Whoohoo, I’m here in Hesse again — and quite glad to be in the town of Rabenau.
This is some seriously grand real estate, located between the Lahn Valley and the Vogelsberg, and on the banks of the Lumda River.
Of course there’s more to Rabenau than just its location, so you might want to stick around for a while — just like I had to.
The town of Rabenau itself is actually a handful of villages, each with their own individual flair. Each one also offers charming village churches to see, like the one in Geilshausen. It’s an old fortified church, with a 21 meter high tower above the countryside — and pretty stained glass.
Londorf’s church is known as the “Cathedral of Londorf;” but there’s definitely more to do here than just stopping by its church for a quick visit. At the end of August Londorf offers a “Car-free Sunday,” craft shops, food markets, and a castle garden with its own beer garden. Sweet!
As for beer, there’s plenty flowing at many of Rabenau’s festivals. I’ll try to do this in date order for you… May’s the time for the Backhausfest; followed by the 3-day Kirmes Wochenende in June; the Rabenauer Art Forum at the end of August; and the Kartoffelfest (Potato Festival) in early September. The Michaelismarkt takes place a week after the Potato Festival, so you might want to plan a visit to combine them both.
You’ll really feel lucky if you’ve managed to come for the Lichterfest at the Castle Park. Sorry folks, this August event takes place only on even-numbered years. Take solace in knowing at least the Christmas Market happens every year on the second weekend of Advent.
When peace & quiet are what you crave, Rabenau obliges. Follow along the Radwanderweg, 44km of serene Hessian countryside — or follow the Rabenauer Trail instead. Your choice, of course, but either one is a good choice.
How about horseback riding and wagon rides — better yet, take a donkey ride. I assure you, it’s a fun time to be had by all.
As for fun, my time is ending in Rabenau — but I still have time to take a bike ride on some of the town’s 45km of bike trails. Oh, look at that — sculptures are found along the way.
Ya see, I told you there was more to Rabenau than just its fantastic location. ;-)
