Great article by Paula. Sounds like a bit of an adventure and torn ligaments are no fun!
I think there are similar routes along the Rhein, Ahr and also in the Ortenau. Are there any agencies that can make arrangements for accommodation and forwarding of luggage?
David, thanks so much for your kind words! I loved walking it and writing it, love hearing that it resonated. The torn ligaments are no joke (and still plaguing me) but at least they made for a good story!
You’re right there are similar routes although each region has their own infrastructure. I believe the Rhein offers luggage transfer through local taxi services. As for the Ahr, recovery is still somewhat slow so I’m not sure of what they offer. The best bet is to the contact the regional tourist buro and ask for their recommendation. At the very least they’ll be able to get you some local taxi numbers.
My next challenge is doing a 150-km, 6 day tour of the Pink Granite Coast (GR34) in early July; exchanging vineyards for orchards, grapes for apples. Off to read the piece by Chris Howard for tips and inspiration!
I sympathise. I suffered a „knee derangement" on a wine tour to Sicily last year - slipped meniscus and torn ligaments. No alcohol involved. Still recovering. Walking on the Ortenauer Weinpfad last autumn was no fun - my leg nearly gave way coming down the steep vineyard slopes.
Germany is great for walking. Trails are well sign posted and, at least during summer, there are little huts or honesty boxes where you can pick up a refreshment. I even saw one enterprising Winzer on the edge of Schweigen-Rechtenbach had set up an honesty wine-cooler.
oh no! That sounds painful. How was the Ortenauer Weinpfad - besides painful? That’s a real up and coming area. That one honesty box was a trip highlight, so well placed and much needed!
Very excited to see what Brittany will offer us!
I only pottered about the paths around Waldulm-Kappelrodeck. It’s a mixture of vineyard and woods, with magnificent views across the Rhein valley to Straßburg cathedral and the Vosges. Pretty easy once you are up the steep hill from the village. Not too many people other than those tending their vines - this is still co-op territory - Unlike the Rheinsteig.