From the starting point at the parking lot, go back a short way on the access road. Then the path branches off to the right into the steep slope towards the Alkener Bachtal. The path winds through the forest in switchbacks and crosses the stream in the valley. For a short stretch, you follow the lane alongside the stream uphill.
The ascent to Thurant Castle is accompanied by the Bleidenberger Ausblicke Traumpfad. Later, the Moselsteig also joins. The path emerges from the forest, and Thurant Castle is reached. The castle should definitely be visited.
The descent to Alken now runs over rocky paths, past rock outcrops offering the best views of the Moselle valley and Alken. In the last few meters into the village, you also pass the old church of St. Michael.
Most places to stop for refreshments are along the Moselle promenade.
For the now following steep ascent up the Stations of the Cross to the Bleidenberg, you should take your time. Along the way, there are benches to take a short break or simply enjoy the view back into the valley.
Once on the Bleidenberg, the circular path around the plateau now connects. The path along the edge of the slope is still accompanied by the Moselsteig and Traumpfad. The perspective slightly above the castle is unusual and spectacular. The rest facilities at the hut reached shortly afterward leave nothing to be desired.
A short time later, you reach a reconstructed Homo erectus camp site. The metal sculpture of the giant forest elephant is particularly impressive.
Moselsteig and Traumtour now lead downhill towards Oberfell. The way back to the starting point leads largely on level ground around the plateau. Mostly, it goes through the forest, behind the Bleidenbergerhof, and back to the parking lot at the pilgrimage church.
