Stage 3 - Aremberg - Insul (19,4 km)

The third and longest leg of the route leads high into the hills and is 19.4 km long, the highest point being the Aremberg. The narrow cliff paths around the Schulder Hardt and the harsh and steep rock faces of the Spicher Ley make this hike a very special experience.

The climb to the ruins of Arenberg castle is steep and at 623m, this marks the highest point of the entire AhrSteig. Sharp meadow paths lead to Eichenbach. Through the Eichenbacher woods and over the Ahr, the climb continues with spectacular cliff passages and past rough sandstone rock faces to Schuld. A detour to the Schorn chapel and the open-air theatre is very worthwhile. Further on through the wooded paths and upwards to the impressive cliff of the Spicher Ley with beautiful views of the Ahr valley, the route continues through forests and meadows and then back down to Insul with the secluded Hahnensteiner mill.

Surefootedness and sturdy shoes are required!

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Diversions in the area of Eichenbach and Insul as well as construction work in the town of Schuld

Due to a damaged bridge, the section through Eichenbach has to be diverted. Follow the "Detour" markings here. Construction work to repair flood damage in the village of Schuld currently means that the AhrSteig cannot always be clearly marked. The riverside path near Insul is closed due to damage caused by the floods. Please use the signposted diversion via the Ahr cycle path.

 

Difficulty: hard

Ascent:  424 m

Descent: 757 m

Duration: approx. 6 hrs.