Kleinich – Church, Valley Trail and Landscapes

Kleinich can be explored through two very different highlights: its distinctive church and the Valley Trail of the Moselsteig “Kirchspiel” side trail. The hike combines open upland fields with wooded stream valleys; along the way are rock formations, cave entrances and the remains of a mill. The focus of your trip planning is therefore on architectural history and a longer route through varied landscapes.

A church with a long history

Kleinich’s church has been documented since 1318. The surviving bell tower was incorporated into the new church building, constructed by 1790. Roman finds discovered during demolition work suggest that an earlier ancient place of worship may have stood here. The finds point to a possible earlier use of the site; however, the interpretation as a place of worship remains a supposition.

The Valley Trail: duration and route

The Valley Trail of the Moselsteig “Kirchspiel” side trail is a 13.1-kilometre, moderately difficult circular hike with a stated duration of about 4.5 hours. The start and finish are at the small car park by Kleinich’s Protestant church. The time estimate can help you plan your hiking day; check the provider’s latest information before setting out.

The route passes through open upland fields and wooded stream valleys, alongside flowing water and quartzite boulders. Notable points include the Bildstein rock formation, entrances to slate caves and the remains of a mill. The trail thus offers a variety of points of interest: open landscapes, wooded valleys, rock formations and traces of a former mill.

Getting there and provisions

Bus services to the settlements in the Kirchspiel area are limited. Travelling by car is recommended for the Valley Trail; there is a small car park at the starting point by the church. There are no places to stop for refreshments or provisions along the hike, so you should bring your own supplies. Check the latest information about getting there and the route before you set off.

Bernkastel-Wittlich as the wider destination

The wider destination of Bernkastel-Wittlich brings together the volcanic Eifel, the romantic Moselle Valley and the Hunsrück, rich in forests and meadows. For outdoor activities, the 816-metre-high Erbeskopf is a great place to go hiking; there are also a variety of winter sports options. At the Erbeskopf, the National Park Gate provides information about nature and the environment. Its interactive multimedia exhibition focuses on forests and moors.

The wider destination of Bernkastel-Wittlich also offers a range of cultural attractions. The pilgrimage church of Maria Heimsuchung in Klausen was consecrated in 1502; Klausen remains a destination for pilgrims every year. The Cusanus birthplace in Kues, used as a museum and event venue, features a permanent exhibition about Nicholas of Cusa. The Zylinderhaus explores 90 years of German automotive history and displays more than 100 cars, motorcycles and vans. Religious and philosophical history thus sit alongside an exhibition on the history of technology.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Zeltingen-Rachtig, Minheim, Longkamp, Andel, Ürzig, Wehlen, Noviand, Lieser.

Return to the broader travel overview: Bernkastel-Kues.