Albschäferweg - 9. Stage: Neresheim to Ballmertshofen

Benedictine Abbey of Neresheim with a guided tour of the monastery church

Härtsfeld Museum Railway from Neresheim station

The starting point for this stage is the train station in Neresheim. First, we hike up Ulrichsberg to the Benedictine abbey in Neresheim. Here, it is essential to linger, rest, and reflect, as everyday life recedes into the distance. We follow the trail markers through the Härtsfeld forests and past fields and meadows to Katzenstein. Even from a distance, we can see Katzenstein Castle high above us. Katzenstein Castle, one of the oldest preserved Staufer castles, is well worth a visit! After visiting the castle, we continue our hike via Oberer Weiler to the end of Katzenstein. Now we follow the hiking trail to the right towards Härtsfeldsee. At the bus stop, we cross the L2033. We walk across the meadow up to the reservoir dam. We follow the lake trail on the dam for a while. At the pumping station, we leave the lake trail and continue along the Egau to Dischingen. Via Rosensteinstraße and Fleinheimerstraße, we come to the Dischingen church of St. Johannes Baptist, also known as “Little-Neresheim.” The entire church is a gem. Continue along the pedestrian path along the Egau to the sports facilities in Dischingen. To your left is the Lehnert nursery. Here, turn right over the bridge and above the Egau through the Ried to the end of the stage above the Rappenmühle.

Approach:
From the end of the stage at Rappenmühle to Ballmertshofen + 1 km

Good footwear (hiking boots) is recommended.

The Albschäferweg has a high proportion of natural trail sections. You will hike on meadow trails and forest paths and trails. Trails in the forest may be in poor condition due to forestry work. Therefore, please wear sturdy shoes.

Please note that there are not many places to stop for refreshments along the way. We therefore recommend that you bring sufficient drinks and a backpack snack with you.

We offer more comfortable paths as an alternative to very difficult sections.

It is often necessary to cross busy roads. Please pay particular attention to traffic.