Schulstrasse to see the old village bakery there, whose function is gladly tried out at village festivals.
Before you head back, we also recommend visiting the Romanesque church in Kircheib (Kirchstraße). Like a small castle complex, this building has stood at this location since the 12th century.

Tips

Those looking for a longer bike route can easily connect the bike route 3 (15 km) from Mehren. Some climbs but also great descents are added.

Destination

Hiking parking lot at the cemetery Kircheib

Starting Point

Hiking parking lot at the cemetery Kircheib