The best mountain hikes around Kaltenborn
4.8
(49)
110
hikers
2
hikes
Mountaineering routes around Kaltenborn are characterized by varied elevations and rocky formations, offering challenging ascents and descents. The landscape features prominent summits like Teufelsley, providing expansive views over the surrounding terrain. Dense woodlands often line the trails, contributing to the region's natural character. This area is suitable for experienced mountaineers seeking demanding routes.
Best mountaineering routes around Kaltenborn
- The most popular mountaineering route is Teufelsley summit – Engelsley Summit Cross loop from Altenahr, a 8.2 miles (13.2 km) trail…
Last updated: August 11, 2026
4.8
(13)
33
hikers
5.81km
01:56
170m
170m
Hard mountaineering route. Great for any fitness level. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.5
(13)
35
hikers
14.3km
04:39
550m
550m
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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4.9
(16)
22
hikers
16.6km
05:33
660m
660m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(3)
12
hikers
16.3km
05:00
510m
510m
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.5
(2)
4
hikers
18.3km
05:37
580m
580m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
During wine week there will be a wine kiosk here and you can buy a holder to put your wine glass in 😀
17
1
The devil once went to the Ahr valley and was so pleased with the land and its people, but especially the excellent red wine, that he forgot his way home. One day, while he was resting on the mountain opposite Are Castle, his grandmother approached him in the form of a beautiful girl. In the arms of the lovesick devil, she quickly changed back into the disgusting old woman he knew all too well. Angrily, he grabbed his grandmother and threw her back through the rock face into hell. This is how the Teufelsloch came into being, which can still be seen above Altenahr today.
20
0
Really alpine trail with easier climbing sections, not always very stable rock and sometimes finding the way requires a bit of intuition.
4
0
The dwarf or angel hole at Engelsley is significantly smaller and more difficult to reach than the devil's hole. The Engelsley is not suitable for inexperienced hikers!
1
0
The attentive hiker will not have missed the Stations of the Cross lining the path. At this viewpoint far above the river, which offers a beautiful view into the Ahrtal valley, I would therefore like to recall a fitting thought from the Bishop of Innsbruck, Reinhold Stecher (*1921, + 2013), who felt very connected to nature and the mountains throughout his life, because he saw in them God's wonderful creation, which was entrusted to us humans. „Silence is the invitation to deeper humanity.“
20
1
Since the original staircase including the attachment to the shore was washed away by the tide, you have to climb down the stones.
0
0
Not as well known as his "brother". However, the Engelsley is only for experienced mountaineers, not hikers!
0
0
The Teufelsley (T4, partly T5) & Engelsley (T5) are tightrope walks. The flooring is mainly rock; also larger boulders. Both have a good grip (but sometimes have sharp edges), provided it is dry. At the Engelsley, the scree is a little smaller/loose and thus the sure-footedness decreases! Since these are difficult mountain/alpine trails (>T4), there are no safety devices (climbers usually secure themselves). -> For this reason, clear advice on my part: Grds ONLY to do when the ground is dry (i.e. no rain the day before) and/or when there are not too many leaves on the rock (autumn). The direction is also important: The ridges are naturally narrow and especially on the Engelsley, there are no alternatives to/from the summit. Unfortunately, I followed the planned tour without prior checking and was lucky. On the Teufelsey, the other 3 people also went in the same direction; I was alone on the Engelsley and can therefore not judge it. -> Grds I advise: from south to north Engelsley: This tightrope walk is no problem for experienced mountaineers (I deliberately avoid the word hiker) with the appropriate previous knowledge and possibly equipment. Summit book is available. -> Komoot warning: Parts of your route are very dangerous The route may contain very technical, difficult or dangerous terrain. Special equipment and previous knowledge are absolutely necessary.
5
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall difficulty level of mountaineering routes around Kaltenborn?
The mountaineering routes around Kaltenborn are primarily designed for experienced mountaineers. All listed routes are rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation gains and challenging terrain. There are no easy or moderate mountaineering routes available in this guide.
Are there any family-friendly mountaineering trails in Kaltenborn?
Given the challenging nature of the terrain and the difficulty ratings, the mountaineering routes around Kaltenborn are generally not considered family-friendly. They are best suited for experienced individuals seeking demanding ascents and descents.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Kaltenborn's mountaineering trails?
You can expect varied elevations, rocky formations, and dense woodlands. Prominent summits like Teufelsley offer expansive views, while trails often include challenging climbs and descents through rugged landscapes.
What is the typical duration for mountaineering routes in Kaltenborn?
The mountaineering routes around Kaltenborn typically range from approximately 4 hours 23 minutes to 5 hours 57 minutes to complete. For example, the Teufelsley summit – Engelsley Summit Cross loop from Altenahr takes about 4 hours 23 minutes, while the Teufelsley summit – Altenahrer Eck loop from Altenahr can take around 5 hours 46 minutes.
Are there any circular mountaineering routes available?
Yes, many of the mountaineering routes around Kaltenborn are circular. Examples include the Teufelsley summit – Engelsley Summit Cross loop from Altenahr, the Devil's Hole – Teufelsley summit loop from Kesseling, and the Teufelsley summit loop from Ahrbrück.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks along the routes?
Along the routes, you can encounter several interesting natural features and viewpoints. The Devil's Hole is a significant natural monument, and the Altenahrer Eck offers great views. You might also come across the Rock Path Above Mayschoß.
What do other mountaineers say about the trails in Kaltenborn?
The mountaineering routes in Kaltenborn are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 44 reviews. Users often praise the challenging nature of the trails and the rewarding views from summits like Teufelsley.
Are there any specific viewpoints or towers to look out for?
Yes, besides natural viewpoints like Altenahrer Eck, you might encounter man-made structures offering panoramic views. The Kaiser Wilhelm Tower on the Hohe Acht and the Krausberg Tower are notable landmarks in the broader region that offer excellent vistas.
Where do the mountaineering routes typically start?
Many routes start from towns like Altenahr or Kesseling. For instance, the Teufelsley summit – Engelsley Summit Cross loop and the Teufelsley summit – Altenahrer Eck loop both begin from Altenahr, while the Devil's Hole – Teufelsley summit loop starts from Kesseling.
What is the best season for mountaineering in Kaltenborn?
While specific seasonal information isn't provided, the challenging nature of these routes, with rocky formations and dense woodlands, suggests that spring, summer, and autumn would generally offer the most favorable conditions. Winter mountaineering would likely require specialized equipment and experience due to potential snow and ice.
Are there any huts or shelters along the trails?
Yes, there are some huts and shelters in the wider area that could be useful. For example, the Steinerberghaus and the Wabelsberg Juniper Hut are available, as well as the Udelsheck cross with refuge.
Most popular routes around Kaltenborn
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