The volcanic landscape of the Hegau, located in close proximity to Lake Constance, is now considered an off-the-radar destination for hiking enthusiasts. Over the past seven years, nine premium hiking trails have been planned and created in this area. In addition to the eight circular hiking trails, there is a 30 km long route from Engen to Singen and back again. This tour takes in the five most famous Hegau volcanoes, starting with the Hohenhewen, then the Hohenstoffeln, Mädgeberg and Hohenkrähen, before ending at the Hohentwiel with its imposing fortress ruins. The tour is suitable for a two-day hike, with the option to pause in Weiterdingen or Mühlhausen-Ehingen, as well as for highly athletic hikers who can complete the tour in one day. However, it should be noted that the route's considerable length of almost 30 km, coupled with the significant altitude gain, poses a substantial challenge even for experienced hikers. Should you choose to climb the summits of all five mountains, you can expect an additional 6 km and 340 metres of elevation gain.
Autorentipp
We would be delighted to welcome you to the old town of Engen. From there, a signposted path (approx. 2.5 km) leads to the starting point at the Almenhütte.
Please ensure you take sufficient food and drink with you. The selection of restaurants along the route is limited, and many of them require a detour to reach.
Please find below details of the drinking water facilities available:
Hegau-Haus (Singen, K 6125, Duchtlinger Straße): Outside of operational hours, a swing pump can be activated to the right of the entrance gate. There is a tap there that provides fresh water from an approved source.
Proceed along the 'Seeweiler' farm route from Singen towards Engen. The farm is located approximately 500 metres after the signpost marked 'Beim Binninger Ried'. On the right-hand side, there is a house with a 'pull bell' (a bell on a string). It is possible to obtain water from the tap in this location without obligation and with respectful behaviour.
Wegbeschreibung
The tour commences at the Almenhütte, located near Anselfingen. From there, the well-marked trail proceeds through the wooded area, ascending initially to Engen's local mountain, the Hohenhewen. The panoramic vista of the Hegau region, extending towards Lake Constance, offers a respite from the arduous ascent. At the summit, the presence of several wall remnants serves as a testament to the historical presence of a castle in this location. The trail leads southwards downhill towards Welschingen. After crossing the district road, you enter the Ertenhag forest area. First, you walk along the edge of the forest, passing a nature reserve, and then you come to the road to Weiterdingen. Here, you will have your first view of the next volcanic mountain, the Hohenstoffeln. A steep meadow path leads up towards the Hohenstoffeln. At the halfway point, you will enter the forest. The path subsequently re-emerges from the forest. From there, you also have the option of climbing the second volcanic peak. Please follow the yellow signs of the Black Forest Association. Above the crossroads, a bench offers a rest area with a panoramic view, inviting visitors to take a moment before continuing their journey back into the forest. The route continues in a slightly downhill direction towards Weiterdingen, exiting the forest. From this vantage point, the next volcanic cone, the Mägdeberg, can be seen rising beyond the wide valley.
The route traverses the expansive plain, initially remaining level before ascending through open terrain to the 'Hegaukreuz'. The Hegau region is visible in all directions, showcasing its natural beauty. The route continues downhill towards Mägdeberg. In this instance, too, it is worthwhile to make a brief detour to the summit, where you will find castle ruins. Please be advised that after crossing the road connecting Mühlhausen-Ehingen to Duchtlingen, it is imperative to follow the signposted route, as this area is home to a highly sensitive nature reserve with rare plant life. We are pleased to inform you that another volcanic mountain, the Hohenkrähen, is now within reach. At 643 metres, it is the smallest of the Hegau volcanic cones, but undoubtedly one of the most striking. The Grauen Reiter scouts are based in the castle. They also ensure that the path up to the summit is safe, as sure-footedness is essential for climbing the Hohenkrähen. The site retains clear evidence of the former castle complex, offering unobstructed panoramic vistas in all directions. From this vantage point, the destination of the strenuous hike is already in sight: the Hohentwiel. After crossing the district road, you will find the Hotel/Restaurant Hegauhaus, which is renowned for its excellent cuisine. A break with coffee and cake on the terrace overlooking Lake Constance is an excellent choice.
The route continues across open terrain towards the stage destination. At the Staufen, the smaller of the two, you will find the premium hiking trail 'Hohentwieler'. Concurrently, the trail ascends to the Hohentwiel and one of Germany's most extensive fortress ruins. Should you wish to visit the ruins, it is necessary to purchase your ticket in advance or make a small detour to the information centre. The final sprint has now commenced. In the final section, the hike leads through Germany's highest vineyard, the Vollmayer Winery. The vines provide a natural path for hikers, leading them down to either the Landesgartenschau railway station or the large free car park of the former Landesgartenschau.
The hike can be done in both directions and is signposted in both directions.
Ausrüstung
- Please ensure that you are dressed appropriately for the weather, with clothing that offers sun protection and rain cover.
- It is imperative to wear appropriate footwear.
- Please be advised that there are no public facilities along the route where you can refill your water bottles. However, there is sufficient food and drink available. The selection of dining options along the route is limited, with many requiring a detour to reach.
Sicherheitshinweise
The route to the summit of Hohenkrähen demands a certain level of footwear that ensures stability and security.
