Discover Lich: Arnsburg Monastery, the Wetter and the Old Town
Accommodation in Lich
In Lich, historical traces and paths through the countryside lie side by side: Arnsburg Monastery, the old town, the Lich town tower and routes along the Wetter give your stay different points of interest. If you are looking for accommodation in Lich, you can consider which of these discoveries you would like to focus on during your trip—churches and history, hikes or experiences in nature.
Arnsburg Monastery and religious history
Arnsburg Monastery is close to Lich and has a history spanning almost nine centuries. Cuno of MĂĽnzenberg founded it in 1174 as a Cistercian monastery. Hiking trails, expansive views and a circular path along the monastery wall are among the ways to explore the grounds. The church ruins and the Paradies are also used for services, devotions, weddings and special religious events. The programme and access arrangements may change, so check the information in advance if you are planning to attend on a specific date.
Churches and buildings in Lich itself also tell the story of different periods. The Protestant Marienstiftskirche is a late Gothic hall church, rebuilt in 1511. Its Baroque pulpit originally stood in Arnsburg Monastery—a tangible historical link between the two places. The Lich town tower is a remnant of the historic fortifications; visitors can see it by prior arrangement.
You can continue exploring Lich in the historic old town. For a guided introduction, there are classic city tours as well as costumed walks featuring theatrical performances and tastings. Availability and booking arrangements may change, so it is advisable to enquire in advance. This will help you decide whether you would rather explore the town on your own or include a guided tour in your plans.
Hiking trails with different focuses
The Muschenheim Cultural and Historical Hiking Trail offers two routes of different lengths. Route 1 is 10.2 kilometres long and covers the entire trail. The 4.1-kilometre Route 2 focuses on Arnsburg Monastery, the nearby castle ruins, the Roman fort and the amphitheatre. Comparing the routes can help you choose: Route 1 covers the whole trail, while Route 2 is shorter and focuses on a selection of historic sites.
The Lich circular trail also brings together a variety of impressions. It runs mainly along natural-surface paths, has gentle climbs and leads to viewpoints around the town. Along the Wetter, the route also passes through wetlands and neighbouring forests. If you would like to include a longer leg in your trip, the Residenzenring is a 70-kilometre hiking route in four sections that connects Lich with GrĂĽnberg, Hungen and Laubach. The two routes differ both in length and in whether the focus is on Lich or on a longer route through several towns.
The Wetter, the valley and wildlife
The Gottesackertal follows the course of the Wetter. Ponds, weirs and pastureland shape the valley and are connected with its use by the nearby monastery. A cycle and walking path follows the Wetter through the Gottesackertal towards Lich. These paths through the countryside complement the town’s historic attractions, without every outing having to focus on the same things.
The Wildpark Klosterwald is just a few hundred metres from Arnsburg Monastery. It is home to deer, mouflon, sika deer, emus, alpacas and other animals. Animal populations and visitor rules may change; check the current conditions before your visit.
More experiences and practical information
The Jhring-Melchior private brewery in Lich offers the opportunity to learn more about brewing, visit the brewery and sample speciality beers. Ask in advance which offers are currently available. This lets you consider the brewery as a separate activity alongside the churches, hiking trails and scenery.
There is a motorhome stop on the outskirts of Muschenheim. Check the facilities and terms of use before travelling. The different route lengths also offer a practical guide when deciding between a shorter outing and a longer hike.
Discover more destinations
Staufenberg, Wettenberg, Lollar, Hungen, Buseck, Biebertal, Reiskirchen, Heuchelheim
For the main travel overview: GieĂźen.
