Horchenberg, Fuchsschroffen, Brigittenschloss and Straubenhofmühle Loop via Heilklima Wandern 2

Starting your adventure near Ortenaukreis, Germany, this 10 km (6.2 miles) loop trail offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and moderate physical challenge. With an elevation gain of around 600 meters (1,968 feet), this trail is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the serene landscapes of the Black Forest while also enjoying a bit of a workout.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If you're driving, set your GPS to Ortenaukreis, Germany, and look for parking near the Heilklima Wandern 2 trailhead. For those using public transport, take a train to Offenburg and then a local bus towards Ortenaukreis. The nearest significant landmark to the trailhead is the town of Oberkirch, which is well-connected by public transport.

### Trail Highlights

#### Horchenberg Starting from the trailhead, the initial section takes you through dense forest, gradually ascending towards Horchenberg. This part of the trail is relatively gentle, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging sections ahead. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer and various bird species. The forest here is lush and green, providing ample shade and a cool atmosphere.

#### Fuchsschroffen As you continue, you'll reach Fuchsschroffen, a notable high point on the trail. The climb becomes steeper here, but the effort is well worth it. At approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) into the hike, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. This is a great spot to take a break, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery.

#### Brigittenschloss Around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll encounter Brigittenschloss, the ruins of a medieval castle. This site is steeped in history, dating back to the 12th century. The ruins offer a glimpse into the past and are a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts. The elevation gain to this point is about 400 meters (1,312 feet), making it a significant milestone on your hike.

#### Straubenhofmühle Continuing on, the trail descends towards Straubenhofmühle, an old mill that has been beautifully preserved. This section of the trail is less strenuous, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the sound of the nearby stream. The mill is a charming spot to rest and perhaps have a snack before completing the loop.

### Navigation and Safety Given the moderate difficulty of this trail, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can provide extra assurance. Wear sturdy hiking boots, bring plenty of water, and pack some snacks. Weather in the Black Forest can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and dress in layers.

### Flora and Fauna The trail is rich in biodiversity. You'll pass through mixed forests of beech, oak, and pine. In spring and summer, the forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers, adding bursts of color to your hike. Wildlife sightings are common, so keep your camera ready for deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.

This loop trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.