For this hike in the crisis, this time we went again to the Rhine in the Rheingau to Lorchhausen in the very west of Hesse. Lorchhausen, like many other villages and towns on the Rhine, is characterized by viticulture and can look back on centuries of history. On this hike we started in the middle of Lorchhausen and, as always, turned left along an approximately 10 km long circular path, first up the slope and later over fields, meadows and forests back to the Rhine. The hike took place in October 2020 and was excellent to walk despite the slowly decreasing temperatures.
In this video, I go on a hike around Lorchhausen, a small village at the banks of the Rhine River in Germany. This part of the Middle Rhine Valley is world famous for its dramatic river landscapes, steep vineyard slopes, castles perched on ridges, and charming wine villages. Hiking here is a journey through nature, culture, and history, with every trail offering sweeping views over the Rhine and into the surrounding hills.
Lorchhausen lies in the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a region where the river has carved a deep gorge between forested hills and rocky cliffs. The vineyards grow on steep slopes that rise almost directly from the riverbanks, creating a striking landscape that is both scenic and productive. Walking here means moving between rows of vines, forest paths, and open viewpoints, each revealing another perspective on the Rhine.
The hike begins near the village itself, where traditional half-timbered houses and narrow streets reflect the long history of the region. From there, the path climbs into the vineyards above the Rhine, where the views quickly open up. Looking down, you see the wide river flowing through the valley, ships passing below, and the opposite bank lined with castles, villages, and more vineyard terraces.
The vineyard trails around Lorchhausen are especially impressive in autumn, when the vines glow in golden and red colours. At this time of year, the air is crisp, the light soft, and the landscape full of atmosphere. In spring and summer, the slopes are alive with green leaves, while in winter, the bare rows reveal the patterns of the land beneath.
The hike also passes into the forests and meadows above the vineyards, where the scenery shifts from cultivated slopes to natural woodland. Here, the paths are quiet, covered in leaves and needles, with the sounds of birds and the rustling wind in the trees. The combination of open vineyard views and shaded forest trails gives the hike variety and balance.
One of the highlights of the region is the abundance of castles and historic ruins along the Rhine. From the higher paths near Lorchhausen, you can often spot castles on both sides of the river, reminders of the Middle Ages when this valley was a vital trade route. These landmarks add drama to the already spectacular landscape and create a sense of walking through history.
The Rhine River itself is always present. From every viewpoint, its wide, winding flow dominates the scene, reflecting the changing light and weather. Sometimes calm and blue, sometimes dramatic under clouds or mist, the river is the central thread that ties the landscape together. Watching the ships move along its surface adds life and rhythm to the views.
The atmosphere of hiking around Lorchhausen changes with the seasons. In summer, the valley is full of energy, with festivals, wine tastings, and many visitors. In autumn, it is quieter, with the colours of harvest filling the hillsides. Winter brings a calm stillness, when the bare vineyards and misty river create a more reflective mood. Every time of year shows a different side of the valley’s character.
This video captures the impression of hiking around Lorchhausen at the Rhine River: vineyard trails, forest paths, river panoramas, and cultural landmarks all combined into one experience. It is not a detailed guide but an overview of the mood, beauty, and significance of the region.
For travelers, Lorchhausen is a perfect starting point to explore the Middle Rhine Valley. The area combines wine culture, dramatic natural scenery, and centuries of history into a compact and unforgettable landscape. Whether you enjoy hiking, wine tasting, or simply admiring the views, a walk around Lorchhausen offers a true taste of the Rhine’s unique charm.