Höchst i.Odw.: Monastery History and Nature

Monastery history, a wooded gorge, and named hiking and cycling routes give Höchst i.Odw. its distinct character. The municipality lies in the northern part of the “Bergstraße-Odenwald” Nature Park.

Monastery and Roman History

The former convent in Höchst is a Fulda Augustinian convent dating to around 1200. The church of the former convent is a successor building to the abbey church and was built between 1566 and 1568. This places the early history of the monastery and a later church building side by side as two distinct historical points of interest.

Another historical trace can be found nearby: the “Roman Villa Haselburg” archaeological site, dating from the 2nd century, is located near Hummetroth, 5 km from Höchst i.Odw. Haselburg is the largest Roman civilian complex discovered to date in Hesse. The local history of the monastery and the Roman archaeological site near Hummetroth are therefore distinct subjects to keep separate when planning your trip.

Explore the Obrunn Gorge on Foot

The Obrunn Gorge runs southeast from Höchst. This wooded ravine is about 3 km long and is traversed by a stream; along its length, it descends around 150 metres. The woodland, water and change in elevation together shape the landscape, making the gorge a clearly defined natural highlight of your stay.

Several hiking trails lead through the Obrunn Gorge. You can explore it on foot and independently. If you are planning a hike, the stream and the stated change in elevation give you a concrete idea of the landscape to expect. The figures for length and elevation gain remain approximate.

Compare Hiking and Cycling Routes

The cycling routes also differ in length and course. The “Hohe Straße” cycle route is 46 km long and starts in Höchst or in the district of Hassenroth; it runs across the Odenwald hills and through the Mümling valley. The 24 km “Haselburg Circuit” connects Höchst and Bad König and runs between the Roman Villa and the Odenwald Therme. You can distinguish the two routes by both their stated lengths and the places and destinations mentioned.

The Mümlingtal Cycle Route R1 runs through the Odenwald and Höchst, from Obernburg am Main to Hirschhorn am Neckar. For a hike, the “Nonnenweg” leads from Höchst to Breuberg Castle. Together, these routes offer different reference points: a cycle route starting in Höchst or Hassenroth, a connection between Höchst and Bad König, a route through Höchst between two named endpoints, and a hiking connection to Breuberg Castle.

If you are looking for accommodation in Höchst, the starting points and route courses may influence your choice of location: the Hohe Straße starts in Höchst or Hassenroth, while the Haselburg Circuit connects Höchst and Bad König.

Outdoor Pool and Festival Tradition

Höchst has a heated outdoor pool with a 60 m-long water slide. This is a different activity from hiking and cycling. If you are planning to visit the pool, check the current opening hours before you go.

The Höchst Apple Blossom Festival is also part of the local festival tradition: the 73rd festival was held in Höchst as a celebration of community, joy and living tradition.

Discover More Destinations

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Back to the main travel overview: Odenwald.