ヴァーレナウの洞窟・トップ12

Along with agriculture and livestock farming, the mills were not only one of the main sources of income in the Dhron Valley, but also the primary breadwinners of the population. They also shaped the upper Dhron Valley, as the use of hydropower was essential in pre-technological times. The "Heckenmühle" (Hedge Mill) here in the Waldbach Valley was already recorded on maps at the beginning of the 19th century. Since the miller families also farmed, the Waldbach stream ran through an open meadow valley at that time. For a long time, the mill was operated by a Hinzerath milling community. After World War II, the mill was abandoned. The bricks were gradually reused.

A dream loop that could hardly be more fitting: The LandZeitTour near Morbach-Hinzerath combines tranquil nature with history and enjoyment. The start leads through gently rolling meadows filled with the scent of freshly mown hay. Later, a footbridge follows through the greenery, leading directly to the Baldenau Castle ruins. The old moated castle is the undisputed highlight: surrounded by reeds, water, and old masonry, it creates an almost fairytale atmosphere. Those who take their time will discover many loving details – and a touch of a cinematic backdrop. The route is pleasant to walk, well-marked, and offers many quiet moments – with views that allow the soul to breathe. There are plenty of benches, and the tour is also worthwhile for photography enthusiasts in every respect. My conclusion: A leisurely tour with depth. Ideal for those who don't just want to cover distance but also want to experience the landscape. If you start early, you often have the paths all to yourself – and the castle almost exclusively.

A wooden path leads you through a blooming meadow landscape – and directly to the venerable walls of the castle ruins. The view of the tower feels like a window into the Middle Ages, framed by green forest and tranquil nature. Standing here, you can sense history firsthand. Tip: The path is slightly elevated and easy to walk on – ideal for photo opportunities, especially in the late afternoon with warm light.

Baldenau Castle ruins are always worth a visit, even in autumn!

Nice castle ruins, there is not much left, but still worth a detour

Beautiful castle ruins, a great dream loop starts here. But it's still worth a visit.

Dill Castle is a ruin. The Spornburg sits on a mountain spur above the Dillerbach, in the middle of the 200 soul town of Dill in the Hunsrück. It was probably built in the 11th century, and Adalbert von Dill Graf von Mörsberg (County of Sponheim) is said to be the founder. During the War of the Palatinate Succession in 1697, the castle was destroyed by a French army. The town of Dill was spared.

The town, which has a population of 200, is the start and finish of the Diller Castle Trail dream loop. The town itself has beautiful half-timbered houses. The church is also worth seeing, as are the castle ruins. Nobody needs to go thirsty here, because there is a rest area in front of the castle entrance and you can get self-service drinks at fair prices in the old weighing house. And if you've had too much to drink, you can relieve yourself in the well-maintained toilet facilities about 100 meters away.