Camping in the Dahn Rockland

Since my family lives in the Palatinate, I regularly go hiking in the Dahner Felsenland. The name comes from the bizarre sandstone rock formations that shape the landscape. The red and yellow rocks in various sizes and shapes are especially popular with sport climbers. The many castles are also characteristic of the region. As a child, I explored the Drachenfels ruins, built on a striking sandstone rock. Stairs, rooms and passages are carved directly into the stone. Narrow ladders and steps lead to the former keep at the highest point of the castle rock, where you are rewarded with a wonderful view. Below the castle, the Drachenfelshütte offers a welcoming place to stop and rest.

My tip: The Dahner Felsenpfad hiking trail, marked with a black rock on an orange background, leads past the most beautiful rock formations in the area. Highlights include Elwetritschefels, Mooskopf, Ungeheuerfelsen and the rock pair Braut und Bräutigam. The circular trail is about 12.5 kilometres long and takes around five hours. It starts at the Büttelwoog campsite. Good hiking shoes, sure footing and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.