Breva-Weg & Moselsteig Circular Hike
The circular hike linking Bruttig-Fankel and Valwig stitches together two of the Moselle Valley's finest trails into one exhilarating day out — the celebrated Moselsteig long-distance path on the way up, and the themed Breva-Weg wine trail on the descent, with an optional via ferrata section for those who want a genuine adventure.
The route in brief
The trail climbs from Bruttig-Fankel through steep vineyards and forest to the heights above the Moselle, following the Moselsteig with its spectacular valley views. The Viewpoint 'Iron Mast' (Eiserner Mast) is a particular highlight along the ascent, offering a bird's-eye perspective over the river bends below.
The return leg follows the Breva-Weg, a themed trail loaded with information about local viticulture and the geology of the Moselle slopes. For those who want more, a via ferrata section adds a scrambling challenge before you drop back to the riverbank.
The gentler alternative
If the via ferrata feels like too much, the Moselle cycle path runs right along the riverbank and makes a flat, scenic alternative for the return leg — equally beautiful, just at a different pace.
The full circular route covers around 10 km with roughly 600 metres of elevation gain, making it a solid half-day hike. Autumn colours in October transform the vineyard sections into something genuinely spectacular.
Wildlife and wildflowers
The Moselle Valley around Bruttig-Fankel supports a mild microclimate that nurtures orchids on the south-facing vineyard terraces in May and June, while peregrine falcons nest on the rocky outcrops above the river. Roe deer are commonly spotted at dusk on the forest edges near the Valwigerberg.
The Biotope Pond on the Fohlbach and the nearby Bonertskump Pond and Gazebo make quiet detour spots for birdwatchers, particularly in spring when warblers fill the reed margins.
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