Three Altitudes, Three WorldsSpots to Visit in the Swabian Alb

Our first stop leads us to the Danube Mountains, to Lemberg - the highest peak in the Swabian Alb. Even the forest climb heightens our anticipation. And when we finally reach the summit, the striking observation built in 1899 rises before us.

We climb the 33 metres to the tower with Katharina Siedler to hoist a flag that marks the highest point of the Swabian Alb. It signals that the hut on the Lemberg, near Gosheim, is open and that refreshments, light bites, and warm hospitality await hikers as they make their way to the summit.

The view? Simply breathtaking. The Swabian Alb unfolds like a vast carpet, the Danube Valley winds through the landscape, and on clear days the Alps appear on the horizon. “Time moves a little slower up here,” says Katharina - and it feels true. Everyday life stays far below and tranquillity takes over.

And the hut below is a place to welcome and meet people – Katharina looks forward to the day ahead with her husband, friends, family, and all the guests. Everyone feels welcome on the Lemberg, especially children: together with the Swabian Alb Association, she and her husband have created several play stations which include marble runs, a sandpit, and a barefoot path.

It’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again. The view is never quite the same. In spring, orchards burst into bloom; in autumn, gentle veils of mist drift across the hills - the Danube Mountains reveal themselves anew each time.

Facts About the Lemberg Tower - a View with a Story

The Lemberg Tower, built in 1899 with a striking steel-frame design, rises 33 meters above the Swabian Alb – a truly unique landmark of the region. Its viewing platform presents a breathtaking panorama, making even seasoned hikers’ hearts race: 360° views over forests, mountains, the Danube Valley, the Black Forest - and on a clear day, even the Alps shimmer on the horizon.

At the top, nature meets history, silence meets wonder – perfect for those looking to hike mountains in Germany, but also to pause and reflect. And let's be honest: when else do you get the chance to experience several breathtaking landscapes in a single glance?

After the fresh mountain air, we now find ourselves at the foot of the Swabian Alb near Rottenburg. Here, Verena Blessing invites visitors to experience meditation and deep relaxation in an orchard meadow.

Orchard bathing may sound unusual, but it feels incredible! Like forest bathing, it’s all about immersing yourself in nature with every sense. Instructor Verena explains it perfectly:




We leave our shoes in the grass and feel the blades tickle our toes. The fragrant air fills our lungs, and we listen to the gentle rustling of leaves. Soon, a soothing calm settles in - everyday life drifts away, and the moment takes on a whole new quality. Who knew slowing down could feel this effortless?




Good to Know:
The Swabian Alb is a paradise of traditional orchards and home to over 1.5 million fruit trees, making it one of Europe’s largest orchard landscapes. Explore this diverse cultural landscape on a hike or bike tour. However respect for nature is key: keep dogs on a leash and stay on marked paths to protect the different habitats. If you’d like to take a piece of the Alb home, farm shops offer plenty of regional delights, such as fresh apple juice and cider - straight into your glass!

Together with cave explorer Alexander Schneider, we experience the Swabian Alb from below as we venture into Laichingen Vertical Cave, Germany’s deepest show cave. Over 600 steps lead us into another world - through narrow passages, wide chambers, and ever deeper into the Alb’s heart. Visitors can explore down to 55 meters, while the deepest point, around 80 meters, is reserved for experienced cavers. The visitor path, however, still offers a real sense of adventure and a fascinating glimpse into the Swabian Alb’s mysterious underground.

Before descending into the depths, you’ll need a warm jacket and some sturdy shoes - because down here it's a constant 7°C and the floor is as uneven as it is adventurous. "You easily lose track of time in the cave - it's relaxing," says Alexander, as we gaze in awe into a massive shaft that runs right alongside the visitor path. The damp, cool air is a refreshing contrast to the warm summer day outside and makes the cave experience truly authentic.