Mespelbrunn Robbers' Trail: Stories and Tales

The trail is generally considered moderate in difficulty. It requires good basic fitness, but the paths are easily accessible, making it suitable for a range of skill levels. According to the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) Hiking Scale, it corresponds to SAC 2-3.

You can expect varied terrain, including extensive forests and narrow paths, alongside wider forest roads. The path consists of a mix of unpaved, natural, gravel, asphalt, and paved sections. There are constant changes between high and low forest paths, and you'll follow the Elsava stream for parts of the route.

Key highlights include the picturesque Mespelbrunn Castle, known for its role in the film "Das Wirtshaus im Spessart." You'll also pass the Water wheel at the site of the former Kullmann mill and the Crypt chapel of St. Maria (Ingelheim burial site). The trail also features listening stations that narrate the famous Spessart robber stories.

The trail integrates the tales of the Spessart robbers through an 8 km "Räubertour" section. Along this part, you'll find seven audio points where a "robber captain" narrates the story of "Das Wirtshaus im Spessart." You can access these stories with your smartphone by scanning QR codes found on trees and benches.

The trail is a round trip that typically starts at a parking lot near the Wanderheim in Mespelbrunn. An information board at the start provides orientation for your hike. Parking is generally available at this location.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near other hikers, and always clean up after your pet.

No, you do not need a permit to hike the Mespelbrunn robbers' trail, nor is there an entrance fee for the Naturpark Spessart itself. Access to the natural areas is generally free. However, if you wish to tour Mespelbrunn Castle, there may be an admission fee.

The trail is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring offers blooming nature, while autumn provides beautiful fall foliage. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winter can be magical with snow, but some sections might be slippery. Always check local weather conditions before you go.

Yes, the Mespelbrunn robbers' trail is part of a network of paths in the Spessart. It shares sections with other routes such as the Gebietswanderweg Roter Schrägstrich: Volkersbrunn => Echterspfahl, Roter Hase, Rundwanderweg Mespelbrunn, and the Räuberwanderweg, among others.

Mespelbrunn, being a popular tourist destination, offers several options for refreshments. You'll find cafes and restaurants in the village, particularly near Mespelbrunn Castle, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink before or after your hike.

The Mespelbrunn robbers' trail is designed as a round trip, meaning it's a loop trail. You will start and end at the same location, typically the parking lot near the Wanderheim, without having to retrace your steps.