Alb Shepherd’s Trail

In the Lone Valley, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Caves and Ice Age Art in the Swabian Alb is home to three of the six cave sites where Ice Age hunters carved figures such as the mammoth and lion man from mammoth ivory and played the flute 40,000 years ago, and a geological adventure at the end of the valley below the Charlottenhöhle cave.

Neresheim Abbey and Katzenstein Castle tower over the rolling hills of the Härtsfeld, both cultural treasures.

Starting in the town of Tuttlingen, the trail takes you through different landscapes. You’ll walk through rolling hills and open meadows, which are a nice and easy start. In the early morning, you might see mists in the valleys, which add a peaceful feel to your hike. Along the way, you’ll see signs telling stories about the shepherds who used to bring their flocks here.

The trail then goes up into thick forests, where the trees provide cool shade. Especially helpful if you’re hiking in the high summer! Sometimes, you’ll pass old rock formations and karst landscapes that are common in the Swabian Alb.

One of the best parts is reaching the hilltops. From there, you get wide views of the area, connecting you to the history of the shepherds who walked these paths. The trails are well-marked, making it easy to find your way and enjoy the surroundings.

In theory, the roundtrip route can be walked all year round. Of course, the main walking season in a low mountain range is from spring to autumn. You will be walking through beech woods or sections of coniferous forest, as well as across the rough grasslands and meadows of the Alb plateau.

Each season has its charms: in spring you can experience the bright, delicate green of the leaves; in summer you can hike in the pleasant shade of the deciduous trees; autumn, with its golden time (Indian summer), is the great hiking season on the Swabian Alb. In winter you can enjoy even more panoramic views through the fallen leaves of the trees and, in special weather conditions, you can hike in the sun above a huge sea of fog.

However, take extra care on icy paths and trails.

As you plan your hike, please consider several key factors for a safe time. Before setting out, conduct thorough research on your chosen trail, assessing factors such as difficulty, length, elevation gain, and terrain. Seek valuable insights not only from websites but also from guidebooks, experienced hikers, and local hiking organizations.

Effective planning is essential. Share your hiking plans with family or friends, providing details like start and end times, your chosen route, and emergency contacts. This serves as a critical safety measure in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Stay informed about weather conditions in the area. Avoid hiking during severe weather, such as thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, or extreme heat, which can pose significant risks.

Staying hydrated and nourished is vital. Ensure you have enough water and energy-rich snacks to maintain your energy levels and prevent dehydration and exhaustion. Carry at least two liters of water.

Familiarize yourself with the trail map and carry navigation tools like a compass or GPS device to stay oriented and avoid getting lost.

Invest in the right hiking gear, including supportive footwear, proper clothing such as warm base layers and a waterproof jacket, hiking poles, a well-fitted backpack, and essential equipment like maps, GPS devices, and a first-aid kit. Refer to comprehensive gear lists for long-distance trails.

Respect Leave No Trace principles by minimizing environmental impact. Stick to designated trails, pack out all trash, and show respect for wildlife and natural habitats.