It was perfect for hiking and walking, and of course that's exactly what we did on Saturday, the 9th of October.
Last year in November, we walked the Hexensteig (Witch's Climb) - you can click here for my post about that particular circuit. We knew that its counterpart, the Teufelssteig (Devil's Climb), started and ended at the same point, and we had agreed back then that we were definitely going to do that one, too.
Therefore, after a half hour drive to Lautenbach, we parked the car there and began today's hike.
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| Lautenbach |
It being a Saturday, when many people are busy around their houses and gardens, doing their weekend shopping and washing their cars etc., we did not meet many other walkers, and very few cyclists that day - just we way we like it.
Later on, this big rock made a perfect resting spot, with more great views to enjoy:
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| This was the view I had from there. I could have stayed there for a long time; it was one of those moments when time seems to stand still and you are perfectly at ease with yourself and the world. |
All in all, the circuit is somewhere around 12-13 km, a few km shorter than the Witch's Climb. We had expected the Devil's Climb to be much more challenging in terms of steepness and roughness, but it was actually a very moderate hike, with few steep bits, and much easier than we thought.
The "devilish" theme is picked up along the path every now and then, with wooden carvings etc., and at one point, this big chair - meant to be the Chief Devil's seat - is a popular photo spot for hikers. Of course, O.K. and I had to sit on it, too!
The end of the hike was by no means the end of this beautiful day; there was still some time left until sunset, and O.K. knew just where to drive us so that we could enjoy it at its best. That, however, will be the subject of my next post.
You are looking very well and very active. Right now it's almost raining here, and they are predicting storm this afternoon. All night we had lightning and thunder.
ReplyDeleteWe've been having gorgeous autumn sunshine for much of this month. It is starting to rain as we speak.
DeleteThe Devil's Climb probably seemed easier because you did all of those mountain climbs on your holiday! Love the photos especially you sitting in the big chair!
ReplyDeleteThe mountain training maybe had an effect, but the Devil's Climb really is easier and shorter than the Witch's one.
DeleteI tried to look devilish in the big chair but I am not so sure I succeeded - I guess I simply look daft :-D
Well that was a beautiful and also a fun hike! I enjoy seeing the remains of old castles such as that one. I love your description of the one view where "time seems to stand still and you are perfectly at ease with yourself and the world". How wonderful!
ReplyDeleteIt always amazes me how many castles (ruined or not) are dotted around the area. The region was once so split up between minor and less minor aristocratic and other influential families.
DeleteEvery now and then, I experience such time-stopping moments. They are to be treasured, and I remember them for many years.
What always strikes me about your posts is that as well as the commentary being so interesting and the photography being so good the countryside is so clean and cared for.
ReplyDeleteMost of the places where we walk really are clean and well looked after, but there is the occasional bit of rubbish thrown about, and I never understand how anyone can just get up and leave such a beautiful place spoiled after they have had their food and drink.
DeleteYou could be a public relations person for tourism! You show such beauty in your country. And I do love your hair.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Nan! I have been getting many compliments for my hair since I have stopped colouring; I must be careful and not become puffed up!
DeleteMore wonderful views! Looks like a perfect day for such a walk :)
ReplyDelete