Top 20 Huts and Cabins around Birkenau
Best huts around Birkenau are found in a region characterized by its forested hills and numerous viewpoints, offering diverse outdoor experiences. The area provides a variety of shelters and towers that serve as resting points for hikers and visitors. These structures are often situated on summits or within forests, providing opportunities to engage with the natural landscape. The region's terrain is suitable for various hiking levels, from intermediate trails to more challenging ascents.
Best huts around Birkenau
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Eichelberg Tower (Mannheimer Hut)
Highlight • Viewpoint
You can find out when the tower is open here
eichelbergturm.12hp.de/bewirtung.html
(2x I also do duty)
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Krehberg Summit and Mathildenruhe Shelter
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Hemsberg Bismarck Tower
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Hunter's Rest Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Gaderner Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more huts and cabins around Birkenau.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Birkenau
Tips from the Community
You have a beautiful view from here
1
0
The Gaderner Hütte, built in 1977, is a refuge with a barbecue area on the Tromm high trail and the Camino Incluso long-distance hiking trail. From there you have a beautiful view of the eastern ridge of the Odenwald. Ideal for a rest.
3
0
The Hrehberg (576 m) can be reached by bike or via the numerous surrounding hiking trails from Bensheim, Heppenheim or the Lautertal. The mountain bike route HP 1 also passes by here. The striking transmission tower is hidden in the forest. There are plenty of rest areas on the paths around. For example, the nearby Mathildenruhe.
3
0
The round tower has a total height of 19 meters. It is located on the summit of the 262.2 m above sea level Hemsberg in the southeast of Bensheim. The tower is made of granite and widens evenly over the last three meters. It is topped with a parapet, the upper edge of which is 16.1 meters high. On the southeast side of the tower, above the exit to the platform, there is a bay window with a gable roof that towers over it by 4 meters. In the lower part of the tower there is a two-storey extension with a hipped roof. In its original design, the extension on the upper floor was open and intended as a visitor's terrace. In the 1950s, however, this area was walled up and fitted with windows. The extension has served as a hikers' hostel ever since.
10
0
On May 17, 1897, the retired postal director Ernst Hallwachs (1828–1903) and the Bensheim entrepreneur Commercial Councillor Wilhelm Euler (1847–1934) suggested building a Bismarck tower on the summit of the Hemsberg.[5] The tower was built according to plans by Heinrich Metzendorf and completed on July 6, 1902. The construction costs for its construction amounted to 10,000 marks. In 2010, the tower was renovated. The roof was sealed, and windows and doors were painted. In 2017, the tower was handed over by the Bensheim local group to the Hemsberg Tower Association, which was founded for this purpose, because the local group no longer saw itself in a position to take on responsibility for the tower in the future due to its age structure.
9
0
The Bismarck Tower on the Hemsberg near Bensheim is a Bismarck monument. The tower is used as an observation tower, which is open on Sundays and public holidays, and as a hostel for hikers.
10
0
The Bismarck Tower is only open on Sundays and public holidays. The Hemsberg is a 262.2 m above sea level elevation on the Hessian Bergstrasse in the Odenwald southeast of Bensheim. The area around Hemsberg has a very diverse flora and fauna. On the summit there is a Bismarck Tower built in 1902, which can be used as an observation tower. Wikipedia
8
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of huts can I find around Birkenau?
Around Birkenau, you'll discover a variety of huts, shelters, and tower-based huts. These range from simple resting spots in forests to towers with cafes and panoramic views, offering diverse amenities for hikers and visitors.
Which huts are most popular with visitors in the Birkenau area?
Among the most popular huts are the Hemsberg Bismarck Tower, known for its historical significance and café, and the Eichelberg Tower (Mannheimer Hut), which offers great views. Visitors also frequently enjoy the Hunter's Rest Hut, a comfortable forest retreat.
Are there family-friendly huts or trails around Birkenau?
Yes, several huts and trails around Birkenau are suitable for families. The Hemsberg Bismarck Tower is considered family-friendly, featuring a playground and outdoor seating. The Hunter's Rest Hut and Gaderner Hut are also great options, offering facilities and spacious areas for breaks in a forest setting.
What natural attractions or viewpoints can I find near the huts?
Many huts are situated to offer excellent natural views. The Eichelberg Tower (Mannheimer Hut) and Hemsberg Bismarck Tower are prominent viewpoints. Additionally, the Krehberg Summit and Mathildenruhe Shelter rewards a strenuous climb with beautiful panoramic views.
What outdoor activities can I do near these huts?
The region around Birkenau offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Götzenstein panoramic hike' or the 'View of the Weschnitz Valley' loop. For cyclists, there are routes like the 'Weinheim Old Town – Ladenburg Old Town loop'. Running enthusiasts can enjoy trails like the 'Julius Fountain – Weschnitz River near Reisen loop'. Find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, cycling guide, and running guide for Birkenau.
Are there hiking trails that lead to these huts?
Yes, many huts are integrated into the local hiking network. For example, the Krehberg Summit and Mathildenruhe Shelter is reached via a strenuous climb, offering rewarding views. You can find various routes that pass by or lead directly to these huts in the hiking guide for Birkenau.
What are the opening times for huts with facilities like cafes?
The Hemsberg Bismarck Tower, which includes a small café, is typically open on Sundays and public holidays during summer. For the Eichelberg Tower (Mannheimer Hut), it's best to check their specific website for current opening times, as they can vary.
What do visitors appreciate most about the huts in Birkenau?
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful views offered from tower huts like the Eichelberg Tower and the rewarding experience of reaching summits like Krehberg Summit. The comfortable seating and peaceful forest settings of huts like Hunter's Rest Hut are also highly valued for taking a break.
Are there any historical sites among the huts?
Yes, the Hemsberg Bismarck Tower is a notable historical site, being one of the numerous Bismarck towers erected as monuments around the turn of the century. It is maintained by the Odenwald Club and offers a glimpse into regional history.
What is the best time to visit the huts around Birkenau?
The summer months are ideal for visiting, especially if you wish to experience huts with cafes like the Hemsberg Bismarck Tower, which operates on Sundays and public holidays during this season. The forested hills and viewpoints are enjoyable throughout the warmer months for hiking and outdoor activities.
Can I find shelters with barbecue areas near Birkenau?
Yes, the Gaderner Hut, built in 1977 and renovated in 2007, is a large shelter that features an outdoor area with benches and a barbecue area, making it a great spot for a picnic or gathering.
Most popular routes around Birkenau
Most popular attractions around Birkenau
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Find more beautiful huts and cabins around Birkenau by checking out the top ones in these nearby places:
