Höllenpfad Vineyard Hike

From the Höllenpfad to Wine Paradise

The Höllenpfad is a historic hiking trail between the Grünstadt and Sausenheim vineyards — its name has nothing to do with fear, but derives from the Palatinate word for a particularly steep section. Today, the path is the setting for one of the most charming Palatinate wine hikes: On six weekends a year — the main event takes place on the first weekend in June — vintners open stations along the circular route.

Eight Stations, Four Vineyards

The 5.5-kilometer circular route leads through four central vineyards: Grünstadter Bergel, Grünstadter Röth, Sausenheimer Hütt, and Sausenheimer Honigsack. At eight stations, the wineries offer their wines from the respective vineyards — a form of tasting that allows for direct comparison of the vineyards and provides an impression of the diversity of Grünstadt and Sausenheim wine culture.

Wine Pass and Shuttle Comfort

The concept is meticulously organized: The wine pass costs a fixed price (exact conditions are published by the city of Grünstadt) and includes eight tastings and a tasting glass. A shuttle bus runs between Grünstadt city center and the starting point of the hike — so visitors don't have to arrive by car, which is a significant advantage for a wine tasting hike.

Palatinate Summer Classic

For regular guests, the vineyard hike is a fixed date in the Palatinate gourmet calendar. The weekend at the beginning of June coincides with an ideal phase: the vines bear the fresh green of early summer, the days are warm but not yet hot, and the evenings are long. Those who have experienced the format once usually return the following year.