Kleiner Wäller Westerburg

Description

Experience a varied walk through history, culture, and nature – on the Kleiner Wäller Westerburg. The trail combines impressive viewpoints, cultural highlights, and quiet forest paths to create an entertaining and challenging circular walk.

Route:

Starting point is the imposing Church of Our Lady, which towers above the town from its elevated position. From here, the trail leads through the residential area past the Christ-König Church, a modern post-war religious building.

The trail continues through the historic old town via the Town Hall Square. The trail winds its way up the Trotzeberg – a steep climb that is rewarded with the first beautiful view. Once at the top, the trail leads to the old synagogue, a silent testament to Westerburg's Jewish history.

Just a few steps further, you reach Burgmannenplatz (Burgmann Square) with the Burgmannenhaus (Burgmann House), which references the town's medieval history. A short detour to the Geoblick Oberstadt (Upper Town Viewpoint) is worthwhile, offering a fascinating panoramic view of Westerburg and the surrounding hills.

The route now leads to the historic Westerburg Castle, whose origins date back to the 12th century. Directly adjacent is the Baroque castle church, a gem of sacred architecture. Passing the neighboring Vasallenhaus (Vasall House), the trail continues to the Ehrenhain (Earning Grove), a small memorial site with a tranquil atmosphere.

The path now descends to the market square before the last major climb to Hilserberg. Via Waldstraße (Forest Road), you finally reach the quiet deciduous forest on the edge of town. Above the Friedwald (forest cemetery), the trail now follows soft forest paths, accompanied by the rustling of the trees and expansive views over the WällerLand region.

After approximately 4.6 km, the circular route concludes at the Liebfrauenkirche (Church of Our Lady).

Directions

The starting point is the Church of Our Lady in Westerburg. From the church parking lot, follow the path to the left, past the cemetery, and downhill toward the town center. You'll pass the modern Christ the King Church on your left.

Continue across the town hall square, past the town hall, and across the street toward the upper town. You'll need to climb the "Am Trotzeberg" stairway – a short but steep section that offers the first beautiful views of the town. Once at the top, continue right, and the Old Synagogue is right at your feet. The pedestal by the house explains its history.

Now follow the path to Burgmannenplatz, where you can discover the historic Burgmannenhaus (Burgmann's House). From here, the path continues to Geoblick Oberstadt – a vantage point with a sweeping view over Westerburg and the green surroundings.

A few steps further, you'll reach Westerburg Castle Church. Take a look at the castle church before continuing the path through the historic ensemble. The Vasallenhaus (Vasall House), another historic site, is also on the trail.

Below the Vasallenhaus is the Ehrenhain (Earning Grove), a peaceful memorial with a fantastic view of the railway bridge and Westerburg. From there, continue downhill along the "Auf dem Fels" street through narrow old town alleys to a dead end. Turn left at the dead end, then continue straight across the parking lot to the market square, the center of town. It's worth taking a short break here – cafés and seating areas invite you to linger.

From here, the last major climb begins over Hilserberg. Follow the forest road, which leads you into the adjacent city forest. Now you can enjoy quiet forest paths with soft ground and beautiful views above the forest cemetery.

After a pleasant, slightly downhill section through the forest, the circular trail leads you back to the Church of Our Lady, where your tour ends.

Safety instructions

Challenging route with significant climbs

Tips

Special features:

Cultural highlights and historic buildings in a small space

Challenging climbs with rewarding views

Connection of city, history, and nature

Seats and information boards along the way

Starting Point

Liebfrauenkirche Westerburg - Parkplatz