You feel like you are in an adventure movie. The steep climbing path passes over slippery cliffs, loose shingle and even up a ladder high above the Lahn near Obernhof to get you to your first destination, the Goethepunkt. You heave upwards on the steel rope that guides your way through the trickier spots. Ahead of you, your companion turns around and looks down beyond you into the deep valley. “We’ll soon be there and then we can take a breather,” she says with a smile as she strides on up. You no longer need the guide rope, as the last few metres to the viewing platform are nice and gentle. You are quite proud that you managed the ascent so easily and pleased that the steepest section of the whole route is now behind you.
At Goethepunkt you have a great view of the surrounding region, Lahn valley
View from Goethepunkt on the 17th stage of the Lahnwanderweg, Lahn valley
Together, you climb the steps to the little plateau at the Goethepunkt, the geometric form of which represents a fascinating contrast to the unspoilt nature all around. It is still cool here in the early morning and the sun is low in the sky. You gaze entranced across the morning mist picked out in the morning sunshine as it wafts slowly across the Lahn valley. Your companion stretches out her arm and points out four towers you can just make out in the morning haze. They belong to the mighty Arnstein Abbey, towering proudly above the other side of the Lahn.
Descent from Goethepunkt back to the route of the Lahnwanderweg, Lahn valley
The Goethepunkt is the first viewpoint along today’s walk, the 17th stage of the Lahn Trail. The 20-kilometre section from Obernhof to Balduinstein also passes the Wolfslei, the Gabelstein and, right near the end, the Saukopp. As you take in the view, you look forward to more wonderful vistas over the Lahn valley, with its wooded slopes, historic buildings and pretty little villages on the water’s edge.
With a sigh, you drag yourself away from the view and climb the concrete steps back to the route. You continue along the narrow path that snakes through the forest and the rocky landscape, the sheer scale and beauty of which gives you goosebumps, and enjoy every moment of the day. It gradually gets warmer. You soak up the wonderful fragrances of the forest and experience nature in all its glory. You still have nearly 16 kilometres ahead of you, some of them pretty challenging. It is no mean feat, but it is one you are really looking forward to!
