St Roman, Wallemehof and Teufelstein Loop

Starting your hike near Ortenaukreis, Germany, the St Roman, Wallemehof and Teufelstein Loop is a delightful 5 km (3.1 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of approximately 200 meters (656 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, set your GPS to the nearest significant landmark, which is the village of St. Roman. There is ample parking available near the trailhead. For those using public transport, take a train to the nearest major station in Offenburg. From Offenburg, you can catch a regional bus to St. Roman. The bus ride offers scenic views of the Black Forest, setting the tone for your hike.### Trail Highlights

St Roman

Starting from the village of St. Roman, the trail immediately immerses you in the serene beauty of the Black Forest. The village itself is quaint, with traditional German architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. As you begin your ascent, you'll notice the dense forest canopy providing ample shade, making it a pleasant hike even on warmer days.#### Wallemehof About 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you'll reach Wallemehof, a picturesque farmstead. This area is a great spot to take a short break and enjoy the pastoral scenery. The farm is often bustling with activity, and you might see cows grazing or farmers tending to their fields. The elevation gain here is gradual, making it a comfortable section of the hike.#### Teufelstein Continuing on, the trail leads you to Teufelstein, a significant geological formation. The name "Teufelstein" translates to "Devil's Stone," and local legends abound about its mystical origins. This section of the trail is the most challenging, with a steeper ascent that rewards you with stunning views of the surrounding forest and valleys. The rock formation itself is fascinating, with unique shapes and textures that make it a great spot for photography.### Nature and Wildlife The Black Forest is renowned for its biodiversity, and this trail is no exception. Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The forest floor is often carpeted with wildflowers in the spring and summer, adding vibrant colors to your hike. The dense canopy is primarily composed of fir and spruce trees, creating a lush, green environment.### Navigation For navigation, it is highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool ensures you stay on track and can fully enjoy the experience without any worries.### Historical Significance The region around Ortenaukreis has a rich history dating back to Roman times. The trail itself passes through areas that have been inhabited for centuries, and you might come across old stone walls and remnants of ancient settlements. The Black Forest was also a significant area during the medieval period, with many legends and folklore originating from this region.### Final Stretch As you loop back towards St. Roman, the descent is gentle, allowing you to take in the final views of the forest and surrounding landscape. The trail ends back in the village, where you can relax and perhaps enjoy a meal at one of the local eateries, savoring traditional German cuisine.This 5 km loop offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, moderate physical challenge, and historical intrigue, making it a rewarding hike for those looking to explore the Black Forest.