Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels
100% of reviewers say this trail is easy
11.7kmLength
488mElevation gain
4–4.5hrEstimated time
Circular
Panoramic hike in the Palatinate, Rhineland-Palatinate.
The St. Johann hiking car park can be the starting and finishing point for this charming circular hike. After a solid ascent, you reach the Orensfels viewing platform. Here you can enjoy an amazing panoramic view from the sea of vines in the east, across the Queich Valley, into the Palatinate Forest and over Annweiler. The second great highlight is the ruins of Neuscharfeneck Castle. You return through lush forest past Eichberg and Ringelsberg. There is the opportunity to stop for refreshments along the way.
Highlights:
- magnificent views
- great landscape of the Palatinate Forest
- Ohrenfels
- Neuscharfeneck castle ruins
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Top sights
Orensfels
Peak
Ringelsberg
Peak
Ritterstein 58 "Zimmer-Platz"
Attraction
Neuscharfeneck
Castle
Orensberg
Peak
Zimmer-Brunnen
Spring
Eichberg
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Discover this 11.7-km circular trail near Albersweiler, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 45 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead.
What is the expected weather this week for Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels?
Expected weather for Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 26 September - 26.9 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 27.1 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 25.9 degrees/clear
- Tue 29 September - 26.9 degrees/clear
- Wed 30 September - 26.4 degrees/clear
Where is Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels located?
Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels?
Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels is considered a moderate hike that covers 11.7 km, with an elevation gain of 488 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels?
Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels is considered a moderate hike that covers 11.7 km, with an elevation gain of 488 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels a circular?
Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels is a circular trail that covers 11.7 km, with an elevation gain of 488 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Circular trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
How long is Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels?
Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels is a circular trail that covers 11.7 km, with an elevation gain of 488 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Circular trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
Are dogs allowed on Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels, but must remain on a lead.
When is the best time of year to hike Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels?
Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels?
According to trailgoers, Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels is usually somewhat busy. Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there forests at Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels?
Yes, Neu-Scharfeneck Ruins via Orensfels is a forest trail in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
Last updated on 25 September 2026 at 23:44 GMT+0