Wilgartswieser Biosphären-Pfad

An educational hiking excursion for the whole family

The ruins of Falkenburg rest above the village of Wilgartswiesen, as a testimony of medieval castle architecture. Now as a major attraction of the "Wilgartswieser Biosphärenpfad" this former imperial palace regains its former prominence. As well as the Falkenburg, this educational hike offers a number of unforgettable impressions.

Right at the beginning  of the rising to the castle, we walk on a forest path almost hidden in shades and mystery along the foot of the castle walls. A narrow staircase leads up to the castle rocks of the wildly overgrown upper castle which reveals a magnificent view over the Wasgau. Whilst being here, It is worthwhile exploring the castle ruins. In the shade under an oak tree and surrounded by unspoilt nature, which has taken possession of the imposing castle ruins, you will also find a nice picnic spot.

Having enjoyed our rest, we go back downhill from the Falkenburg  towards the "Wasgaublick". Soon the sounds of civilization can no longer be heard, leaving only the chirping of birds and perhaps the bubbling of a nearby brook.  From the shady deciduous forest, the trail leads to an idyllic meadow valley, the nature reserve Falkenburg-Tiergarten. On information panels you can learn interesting facts about the flora and fauna to be found here. The wayside sounds which sound like freezing rain falling on autumn leaves will, on closer inspection, turn out to be millions of red forest ants diligently do their work around a giant anthill. Again, an illustrative panel provides information about these insects, rarely found in Germany.

The next picnic spot can be reached after an easy 45 minute walk up to the viewpoint "Wasgaublick". Along the Kurt Reinhard path the way leads to an impressive rock wall that stands majestically in brilliant shades of red against the green of the forest: the Deichenwand. From a spacious observation deck made of wood you can enjoy a sublime view over the surrounding hillsides of the Palatinate Forest. Here is another ideal place to relax. Along the steep wall and secured with wire ropes the path leads down to the foot of the rock formation. Here you should definitely stop again and admire the mighty view upwards. Depending on how the sun stands, you can gaze at a great play of colours in shades of red, brown and orange.

The path goes on down the hillside into the romantically-situated Rödertal. The humidity of the air around us increases markedly since we are approaching the Hangquelle. When crossing this water well you will notice the increased moisture in the soil and in the air which makes it an ideal habitat for different kinds of fern. Instructive is also the lovingly-created "school forest". Not only children can learn from the many informative folding panels a lot about the native plants and animals and get to know the cycle of nature. And when one has arrived at the “insect hotel” and remains quiet, you can even watch one or two shy forest animals feeding.