The best walks and hikes around Merzhausen
4.5
(14883)
69,699
hikers
26
hikes
Hiking around Merzhausen provides access to varied terrain at the foot of the Black Forest, featuring a mix of woodlands, open meadows, and hills. The region offers diverse elevation gains, with routes leading to elevated points that provide panoramic views of Freiburg and the Rhine valley. Hikers can explore areas with beech forests and vineyards, connecting to the wider natural landscape of the Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald region.
Best hiking trails around Merzhausen
- The most popular hiking route is Schönberg summit – Schneeburg…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.7
(102)
374
hikers
10.5km
03:17
400m
410m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(20)
67
hikers
6.40km
01:53
180m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
15
hikers
4.59km
01:27
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(8)
30
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(21)
139
hikers
7.27km
02:23
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The chapel is beautifully situated in the vineyards below the Jesuit castle, just above Merzhausen on a wooded slope, and offers a lovely view. Current information about the chapel can be found here: https://www.heiligtumderberufung.de/
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"The Jesuit Castle [sic] is located on the northern Schönberg hill. Its name derives from the Jesuits who taught at the University of Freiburg from 1620 onwards. They received the estate as a gift from the Schnewlin-Bernlapp family of Bollschweil on February 10, 1635. According to the plaque above the entrance, dating from 1901, the manor house was built in 1666. When the order was dissolved in 1773, it passed to the government of Further Austria. Various owners changed hands subsequently, and it was mostly used as a noble residence. Since 1985, following several phases of renovation, the Freiburg Holy Spirit Hospital Foundation's winery, the Freiburg Foundation Winery (established in 1298), has been located on the property. In 2007, the castle hall and the castle park were lovingly renovated for celebrations. Since 2009, conferences have been held on the first floor of the castle building." ``` The manor house was built on the northern side of the Schönberg hill. https://www.merzhausen.de/freizeit-kultur/jesuitenschloss
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Schneeburg Castle is the ruin of a hilltop castle on the 516 m above sea level western sub-peak of the Schönberg mountain, in the district of Ebringen in the Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald district of Baden-Württemberg. It lies between Uffhausen in what is now the Freiburg district of Sankt Georgen and Ebringen. -according to Wikipedia-
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The castle ruins are always worth a visit. The views in many directions are simply wonderful.
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During the settlement of the Hexental in the 7th and 8th centuries, the first Alemannic farmers came to the area of today's Wittnau municipality. A new church was built in 1795 under the Barons of Bollschweil. It was to be the last baroque church in Breisgau. More information here: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wittnau_(Breisgau)
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Explanation of the summit on the plaque on the stone.
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The saying on the house might make you think.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Merzhausen?
There are over 25 hiking trails around Merzhausen, offering a variety of experiences. These include 15 easy routes, 10 moderate trails, and 1 more challenging option, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Merzhausen?
The best times for hiking in Merzhausen are spring and autumn. In spring, the landscape is vibrant with blooming flowers, while autumn transforms the forests into a stunning display of red and gold, making for picturesque walks.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Merzhausen?
Hikes around Merzhausen offer diverse terrain, from leisurely strolls through open meadows and vineyards to more challenging ascents into the foothills of the Black Forest. You'll encounter beech forests, small streams, and varied elevation gains.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Merzhausen?
Yes, Merzhausen offers several family-friendly trails. The Hexental Trail, for instance, meanders past streams and wooded areas, often including playgrounds. The Steinkopf Trail is another relatively easy option with impressive views, suitable for families.
Are there circular hiking routes available in Merzhausen?
Many routes around Merzhausen are designed as circular walks, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular example is the Schönberg summit – Schneeburg Ruins loop from Merzhausen, which offers a scenic round trip.
What kind of views can I expect on hikes around Merzhausen?
Hikers can enjoy impressive panoramic views from elevated points, including vistas of Freiburg and the Rhine valley. Trails leading to the Schönberg summit, such as the View of Freiburg – View of Freiburg Old Town loop from Merzhausen, offer particularly rewarding outlooks.
Are there any historical landmarks or natural features to see along the trails?
Yes, several trails pass by notable landmarks. You can explore the Schneeburg Ruins, which add a historical dimension to your hike. The area also features remarkable beech forests and vineyards, and the 'Waldtraut of the Mühlwald,' recognized as Germany's highest tree, is accessible within the city forest.
Is parking available for hikers in Merzhausen?
As a community at the foot of the Black Forest, Merzhausen generally offers various parking options for hikers, especially near trailheads or in village centers, making it convenient to access the routes.
Can I reach hiking trails in Merzhausen using public transport?
Merzhausen is well-connected within the Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald region, and many trailheads are accessible via local public transport, allowing you to start your hike without a car.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Merzhausen?
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in Merzhausen and the surrounding Black Forest area. However, it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and to clean up after them.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Merzhausen?
The hiking trails in Merzhausen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the beautiful views of Freiburg and the Rhine valley, and the well-maintained paths through forests and meadows.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced walkers?
While many trails are easy to moderate, Merzhausen also offers routes with steeper inclines and greater elevation gains for experienced hikers. For example, the View of Freiburg – Schönberg summit loop from Merzhausen covers 7.5 miles with significant elevation changes, providing a good challenge.
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