34 🇩🇪 | "Steinbachtal" circular hiking trail

The circular tour through the Steinbach Valley begins impressively with a collection that combines tradition and craftsmanship. At the starting point in Johanngeorgenstadt, visitors are greeted by life-size figures of exiles, a giant pyramid, and the world's largest free-standing Schwibbogen.

After a short stretch through town, the trail turns right into the countryside. It gradually descends, initially along the edge of the forest and across the meadow by the ski lift. Here, there are magnificent views of Rabenberg and the Ore mountains with the Fichtelberg and Plattenberg mountains. A panorama that exudes pure Ore mountains charm.

Soon, the trail enters a mystical forest and leads around the Kanzelstein rock formation to the Steinbach Valley with its stream of the same name. This is where the wildly romantic part of the hike begins: accompanied by the quiet murmur of the stream, the trail winds its way through the idyllic valley.

After a short while, the imposing Devil's Rocks tower to the right of the trail. These are impressive rock formations that will delight not only hikers but also climbers. The trail now climbs steadily, crosses the road and disappears back into the dense forest on the other side.

At the edge of Johanngeorgenstadt, the view of the surrounding area finally opens up. On the way back, you pass an idyllically situated natural swimming pool and a horse mill. This is a little gem of industrial history that is well worth a visit and makes a wonderful end to the hike.