Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Canyons
Germany
Baden-Württemberg
Heidenheim

Hermaringen

Top 9 Gorges around Hermaringen

Best canyons around Hermaringen are found within the Eselsburger Tal, a notable gorge-like area in the district of Heidenheim, Germany. This region features a picturesque landscape where the Brenz River flows through a narrowing valley, creating distinctive rock formations. The area is characterized by rolling hills and green meadows, offering a rich natural environment for exploration. It is a popular destination for hiking and cycling, with various routes available.

Best canyons around Hermaringen

  • The most popular canyons is Eselsburger Valley, a gorge where the Brenz River flows in a loop around the "Buigen" ridge. The river flows through this narrowing valley, creating impressive rock formations.
  • Another must-see spot is Stone Maidens rock formations, a natural monument located on the eastern slope of the Eselsburger valley. These distinctive formations are a prominent natural beauty within the Eselsburger Tal.
  • Visitors also love Lone Valley, a gorge formed by the ancient Lone River. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and known for its geological history and accessible caves.
  • Hermaringen is known for its river gorges, rock formations, and historical cave sites. The area offers a variety of natural landscapes to see and explore, from narrow river valleys to ancient geological features.
  • The canyons around Hermaringen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3000 upvotes and over 2000 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 15, 2026

Stone Maidens rock formations

Highlight • Natural Monument

Fantastic bike path along the Brenz in the Eselsburger valley. You can also climb here.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Eselsburger Valley

Highlight • Gorge

The Eselsburger Tal forms a section of the Brenz. The river flows from the Anhausen monastery near Herbrechtingen in a loop of the sharply narrowing valley around the "Buigen" ridge. First, the Brenz runs about three kilometers from Anhausen in a southerly and south-easterly direction,[1] past Bindstein Castle and Falkenstein Castle (Municipality of Gerstetten), after a hairpin bend in the district of Eselsburg (Herbrechtingen) it heads north to Herbrechtingen, where the Brenz turns sharply to the east. The Eselsburg valley is primarily known for its natural beauty; the most famous of these are the “Stone Maidens”. The Spitzbuben Cave is located at the southernmost point of the valley.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

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

Lone Valley

Highlight • Gorge

Before the Danube and Rhine existed, the Lone River was the sole drainage of the entire region and a raging torrent that created this valley. When the first humans arrived here 40,000 years ago, the Danube and Rhine already existed, and the Lone had shrunk to a small stream. Herds of animals migrated along the valley to the plateaus when there were too many mosquitoes near the water during the short, hot summers. Hunters only had to stand on the edge at the right moment and throw their spears. Today, the Lone is a barely visible trickle in the still beautiful valley.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Steinerne Jungfrau Rock Formation, Eselsburger Tal

Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument

The classic route in the Eselsburger Valley. A very beautiful route, but it can get very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Beautiful nature reserve that forms part of the Brenz. The valley is easy to explore on foot and by bike. The highlights include the Steiner Maidens, Spitzbubenhöhle, Falkenstein Domain and Eselsburg Castle. Excursion destination for young and old.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more gorges around Hermaringen.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Hermaringen

Weekend excursion to the Swabian Alb

Cycling around Hermaringen

Road Cycling Routes around Hermaringen

MTB Trails around Hermaringen

Hiking around Hermaringen

Gravel biking around Hermaringen

Running Trails around Hermaringen

Other adventures around Hermaringen

Weekend excursion to the Swabian Alb

Cycling Collection by

Johanna

Tips from the Community

totti8899
June 16, 2025, Eselsburger Valley

The absolute highlight of our tour this year!!! Idyllic nature, a very easy bike path, and plenty of rest stops (especially at the Biotal farm shop & cafe in Eselsburg).

Translated by Google

1

0

Absolutely recommended. You can also eat something and drink coffee there.

Translated by Google

4

2

The rock formations are impressive and highly recommended. But be careful, there is a road leading through the valley. It is a direct connection from Eselsburg to Herbrechtingen and is driven on the right. It's a little quieter on the small hiking trail parallel to the road, on the other side of the floodplain.

