Rothaarsteig from the Lahn source to Wilgersdorf

The Rothaarsteig stage begins at the source of the Lahn and leads directly to the Ilse source, which is known not for its size but for its mysterious healing powers. The Ilse was considered a holy source especially in the Middle Ages and was a pilgrimage site for many years. Today you have the chance to enjoy the refreshing spring water on site.

From the Ilse source, the Rothaarsteig continues westward. Over the Jagdberg (674m), the path reaches the rest area "Kaffeebuche," from which you can enjoy a beautiful view over the landscape. In the valley below lies the village of Hainchen with the only elevated water castle in Westphalia. However, the Rothaarsteig remains on the ridge.

The next destination is again a source: The Dill is a 55-kilometer-long tributary of the Lahn and forms the natural border between the Hessian Westerwald and the Lahn-Dill hill country. After Haincher and Gernsbacher (523 m) follows ultimately the Tiefenrother height (551m). Here you can enjoy spectacular views and breathtaking sunsets from the viewing platform "Nose in the Wind." 

After a small quarry, you reach the (newly planted) Hubertus beech with a small rest area. Here you leave the Rothaarsteig and go down the access path to Wilgersdorf.