The town of Bad Urach is well known for its picturesque waterfall and quite rightly so. But this tranquil community in the Erms Valley has much more to offer hikers. In this Collection, we show you the five ‘Grafensteige’ trails around Bad Urach, all of which have been designated as premium hiking trails.

The routes lead you through the unique landscape of the Swabian Alb and offer fantastic views, rugged rock formations, stately castles and, of course, an extraordinary waterfall. Look forward to varied circular walks through mixed forests, vibrant orchards and lush juniper heaths. Pure Swabian Alb – to the power of five.

The Grafensteige trails have all the ingredients for excellent hiking: you stay mostly on natural paths, the routes are well signposted and you can expect numerous highlights that make hiking fun for the whole family. None of the hikes are more than 10 kilometres (6 mi) long, so you have plenty of time to enjoy the landscape and the views along the way – ideally with a snack in your rucksack.

The Wasserfallsteig (Waterfall Trail) was named Germany's most beautiful hiking trail in 2016 and includes two phenomenal waterfalls. But the other four Grafensteige trails also impress with their beauty. The Hochbergsteig scores with its magnificent vantage points while rocks, distant views and a fortress await you on the Hohenwittlingensteig. On the Seeburgsteig, you will be accompanied by sheep and goats from time to time while the Hohenurachsteig leads you up to the impressive castle ruins that tower over Bad Urach.

If you plan to spend several days hiking on the Alb, Bad Urach has plenty of accommodation. In the picturesque town with its half-timbered charm, you’ll find everything you need after an active day in the fresh air. You can also travel to and from the town by train.

Put on your hiking boots and head up to the Swabian Alb. You'll soon be immersed in its exquisite hiking trails.