4.6
(4407)
13,860
hikers
597
hikes
Hiking around Empfertshausen offers access to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Rhön, a region characterized by expansive, unforested heights, distinctive basalt formations, and rolling hilltops. The landscape includes varied valleys, dark moors, basalt forests, and ancient beech trees. The village is situated on the northern slope of the 674-meter-high Horbel, with the 745-meter Buchschirmberg providing panoramic views.
Last updated: October 5, 2026
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(21)
47
hikers
25.5km
07:34
780m
790m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.7
(22)
70
hikers
15.9km
04:42
460m
460m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(9)
30
hikers
8.72km
02:23
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(10)
36
hikers
13.8km
03:53
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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First, it goes through the forest. You don't expect anything bad and suddenly the view opens up over idyllic villages, mountains, and distant neighboring mountain ranges like the Knüll, for example. Surprise successful.
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Here you can stamp your route and take a break to enjoy the view. 😎
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Even the strongest hiker needs a break sometimes 😙
3
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A beautiful place surrounded by beautiful nature.
2
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Small beautiful chapel on the side of the road near the Steinberg farm below the Gläserberg
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Small, well-kept chapel on the side of the road
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Short steep climb to the beautiful Dermbacher Hut with great views
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Empfertshausen offers a diverse network of over 10 hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. These trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.
Yes, Empfertshausen has several easy trails perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Village Green, Empfertshausen – Rest area loop from Empfertshausen is an easy 3.2 km route. Another family-friendly option is the Rhön Dialect Quote Pillars – Village Green, Empfertshausen loop from Empfertshausen, which is 4.3 km and features cultural highlights.
Absolutely. Empfertshausen is conveniently located near the renowned DER HOCHRHÖNER® Premium Hiking Trail, an 180-kilometer route considered one of Germany's most beautiful. Feeder paths are directly accessible from the village, allowing you to connect to this long-distance trail for extended hiking experiences.
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider the Roßbergkanzel Viewpoint loop from Andenhausen, an 12.8 km moderate path offering extensive vistas of the Rhön landscape. Additionally, the Buchschirmberg peak, at over 745 meters, provides impressive views of landmarks like the Wasserkuppe and Milseburg. You can find a dedicated Buchschirmberg Viewing Platform.
Yes, the hiking trails around Empfertshausen are generally dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Rhön with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is leashed, especially in nature protection areas, and remember to clean up after them.
Empfertshausen, known as the 'Carving Village,' offers unique cultural attractions. The 'Rhöner Holzkunst-Routen' (Rhön Wood Art Routes) feature sculptures by regional wood sculptors and steles with Rhön dialect sayings. You can explore these on routes like the Rhön Dialect Quote Pillars – Hochrhöner Premium Trail loop from Empfertshausen. The Noah's Segel Observation Tower on the Ellenbogen is another notable landmark.
Yes, many of the trails around Empfertshausen are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. The Rhön Dialect Quote Pillars – Hochrhöner Premium Trail loop from Empfertshausen is a popular 7.9 km circular route, and the Village Green, Empfertshausen – Feldatal Cycle Path loop from Empfertshausen offers an easy 4.5 km loop.
The Rhön region, including Empfertshausen, is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming meadows, summer offers pleasant temperatures for long hikes, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. The 'land of open distances' provides clear views in many seasons. Winter hiking is also possible, though conditions can vary.
Yes, the region caters to hikers. The Thüringer Rhönhaus is a popular stop, offering traditional Rhön cuisine and hospitality, and serves as an ideal starting point for excursions around the Ellenbogen. You might also find various rest areas and huts, such as the Rhönpaulus Rest Area, along the trails.
Empfertshausen, located in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Rhön, boasts diverse natural beauty. You'll encounter expansive, unforested heights, distinctive basalt formations, rolling hilltops, and varied valleys. The landscape also features dark moors, basalt forests, and ancient, gnarled beech trees, offering a rich variety of ecosystems.
While Empfertshausen is a rural village, some public transport options may connect it to larger towns in the Rhön region. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance, as services might be less frequent, especially on weekends. Many trails are easily accessible from the village center.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3,600 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from open distances with panoramic views to cultural trails featuring local wood art. The well-maintained paths and the peaceful atmosphere of the Rhön Biosphere Reserve are frequently highlighted.


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