Franzosensteig - a historic hiking and climbing path from the Moselle bank up to the Hunsrück heights

We start the hike at the historic landmark of the town of Traben-Trarbach, the Brückentor. From there, we follow the traffic-calmed area of Brückenstraße up to the Indian restaurant "Namaste Shiva" on the left side. There, on the left between the houses, we reach the Brandweg by a staircase. We follow the Brandweg, an escape route during floods, up to the sign for the Grevenburg/Kriegerdenkmal ascent. Now it goes along a path by vineyard walls up to the stair ascent through the vineyards. At the top, we keep left and reach the War Memorial. From here, it continues over the 100 steps of the lower Franzosen stairs, always following the signs for Grevenburg. Upon arrival at Grevenburg, we cross the outer area of the castle heading towards the parking lot. From there, you immediately see the steel constructions of the spiral staircase and viewing platform inside the mountain. Through the "Hohle Fass" you reach the viewing platform, which already offers a great view of the surroundings. Continuing along the path, you go over the upper Franzosen stairs finally up to the Himmelspforte - the climb is rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view! Those who wish can continue the hike here via the Moselsteig stage 13 towards Starkenburg/Enkirch/Burg/Reil (see Moselsteig stage 13). The descent then takes place via the serpentine path from the Grevenburg parking lot down into the valley. At the bottom, the starting point of our hike, the Brückentor, lies on the left side.

For the area spiral staircase, viewing platform, and path over the upper Franzosen stairs up to the Himmelspforte the following applies:

- only for experienced hikers

- no fear of heights required

- surefootedness required

Sturdy footwear, binoculars, and a camera recommended

Plan a bit more time and refresh yourself at the Grevenburg castle tavern!

By car to Enkircher Straße in the district of Trarbach

Parking lot Enkircher Straße. The starting point (Brückentor) is accessible from there via the bridge ascent.

Train: hourly with the Moselweinbahn, stop Traben-Trarbach (www.moselwein-bahn.de)

Bus: lines 360 and 720, stop Enkircher Straße

Tourist Information Traben-Trarbach

Am Bahnhof 5

56841 Traben-Trarbach

Tel. 06541 /8398 0

www.traben-trarbach.de