Translated by Google

7

2

Alexander
September 28, 2023, Lonetal

The Lone almost never has water these days (except at the sewage treatment plants), but things were different when I was a child in the 70s, when it had water very often! I don't know why that is like that???

Translated by Google

4

0

Manfred R.K.
September 21, 2023, Lonetal

Nice valley for hiking

Translated by Google

3

0

Fantastic valley and wonderfully suitable for cycling!

Translated by Google

0

0

Very beautiful rocky landscape and untouched nature

Translated by Google

5

0

At the foot of the path are the two stone virgins. A popular photo motif.

Translated by Google

13

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most prominent canyon-like areas around Hermaringen?

The most prominent area is the Eselsburger Valley, where the Brenz River flows through a narrowing valley, creating impressive rock formations. Another significant area is the Lone Valley, known for its geological history and accessible caves.

What unique geological features can I expect to see in the canyons near Hermaringen?

The region is famous for its distinctive rock formations, particularly the Stone Maidens rock formations in the Eselsburger Tal. The Lone Valley also features ancient geological formations and natural caves, highlighting its past as a major river drainage.

Are there family-friendly options for exploring the canyons around Hermaringen?

Yes, both the Eselsburger Valley and the Lone Valley are considered family-friendly. The Lone Valley, in particular, is described as a perfect spot for family walks, with several natural caves that are partly freely accessible.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the canyons?

The area is popular for hiking and cycling. You can find numerous routes for easy hikes around Hermaringen, including paths along the Brenz River. For cyclists, there are various cycling routes, such as the beautiful path along the Brenz in the Eselsburger Tal.

When is the best time of year to visit the canyons around Hermaringen?

The region is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling. During short, hot summers, mosquitoes can be more prevalent near the water in valleys like the Lone Valley, suggesting cooler seasons might be more comfortable for some activities.

Are there any historical sites or features within the canyons near Hermaringen?

Yes, the Lone Valley is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and is known for its remarkable archaeological excavations, including the famous 'Lion Man' figure. Additionally, the Eselsburger Valley features the Spitzbubenhöhle (Robber's Cave) at its southernmost point, adding an element of historical intrigue.

What do visitors enjoy most about the canyons around Hermaringen?

Visitors frequently praise the picturesque river landscapes, the impressive rock formations like the Steinerne Jungfrau Rock Formation, and the untouched nature. The area is cherished for its diverse natural environment, offering a blend of geological interest, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities for hiking and cycling.

Is the Eselsburger Tal suitable for cycling?

Yes, the Eselsburger Tal is very suitable for cycling. A beautiful cycling path runs along the Brenz River, offering scenic views. There are also specific cycling routes that include the valley.

What makes the Lone Valley special?

The Lone Valley is special because it's a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its significant geological history and archaeological discoveries, including evidence of early human presence. It features several natural caves and a unique landscape shaped by the ancient Lone River.

Are there circular hiking trails in the canyon areas?

While specific circular trails for the canyons aren't detailed, the region around Hermaringen offers various easy hiking routes, many of which are loops. For example, the Eselsburger Tal itself is a loop formed by the Brenz River, making it ideal for circular exploration.

Can I climb on the rock formations in the Eselsburger Tal?

Some rock formations in the Eselsburger Tal, such as near the Stone Maidens, do offer climbing opportunities. However, it's important to note that certain areas, like the Falkenstein Rock, may be restricted for climbing, especially during bird breeding seasons.

Are the canyons around Hermaringen dog-friendly?

The natural areas around Hermaringen, including the valleys and hiking paths, are generally welcoming for dogs. Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs along the trails. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or near wildlife, and to respect local regulations.

Most popular routes around Hermaringen

Cycling around Hermaringen

Most popular attractions around Hermaringen

Natural Monuments

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Already discovered everything in this region? See additional gorges around Hermaringen for your next adventure:

GerstettenSteinheim am AlbuchHeidenheim an der BrenzHerbrechtingenNiederstotzingenGiengen an der BrenzSontheim an der BrenzKönigsbronnNattheimWental Mit Seitentälern Und Feldinsel KlösterleEselsburger TalDischingen

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Giengen an der Brenz

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy