Epfendorf

The Schlichem Gorge and river landscape

The deep gorge carved by the Schlichem is one of the distinctive landscape features near Epfendorf. The rocks mentioned—shell limestone and Lower Keuper—form the plateau into which the stream has cut. Exposures on the slopes and in the stream bed add to this picture. The Schlichem itself follows a route of just over 30 kilometres through Jurassic strata, Keuper and shell limestone before flowing into the Neckar at Epfendorf. Those interested in the landscape and its geology will find several aspects connected here: the course of the stream, the geological units and the exposures created by the gorge.

Hiking: the full route or sections

The Schlichem hiking trail runs from its source in Tieringen to the point where the Schlichem flows into the Neckar at Epfendorf. It is 33 kilometres long and can also be explored in sections. This option is useful when planning a trip if you are interested in the trail but do not want to take on the entire route as a single undertaking. The 33-kilometre figure refers to the hiking trail, while just over 30 kilometres describes the Schlichem’s course. This makes it possible to distinguish between the river’s course and the hiking route without conflating the two figures.

The Epfendorf “Gedanken bergauf” contemplation trail offers a different way to connect nature and culture. Its ten stations lead from the Neckar in the centre of Epfendorf uphill to the Marienkapelle (Chapel of St Mary). Nature, culture and spirituality are the themes of this route. It offers a distinct alternative to the Schlichem hiking trail: here, the focus is on the ten stations and the ascent from the Neckar to the chapel, while the hiking trail follows the Schlichem from Tieringen to Epfendorf. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Epfendorf, you can consider whether your trip will focus more on the longer hiking trail, the contemplation trail or the scenery of the gorge.

Seasonal customs

The Easter fountain is decorated with painted eggs and greenery created by children and adults. These are arranged above a flowing spring in the form of a victory crown topped with a palm cross. The custom combines collaborative crafting with a distinctive design: the eggs and greenery make up the decoration, while the crown and palm cross give it its form. For families who would also like to discover local traditions while travelling, this Easter custom offers a cultural point of interest alongside the trails and landscape.

During Advent, Epfendorf holds its “Evening Hour in Advent.” For over ten years, children, young people and adults have gathered once a week to prepare for the coming of Jesus through prayer, singing and meditation. The participation of different age groups and the combination of these three elements define the character of the gathering. Together with the Easter fountain, it shows that Epfendorf’s attractions are not limited to outdoor activities and scenery, but also include religious customs.

More town pages: Schiltach, Fluorn-Winzeln, Schramberg, Wellendingen, Vöhringen, Eschbronn, Villingendorf, Dietingen.

For the regional travel overview: Rottweil.