Uni Tübingen

Hiking Tour: Hohenzollern Castle and the Swabian Jura

Join us for a memorable autumn hike to one of the most iconic landmarks in Baden-Württemberg: the magnificent Hohenzollern Castle!

We'll take the train from Tübingen to Hechingen, where our hike begins. From there, we'll make our way through the beautiful surrounding countryside towards the castle, enjoying the crisp autumn air and spectacular views along the way.

Our first stop is the Hohenzollern Castle. We'll take a break at the castle, where everyone will have the opportunity to admire its impressive architecture and panoramic views. Those interested can also visit the castle interior (optional).

After our castle visit, we'll continue hiking towards Zellerhornwiese, where we'll enjoy even more beautiful views of the castle and the surrounding Swabian Jura.
If the weather and local conditions permit, we'll make a stop at a designated barbecue area (Grillplatz). We'll gather some wood together, make a fire, and enjoy a cosy outdoor break. So, if you'd like to join the fun, bring some sausages, marshmallows, or other treats to grill over the fire!

Hike Details: 

  • Distance: Hechingen – Hohenzollern Castle – Zellerhornwiese and the surrounding area (13-14 km)
  • Difficulty: Moderate, with uphill sections towards the castle
  • Elevation gain: approximately 300 m
  • Hiking time and distance: approximately 6 hours, including breaks and sightseeing
  • Total duration: approximately 8–9 hours, including train journeys

Return to Tübingen: Late afternoon or early evening, depending on the group's pace and train connections.

DATE AND TIME: 
November 8, 2026 
8.30 a.m. 

MEETING POINT:
In the entrance hall of the main station / Hauptbahnhof Tübingen
Europaplatz 19, 72072 Tübingen
https://maps.app.goo.gl/dsDvQp6FX8GK5afC7

IMPORTANT: 

  • The hike is not suitable for participants under 14 years old or individuals with heart conditions or other serious medical issues that could be affected by physical exertion. The paths are not wheelchair accessible.
  • Check the weather beforehand and be prepared for cold or rain.
  • Wear good hiking shoes with strong grip.
  • Bring at least 2 liters of water, lunch, and plenty of snacks.
  • Warm layers and a rain jacket (November weather can be unpredictable!)
  • Sausages, marshmallows, or other goodies for the grill (optional)
  • Don't forget your Student ID and/or DeutschlandTicket/Jugendticket for bus travel.
  • This tour is organized and conducted by one of our volunteers (Armin Vahdat). Therefore, the registration process and handling differs slightly from the organization by the Welcome Center.

Please read the information below regarding payment, organization etc. carefully.

Registration

To secure your spot, kindly follow these steps:

  • Send €5 to Armin’s PayPal account (nicerobservatoryspam prevention@gmail.com) to confirm your participation. Add only your WhatsApp-enabled number and full name in the PayPal payment description (e.g., +49 1761234567 John Smith).
  • You may invite up to three guests (friends or family). In that case, please pay for them and include +1 in the PayPal description (e.g., +49 1761234567 John Smith +1).
  • Please note: There is no waiting list and cancellations by the registered participants are non-refundable. Participation is limited to 25 people on a first-come, first-served basis. If you register after the limit is reached, you will be automatically refunded.
  • The payment deadline is 11:59 p.m. on November 5, 2026. However, registration will close promptly once the 25-person limit is reached, with a notification posted on our Welcome Center Stammtisch WhatsApp group. On November 6 we will add the registered participants to the hiking WhatsApp group and share additional journey details.

If you have any questions, please contact Armin Vahdat directly at nicerobservatory@gmail.com.

GENERAL INFORMATION:
The hike will take place in all weather conditions, except in the case of an emergency or a transportation strike affecting access to the destination.
By registering, you agree to these terms and conditions.

Please also note our general event regulations.