Altkönig: Summit of History and Nature
Discover panoramic views and ancient Celtic history atop Altkönig Gipfel, the Taunus range's third highest peak, offering a blend of nature and historical intrigue near Frankfurt.
Ascend to the Altkönig Gipfel, the third highest peak in the Taunus mountain range, and immerse yourself in a landscape steeped in history and natural beauty. This 798-meter summit offers panoramic views stretching across the Rhine-Main region, rewarding hikers with vistas of Frankfurt's skyline and the rolling hills of the Taunus. Explore the remnants of Celtic ring walls, silent witnesses to the region's ancient past, and discover the unique flora and fauna of this protected natural area. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual nature enthusiast, the Altkönig Gipfel promises an unforgettable experience, blending historical intrigue with breathtaking scenery. The trails leading to the summit are well-maintained but can be steep and rocky in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
A brief summary to Altkönig Gipfel
- Unnamed Road, 61476, Kronberg, DE
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trails can be steep and rocky, especially after rain.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at the summit, as there are picnic tables with stunning panoramic views.
- Visit during the week or early mornings on weekends to avoid crowds.
- Explore the Celtic ring walls near the summit to delve into the area's ancient history.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Frankfurt, take the S-Bahn line S5 to Oberursel (Taunus)-Hohemark. From there, take bus line 57 towards Sandplacken. Get off at the 'Große Kurve' stop. From there, follow the marked hiking trails to the Altkönig Gipfel. The hike from the bus stop to the summit is approximately 45-60 minutes. A single bus fare from Oberursel-Hohemark to Große Kurve is approximately €3-4. Ensure to check the bus schedule in advance as service may be infrequent, especially on weekends and holidays.
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Driving
From Frankfurt, take the A661 and L3004 to Sandplacken. Limited free parking is available at Sandplacken. From Sandplacken, follow the hiking trails to the Altkönig Gipfel (approx. 30-45 minutes). Parking can be very limited, especially on weekends and during peak season; arrive early. As an alternative, consider parking at the Taunus Information Center at Oberursel-Hohemark (U-Bahn station) and taking the bus (see Public Transport guidance). Note that during winter months, the L3004 may be closed due to snow. Check road conditions before you go. Parking at Sandplacken is free.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Königstein, a taxi or ride-share to the Sandplacken trailhead will cost approximately €20-€30 and take around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. From Sandplacken, follow the hiking trails to the Altkönig Gipfel (approx. 30-45 minutes). Be aware that ride-share availability in the Sandplacken area may be limited for the return trip, especially during off-peak hours. Pre-booking a taxi for the return is recommended.
Discover more about Altkönig Gipfel
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