The source area of the Braunlauf: two villages in a nature reserve

This walk takes you through the source area of the Braunlauf. This nature reserve is one of the pearls cherished by Natura 2000 and is known for its high biodiversity and rare species. We walk around and through it, but stay on the public paths. Natura 2000 regularly organizes guided tours in the area. Although we predominantly traverse the open landscape, we pass four villages, each with its own character and sights. While it is already difficult to spot the rare stonechat, there are many noteworthy features that humans have accomplished in the region over the past centuries. Just take a look at the sights along this route.

This is a loop-shaped junction walk. The route is as follows:
67 (Maldingen) - 68 - 25 - 26 - 65 (Braunlauf) - 69 - 64 - 66 - 24 - 67

Although we start the walk in Braunlauf, it is certainly possible to start in any of the three villages. There is always parking available near the church. The nearest junctions are 67 for Maldingen and 65 for Braunlauf.

We have deviated the route here and there on the map and GPS from these junctions. We take a detour past Border Stone 89 (between 66 and 24) and in Braunlauf (between 26 and 65). Just because we thought the sights off the path are worth it. On the other hand, you will need to take the effort to deviate from the junction route yourself if you want to see interesting things.

The road mostly runs on paved roads and is also suitable for strollers, although there is a stretch of unpaved road after junction 66. If you want to complete the entire route by bike, we think that is quite possible.

The distance is about 10 kilometers. That may be too little for some. You can extend the circuit to 17 kilometers by including the loop with Crombach. You can find these walks described separately on RouteYou via this link.

The East Cantons is an area where no one minds one bench more or less. There are many here, and we did not think it worth our while to point them out separately. Often, these rest places are next to a slate cross, under trees, or are strategically placed for a wide panorama.

Finding horeca along the route is difficult. In Crombach, there are cafes near the route, but the opening hours are not always ideal. There are plenty of picnic benches along the route.

One more thing. The many photos were taken during the late summer of 2022. This was also a very dry year for the East Cantons, and at times you might feel like you're in the south of France. In normal years, the region is a green paradise.