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Esslingen celebrates first-class hiking trails: Hochgehberge awarded again!
Beuren, in the Esslingen district, is known for its excellent "hochgehberge" hiking trails. Find out more about the new certifications and recognitions.
Esslingen celebrates first-class hiking trails: Hochgehberge awarded again!
Hiking trails in the picturesque Esslingen district have once again been awarded the coveted “Premium Hiking Trail” hiking seal. According to the Esslinger newspaper The German Hiking Institute certified a total of three of the seven premium hiking trails known under the “hochgehberge” brand.
A total of eight trails were awarded the hiking seal this year. Laura Neubert from the Hochgehberge office emphasizes the commitment of the trail sponsors and the good cooperation with cooperation partners. The public transport connection of the hiking trails and the availability of public toilets along the routes received particular recognition, which earned additional points in the evaluation.
Evaluation criteria for the hiking trails
The paths are recertified every three years. The quality is assessed based on a detailed catalog of criteria, which includes aspects such as the varied and natural paths, signage, the equipment with seating and rest areas as well as the flora and fauna. Scenic and cultural attractions also play a role in the overall grade. This year, the paths “hochgehfestigt” and “hochgehnießen” near Beuren as well as “hochgehsiedelt” in the communities of Erkenbrechtsweiler, Hülben and Neuffen were recertified.
The hiking trails offer something for everyone, whether easy tours for families or more demanding routes. The official handover of the certificates is scheduled for the CMT 2026 tourism trade fair in Stuttgart. The “hochgehberge” also made it into the nomination for the Löwenmensch Award in the outdoor category. This is awarded by the Swabian Alb Tourism Association every two to three years and recognizes innovative tourism projects.
Assessment and participation
The award evaluates various criteria, including sustainable commitment, regional identity, value creation, innovative strength, model character and digitalization. New this year is a public voting, which runs until mid-October and accounts for 30% of the overall rating, while the jury contributes 70%.
The good news is that the area's trails continue to see great enthusiasm and support. Hikers can look forward to another year full of nature-based experiences. Information on creative design options for foyers could also be inspiring for planning the local tourism infrastructure. Loud e-a-a They include, among other things, elegant chandeliers, accent chairs and large works of art designed to welcome visitors.
The opening of new routes and tourism projects contributes to strengthening the region and its identity. The desire is clear: the “hochgehberge” should act as a flagship for hiking tourism in the Swabian Alb.