Berwang – Weißenbach am Lech

This hike begins in the small village of Berwang and leads first through gently rolling landscape around the hamlet of Rinnen, at the foot of the Thaneller mountain (2,341 metres), before heading into the idyllic Rotlechtal Valley. Hikers then head along the banks of a small reservoir before reaching the Lech river, one of the few remaining untamed riverscapes in Europe and home to a huge diversity of flora and fauna. The Lechtal Valley itself is a protected area and a nature park. During the Middle Ages the village of Weißenbach am Lech was located on one of the most important transport routes for salt. The hike is relatively easy and suitable for children aged ten years and older. It can also be hiked in the opposite direction.
From the village centre of Berwang (1,336 metres), walk along the main road towards “Rinnen”. Turn right at the chapel just behind the church and follow the sign saying “Fußweg Rinnen”. The trail winds through meadows and groves down to Thanellerkar lift, passes a small lake and runs parallel to the main road down to Rinnen. Having passed the sign-post of Rinnen, bear towards “Stausee” and “Rieden” at the chapel/small church. A paved road takes you through this tiny residential area and gradually descends to a sharp left turn in the road; here the trail leaves the paved road and continues on a forest road that is signposted with “Stausee” and “Rieden” as well. Walk into Rotlechtal Valley through woods and down to Rotlech reservoir. Pass the reservoir and follow the headwaters of Rotlech river and its canyon on the right hand side through the valley (on a relatively level path). When you'll reach another junction, keep the same direction, and continue ahead on the left trail that soon descends. Walk down until you reach the hamlet of Rieden and a paved road; turn left onto a dirt road at the wayside shrine. After a short section through meadows, this trail reaches the exit of Rotlechschlucht canyon. Walk out and turn right onto the road, cross the Lech river and walk through the underpass until you get to the destination end of this hike, Weißenbach (885 metres).