Pilgern im Remstal (1): Die Quelle - Essingen bis Böbingen

Not for tired hikers - the route begins leisurely along meadows and the young Rems, but then climbs steeply again and again. The reward: sweeping views of the Ostalb.

Once you have left Essingen behind you, you are initially immersed in lovely nature: the Rems floodplains of the still very young Rems, which is just one meter wide. The source of the Rems itself is somewhat inconspicuous - but it is still worthwhile to see how the river, which is impressive at high water, emerges as a spring. From now on, you leave the Rems and it is more of an "Eastern Alb pilgrimage". First you have to climb the "Hart" after around 4.5 km at 679 m, then later - after Lautern - the flank of the Rosenstein up to 617 m. This mountain is always in view, as is the Rems Valley, which, however, does not give the impression of a valley - the view extends far too far to the east, north and west.

The paths are mostly gravel, often in the form of footpaths and usually steeply uphill or downhill. Most of the time is spent in the forest, so the tour is also ideal on summer days. After Lautern and a strenuous ascent, you can take a break at the Swabian Albverein, local group Lautern.