Höchst i.Odw. – Nature, Cycling Routes and History

Monastic History in Höchst

The former convent in Höchst is a Fulda Augustinian nunnery dating to around 1200. The church of the former convent is a successor building to the convent church and was built between 1566 and 1568. These two facts reflect different periods in the town’s history: the medieval convent and the later church building. If you are planning a trip with a focus on cultural history, you can combine this historical background with excursions to other attractions.

Nearby, at Hummetroth, five kilometres from Höchst i. Odw., is the archaeological site of the Roman Villa Haselburg, dating from the 2nd century. It is the site of the largest Roman civilian complex discovered to date in Hesse. The history of the area therefore extends beyond the former convent and back to Roman times. The Villa Haselburg and the history of the convent offer different historical points of interest to consider when choosing your excursions.

Woodland and Trails in the Obrunnschlucht

Höchst is in the northern part of the “Bergstraße-Odenwald” Nature Park. The Obrunnschlucht runs southeast from Höchst. This wooded gorge with a stream is about three kilometres long and descends around 150 metres over its length. These details describe a distinctive landscape: the gorge is shaped not just by a path, but by a long wooded stretch with a stream. You can explore it on foot at your own pace; several hiking trails run through it.

The Nonnenweg hiking trail leads from Höchst to Breuberg Castle. As well as trails through the gorge, there is also a route connecting to another historic attraction. If you would rather plan individual days of hiking in nature, you can focus on the Obrunnschlucht; if you would like to include a destination outside Höchst, the Nonnenweg is a named trail that takes you there.

Cycling Routes for Different Rides

Several routes for longer bike rides start in Höchst or the district of Hassenroth, or pass through the town. The 46-kilometre “Hohe Straße” cycle route starts in Höchst or Hassenroth and passes over the Odenwald hills and through the Mümling Valley. The Mümlingtalradweg R1 runs from Obernburg am Main to Hirschhorn am Neckar through the Odenwald and also passes through Höchst. If cycling is an important part of your stay, these routes may be a factor in choosing Höchst as your base.

The shorter named route is the 24-kilometre “Haselburg Rundkurs” cycle route. It connects Höchst and Bad König and runs between the Roman Villa Haselburg and the Odenwald Therme. Together, the three routes offer different options: one over the Odenwald hills and through the Mümling Valley, a longer route through the Odenwald, and a loop between Höchst and Bad König. The distances can help you choose a route that suits the length of ride you have in mind.

More Ideas for Your Stay

Höchst also has a heated outdoor swimming pool with a 60-metre water slide. A day by the water adds another option to the woodland and countryside activities. The 73rd Höchst Apple Blossom Festival took place in Höchst im Odenwald from 8 to 11 May as a celebration of togetherness, joy and living tradition. It is an example of a local festival that brought tradition and community celebrations together.

Whether you plan your days around hiking trails, bike rides, history or a visit to the outdoor pool, these different options can help you find the right setting for your trip and your search for a holiday apartment in Höchst i.Odw.

Discover More Places

If you would also like to explore other places, you can find pages about Breuberg, Bad König, Brensbach, Mossautal, Brombachtal, Beerfelden, Michelstadt and Reichelsheim.

For the overarching travel overview: Odenwald.