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hikers
Aufseß Breweries Trail
03:25
13.0km
120m
Hiking
Hike the moderate 8.1-mile Brewery trail in Franconian Switzerland, exploring rolling hills, charming villages, and local breweries.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
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Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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1.92 km
Double Bridge Over the Aufseß
Highlight • Bridge
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3.69 km
View of Neuhaus from the Taschnerfelsen
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9.25 km
Reichold Brewery Inn
Highlight • Pub
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11.3 km
Kathi-Bräu Heckenhof
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12.8 km
Rothenbach Brewery Inn
Highlight • Restaurant
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13.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.18 km
2.81 km
2.01 km
824 m
131 m
Surfaces
6.46 km
4.82 km
838 m
741 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (470 m)
Lowest point (400 m)
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Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
12°C
7°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Brewery trail - circular tour in Franconian Switzerland start and where can I park?
The trail is a circular tour, meaning it starts and ends at the same point. While the exact starting point isn't specified, circular routes in this region often begin in one of the charming villages. Look for parking options near the villages along the route, such as Aufseß or Neuhaus, which are common access points for trails in Franconian Switzerland.
Is this brewery trail dog-friendly?
Yes, generally, trails in Franconian Switzerland are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially when passing through villages, near livestock, or in crowded areas. Remember to bring water for your dog and clean up after them.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The Franconian Switzerland region is beautiful year-round. Spring (April-May) offers blooming landscapes, while autumn (September-October) provides stunning fall colors and pleasant temperatures. Summer (June-August) is also popular, but can be warmer. Winter hiking is possible, but some brewery inns might have reduced hours, and conditions can be icy.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for this trail or the Naturpark Fränkische Schweiz - Frankenjura?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail or to access the Naturpark Fränkische Schweiz - Frankenjura. It's a publicly accessible natural area. However, please respect local regulations, especially regarding litter, noise, and fire.
Is this trail suitable for beginners or families?
This trail is rated as 'moderate' with an elevation gain of about 115 meters over nearly 13 kilometers. While it's not overly strenuous, it does require a good level of fitness for the duration. Families with younger children or absolute beginners might find the distance challenging, but those with some hiking experience should manage well. Sturdy shoes are recommended.
How long does it typically take to complete this circular tour?
This circular tour typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes to complete at a steady hiking pace. This duration doesn't include stops for enjoying the breweries or scenic viewpoints, so plan for extra time if you wish to fully experience the route.
What kind of terrain and scenery can I expect on the route?
You can expect a diverse landscape with gently rolling hills, often referred to as 'Franconian Tuscany'. The route leads through charming forelands, dense woods, and alongside fields and meadows. You'll encounter picturesque half-timbered villages, rustic beer cellars, and traditional inns. The trail surfaces vary, including asphalt, gravel, paved sections, and natural footpaths.
What highlights will I see along the way?
Along this route, you'll encounter several interesting points. Keep an eye out for the Double Bridge Over the Aufseß and enjoy the View of Neuhaus from the Taschnerfelsen. You'll also pass by traditional establishments like the Reichold Brewery Inn, Kathi-Bräu Heckenhof, and Rothenbach Brewery Inn, perfect for a refreshment.
Does this trail connect with other hiking routes?
Yes, this route shares sections with several other official trails. Notably, it follows the 'Brauereienweg Aufseß' for its entire length. You'll also find it intersecting with parts of the 'Brauereien- und Bierkellertour', 'Fränkischer Gebirgsweg Teil 5', and the 'Fränkische Schweiz 3-Tage-Wanderung', among others.
What's an insider tip for making the most of this brewery trail?
To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, plan your hike to include stops at the family-run breweries along the way, such as the Reichold Brewery Inn or Kathi-Bräu Heckenhof. These establishments offer unique local brews and delicious Franconian specialties, providing a genuine taste of the region beyond just the hike itself. Don't rush; savor the experience!
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
The "Brauereienweg" can be walked as a circular route. We started in the small town of Hochstahl, from the parking lot of the inn and brewery "Reichold". The approx.13.5 km. long path leads through beautiful woodland, past idyllic green spaces and through small towns. All easy to walk paths, but in the direction of "Kathi - Bräu" it is a good bit uphill. There are a total of 4 breweries along the route, which most likely all brew very good beer. We would have liked to try them all. Our mistake: We started on a Tuesday. If you want to do that, you should provide yourself with enough drinks. Unfortunately, we only had the opportunity to get something to eat and drink at "Kathi - Bräu". The kitchen at the "Reichold" brewery was closed (beer would have been possible). 2 other breweries were closed on Tuesday.😟
A varied tour from brewery to brewery, well signposted as a brewery path. You can save yourself the "mess" in Aufseß; Here you can continue across from the highly recommended Röthenbach brewery restaurant, which not only brews various beers, but also produces soda and cola and has a good kitchen. If you turn a little to the right instead, there is a beautiful view of the palace complex from the bridge over the Aufseß. On the further way it goes uphill again before you stroll down from the Kathi-Bräu, which is closed from 6 p.m., the last 2 km down to Hochstahl.
Without many words: The beers are good !! 🍺 The well-signposted brewery path hike near Aufseß is easy to walk on good paths. Since the breweries are in the foreground, the (hiking) trail is not always the most beautiful for Franconian Switzerland standards, as it often goes on bike / footpaths along the asphalt road. However, there are also scenic pieces and we also made a detour to the Schweizerhaushöhle and Unteraufseß Castle. In the old post office in Aufseß there are also a lot of beautiful things (handicrafts, etc.) A pleasure hike all around 😋
It's all about enjoying 🥰🥰🥰. Stress-free through the Franconian beer world and restaurants with excellent food. The house beers? A DREAM 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Brewery hiking trail as an alternative program to the Schammelsdorfer Beer Days 😁😁😁
Like every year, I passed the brewery trail with a diploma. It's always nice to walk around Aufeß🍺💪😀
Such a beautiful day!!! A long-planned brewery hike with the family, finally made it. The Brewery Trail combines enjoyable hiking with Franconian beer culture. Discover regional breweries, idyllic landscapes, and welcoming beer gardens! We started in Aufseß. The first brewery inn, Stadler, had such good beer... two 🍺s went straight down our throats. Unfortunately, the second brewery inn we visited was only open from 3 p.m., so they only served beer from the vending machine 😩😤 Have some change ready! On to Heckenhof. Everything was there: delicious beer, equally good food, and fast service... wonderful. Now we're sitting at the Gasthof Rothenbach with 🍺s and delicious 😋 😋 😋 food. Definitely worth repeating.