Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section
100% of reviewers say this trail is strenuous
90.6miLength
10,357ftElevation gain
24hr+Estimated time
Point to point
Southern Palatinate Way of St James from Speyer to Hornbach, Rhineland-Palatinate.
The "Pfälzer Jakobsweg-Südroute" is part of the Way of St James, which has been walked by pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela to the relics of St James for centuries. The route allows to experience the diversity and beauty of the Palatinate landscape.
There are stamping stations in Speyer, Lingenfeld, Germersheim, Hördt, Rülzheim, Herxheim, Landau and many other towns and villages. In addition, there are always museums, churches and opportunities to stop for refreshments and overnight stays. Parts of the route can also be shortened by bus and train.
This route of the Way of St James is divided into six stages:
Stages of the Palatinate Way of St James - southern route:
1. Speyer - Germersheim
2. Germersheim - Landau
3. Landau - Bad Bergzabern
4. Bad Bergzabern - Bruchweiler
5. Bruchweiler - Eppenbrunn
6. Eppenbrunn - Hornbach Monastery
Highlights:
- Speyer Imperial Cathedral
- Hornbach Monastery
- Queichtal Museum Offenbach
- Herxheim Museum
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Enjoy this 90.6-mile point-to-point trail near Speyer, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 36 h 22 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through November.
What is the expected weather this week for Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
Expected weather for Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section for the next 5 days is:
- Tue, September 22 - 70 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 69 degrees/showers
- Thu, September 24 - 67 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 74 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 77 degrees/clear
Where is Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section located?
Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section is considered a hard hike that covers 90.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,357 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
What is the elevation gain for Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section is considered a hard hike that covers 90.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,357 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section a point to point trail?
Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section is a point to point trail that covers 90.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,357 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
How long is Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section is a point to point trail that covers 90.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,357 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
Are dogs allowed on Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
Dogs may be allowed on Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
March to November is the most popular time of year to visit Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section.
How busy is Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
According to trailgoers, Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section is usually somewhat busy. March to November is the most popular time of year to visit Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section.
Is camping allowed at Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
Camping is allowed on Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is backpacking allowed at Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
Backpacking is allowed on Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section. Backpacking trails are typically longer and are often point-to-point trails. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section is partially paved.
Are there wildflowers at Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Palatine Way of St. James - Southern Section in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 22, 2026 at 3:58 am GMT+0