Why the Altschlossfelsen are called Germany's Grand Canyon

In the Palatinate Forest, you can find one of Germany's most beautiful natural wonders: the Altschlossfelsen. When the rocks glow in the light of the setting sun, you might think you're standing in Antelope Canyon in the western USA!

Thousands of years of wind and weather have created bizarre rock formations. Four distinct towers stand closely together, along with the main rock itself.

We introduce you to this stunning excursion destination in the Palatinate Forest and have tips for hiking trails, accommodations, and the best time for photos of the glowing rocks.

For hiking enthusiasts, the area around the Altschlossfelsen offers numerous opportunities to explore the beauty of the region. Well-marked trails lead through the rock formations, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The Altschlosspfad in Eppenbrunn is especially recommended, stretching for about six miles (ten kilometers) through the Palatinate Forest and along the impressive sandstone rock formation. The trail is well-marked on site, allowing you to relax and enjoy the hike. It takes about three hours and offers an easy to moderate challenge. The starting point is the Eppenbrunn-Bürgerhaus bus stop.

There is also a shorter hiking route, just under four miles (six kilometers) long and perfect for families. This route also runs along the base of the rocks, beginning on the French side in Roppeviller.

The Altschlossfelsen in the Palatinate Forest aren't just a breathtaking natural monument. The location is also an ideal destination for an unforgettable vacation in Palatinate. Whether you want to enjoy the tranquility of nature, actively explore the area, or just relax, you'll find a variety of accommodations around the Palatinate Forest that cater to different travel needs.

From cozy guesthouses and charming vacation apartments to extraordinary hotels, there is something for every taste and budget. At Emils Hotel, for instance, you can enjoy a special stay and even book a hiking package.

Camping is an appealing option if you want to be particularly close to nature. There are several campsites on the French side, some idyllically situated in the forest. Here, you can pitch your tent or create a cozy camping atmosphere with appropriate gear and a van. The Haspelschiedt Campsite is located between a forest and a lake and offers seasonal and daily sites for tents, trailers, and RVs. Pets are allowed, and children can enjoy the recreational area with a sandy beach and water play platform.

In Ludwigswinkel, you can also find the Camping Club Pirmasens. The multiple-award-winning campground is nestled among trees and shrubs and features modern sanitary facilities and a children's playground.

The Altschlossfelsen are particularly famous for the glowing rocks phenomenon, which you can observe from the southeast side of the rock formation.

If you want to photograph this natural spectacle, the period from the end of March to the beginning of May is ideal for your visit. After that, the foliage of the surrounding trees becomes too dense.

It's important to have a clear sky and to visit between 6 PM and 8 PM. Photographer Florian Orth has gathered more tips here.

Visiting the Altschlossfelsen is most rewarding in good weather so you can fully appreciate the vibrant colors of the rocks. Due to steep and uneven parts of the trails, sturdy footwear is recommended for safe hiking.

Since there are no restaurants nearby, be sure to bring enough water and provisions. Along the trails, you'll find several great vantage points, charming meadow sections, and benches perfect for a scenic picnic, but make sure to leave the area clean to preserve this unique environment for everyone.

There are no set opening hours, making planning your visit flexible. Beloved furry friends are welcome to join the adventure, and admission is free - you simply need to arrange your journey or accommodation if needed.

Additionally, the natural spectacle can be reached by car via the Landau-North exit from Pirmasens or from Roppenviller in France. Those traveling by public transportation can take the train to Dahn or Pirmasens and from there hop on a regional bus to Eppenbrunn.

Looking for more inspiration? Find tips for all top travel destinations on bettercities.net.