Above the starting point lies the Schock Chapel, also known by locals as the Armesünderkapelle. In front of the chapel, a slate plaque lists scenic viewpoints located far away in the Eifel. Soon, the
trail
winds downhill along dirt-covered, winding forest paths to the Mörsdorfer Bach.Behind the Pulgermühle, the trail begins its journey through the Flaumbach Valley, passing through open meadowland along the edge of the forest.
After crossing the Flaumbach, you’ll encounter three via ferrata routes: the Burgberg Via Ferrata, the Schinnkaul Via Ferrata, and the Höhlenschlucht Via Ferrata. Those who prefer not to tackle the challenges of the via ferrata can use the signposted bypass. The bypass trail and the via ferrata rejoin after a few minutes.
The trail then winds through the extensive forest area, past old slate mines, slate spoil heaps, and partially reconstructed homes of the former slate miners. On a sensory bench, you can rest after the long climb out of the Flaumbach Valley and enjoy sweeping views of the Eifel.
The trail was rated 90 “experience points” by the German Hiking Institute.
Winding trails, unspoiled stream valleys, and three via ferrata routes integrated into the trail (which can be bypassed) at lofty heights promise a hiking experience of the highest caliber. Added to this are magnificent views of the Hunsrück and the Moselle Valley, stretching far into the Eifel. The trail also passes by old slate mines, slate spoil heaps, and reconstructed homes of the former slate miners.
Directions: Schulstraße 1, 56858 Mittelstrimmig
Directions: Waldstraße, 56858 Altstrimmig
Directions: Schulstraße, 56858 Liesenich
Bus Route 719
Parking is available at all three starting gates
From the parking lot, we follow the signs for the “Traumschleife” trail out of the village and reach the Mittelstrimmig entrance. From here, we hike about 300 meters along a paved path, passing a tree trail that can be educational not only for younger hikers. After enjoying the beautiful view at the “Schockkapelle,” we carefully cross the L200 and enter the Schockwald. Here, the trail passes a covered shelter with a barbecue area. The hike now takes us into open terrain. From this elevated spot, we enjoy the beautiful panoramic view across the valley. Continuing on, we keep to the left for about 1,200 meters downhill along natural dirt roads and a narrow trail to the Altstrimmig entrance. There, another covered shelter with barbecue facilities awaits us. At the Altstrimmig entrance, there is a public restroom and a new wetland habitat. On a narrow, winding path through a quiet forest alongside a small stream, we walk about 500 meters downhill to the “Bildbach.” We keep to the left and hike about 1,300 meters to the Mörsdorfer Bachtal. Here we keep to the left once more and follow the so-called “Talrandweg” along the “Mörsdorfer Bach,” where we come across the first benches. After about 2,000 meters, we reach the first sensory bench, where we can enjoy the tranquility of the valley and the murmur of the stream. Those who wish can also explore the geology a short distance further on at a covered seating area. Armed with plenty of information, we set off again through the partly open valley, past the Birkmühle. Shortly before we reach the Pulgermühle, we turn left and follow the path about 50 meters uphill to the road, which we cross carefully. After another 500 meters on a forest trail, we enter the Flaumbach Valley and hike about 900 meters through the partially open valley until we reach the “Flaumbach.” We keep to the left and make our way along a narrow path for about 300 meters, walking almost in the water alongside the Flaumbach, until we cross the Flaumbach via an impressive bridge. Continuing through the quiet valley, after about 200 meters we approach the first via ferrata of our dream loop. The alternative route continues through the valley to the “Schafsbrücke.” Anyone who isn’t afraid of the via ferrata will be rewarded with a magnificent view of the Flaumbach Valley once they reach the top. After descending on the other side of the “Burgberg,” even the climbers will reach the “Schafsbrücke.” Now we head into the forest and hike uphill along the historic Keltenweg for about 300 meters until we reach a crossroads. This is where the approach to the route’s second via ferrata begins. We make our way through young mixed forest along a narrow path for about 300 meters to the base of the small “Kanzel,” where we then ascend using crampons embedded in the rock. Here, too, there is the option to bypass the via ferrata. Once at the top, we enjoy another beautiful view. Refreshed, we continue on a gentle ascent for about 100 meters until we turn right onto a trail. We hike another 300 meters uphill on soft, leaf-covered forest paths to reach the Große Kanzel. Another sensory bench, several resting benches, and a hut invite you to linger. Everyone should take a moment here to enjoy the view over the Flaumbach Valley once more. After this break, the trail continues along narrow paths to the third via ferrata, which leads down a ladder to the old slate tunnels; of course, this section can also be bypassed. After the slate tunnels—which served as shelters during World War II—the trail climbs gently and passes a wetland habitat. After crossing the main road, we follow a path to the Liesenich Portal. Here, too, a sensory bench invites us to take a break. The final stretch of the hike is an easy walk along quiet country roads, past a fish pond, back to the starting point at the Mittelstrimmig Portal.
All of the “Traumschleifen” trails feature sections that are sometimes steep, challenging, and slippery in rainy or winter weather. Therefore, hiking boots, sure-footedness, and good physical condition are absolute prerequisites for hiking these premium loop trails.
This “Traumschleife” trail is not accessible in icy or snowy conditions.
Three climbing sections require a head for heights. These via ferrata sections can also be bypassed.
Sturdy footwear (hiking boots) is strongly recommended.
Visit to the Local History Museum in 56858 Mittelstrimmig
Zeller Land Tourismus GmbH, Balduinstraße 44, 56856 Zell (Mosel), Tel. +49 6542 96220
www.zellerland.de
www.zellerland.de
Hunsrück-Nahe Tourismus GmbH, Bahnhofstr. 37, 55606 Kirn
Tel. +49 6752 137610 www.hunsruecknahe.de
respective starting points
