Pfälzer Höhenweg Stage 04 Rockenhausen - Obermoschel

The fourth stage of the Pfälzer Höhenweg starts in Rockenhausen, where four noteworthy museums are worth a visit. Shortly after, we reach the remains of the Roman "Villa Rustica" (1) near Katzenbach, which is one of the largest excavated complexes in the West Palatinate. In a wide arc, we arrive at the 489 m high Stahlberg (2), where information boards recall past mining times. In the village of the same name, there is the possibility to break the route (overnight accommodations or bus connections are available). 

After passing through the village, we follow comfortable forest paths and field tracks with gentle ups and downs towards Obermoschel. A worthwhile detour leads to the Randeck castle ruins (4), which tower on the slope above Mannweiler-Cölln and offer a magnificent view over the town, the Alsenz valley, and the Donnersberg. Along the scenic ridge between the Moschel and Alsenz vineyards, we then continue hiking to the romantic ruins of Moschellandsburg (5), which sits atop the Landsberg summit. The castle has been documented since 1130 and was largely destroyed by fire in 1689, so today only an impressive gate tower and massive wall remnants are visible. Slightly below, we can stop at the castle hotel and enjoy the beautiful view. From here, it is not far to our stage destination in the picturesque old town of Obermoschel.

For our hikes, we recommend the following standard equipment:

Sturdy footwear Weather-appropriate clothing Sun and rain protection Adequate supply of food and drinks, as there are not always possible or open places to eat or shop. Even though the paths are consistently well marked, it is advisable for safety reasons to always carry an appropriate hiking map, so that in case of a thunderstorm or emergency you can quickly find a safe area.

Hiking on natural paths and trails - Especially in autumn, be aware that fallen leaves can conceal unevenness, roots, stones, or holes in the path. After thunderstorms or heavy rains, trees can still fall or branches fall afterwards. Especially under adverse weather conditions, natural trails can have muddy and slippery sections. Not all rocks or cliffs are secured with ropes or railings. Surefootedness is required in some places. You must expect such path impairments when hiking. If you consider certain trail sections impassable for you, you should avoid them. Despite the "unmissable" marking of the premium hiking trails, we recommend always carrying a suitable hiking map for safety reasons, so that you can quickly find a safe area in case of thunderstorms or emergencies. Trail closures and detours must be observed.

Emergency situations - In the event of an emergency, quick help is needed. Even though mobile phones can send GPS signals, classic rescue points often are the fastest. These are located at places accessible to rescue vehicles. Remember the points with green signs and a white cross. In case of emergency, return there and give the number on the sign during your emergency call. This way, rescuers know where to find you.

A6 to the Enkenbach-Alsenborn exit, continue via B48 to Rockenhausen

By train to Rockenhausen

Travel information: via the DB travel info and in the DB Navigator app

In Brühlgasse or at the train station in Rockenhausen

Please park only in designated parking areas and always keep access routes for emergency vehicles as well as work paths in the forest and vineyards clear. For overnight stays in campers & caravans, there are explicitly designated motorhome parking spaces

360° Pfalz

www.obermoschel.de

www.rockenhausen.de

www.donnersberg-touristik.de

Marking Rules

Visiting the museums in Rockenhausen:

- Museum for Time
- Kahnweiler House
- Pachen Museum – German Art of the 20th Century
- Northern Palatinate Local History Museum

 Museum opening hours can be found here.