Weatherproof and keen to hike

Hike through the Rhön - 22 km on 26.10.2025

Early on Sunday morning, a large hiking group consisting of students, employees of Fulda University of Applied Sciences and hiking enthusiasts met at Fulda train station. After a brief check-in and a welcome with an explanation of the planned programme for the day, we boarded the regional train on time for Gersfeld, the starting point of our hike. The weather forecast promised changeable conditions: Temperatures around freezing point, gale-force winds in places and snowfall at higher altitudes. For this reason, the planned route was adjusted slightly on the spot.

We started our tour from Gersfeld. After a short introductory round and a little warm-up exercise, we set off in the cold, clear air towards Eube-Berg (820 m) and on to Guckaisee. Even on the first few kilometres, we got a taste of the weather - we were accompanied by strong gusts of wind and the first snowflakes. Many enjoyed the wintry landscape. We took a short break at the Guckaistube to shelter under the roof from the increasingly heavy snow.

After consulting with the group, we decided to climb directly to the Wasserkuppe and stop off at the Märchenwiesenhütte. The path managed to take us up to the radome, partly sheltered from the wind. Once at the top, we were treated to a real winter experience: the entire mountain was covered in a light layer of snow, while gusts of wind swept over the hills. Visibility was limited, but the mood in the group was excellent - everyone was in high spirits and well wrapped up.

We reached the Märchenwiesenhütte a little earlier than planned, where we were able to warm up and fortify ourselves with warm drinks and good food. The cosy seating area invited us to linger, and interesting conversations and a lively get-together quickly developed. The break was a little longer than planned - we laughed, chatted and even played two small board games in a relaxed atmosphere. Afterwards, the first group photo of the day was taken. A big thank you to the innkeeper for the friendly hospitality and accommodation!

Strengthened, we set off again towards Rotes Moor around midday. The sky cleared up a little and from the Wasserkuppe there was a brief view of the Rhön valley. On the descent, a Spanish Erasmus student created a good atmosphere with traditional songs - a lovely moment that re-energised the group. We took a short break for a drink at the viewpoint on the Red Moor and enjoyed the special atmosphere of the moorland landscape.

The last section managed us back through the Kaskadenschlucht gorge towards Gersfeld. Many participants enjoyed the tranquil nature with its small streams and autumn snow-covered paths. Despite the weather, everyone mastered the route safely and with great enjoyment. We reached the railway station in Gersfeld at around 4 p.m. and travelled back to Fulda together. We bid each other a fond farewell at Fulda railway station - full of wonderful impressions, fresh mountain air and good humour.

Hike through the Rhön - 32 km on 01.11.2025

The second hike of around 31.1 kilometres was also a complete success - all participants took part. The weather was warmer and drier this time. The hiking trails were autumnal and the views were wider this time. We arrived at the Märchenwiesenhütte on the Wasserkuppe at around 1.50 p.m. with a slight delay. After refreshments, we headed straight back to Gersfeld, where we arrived at around 5.00 pm. Everyone was proud to have successfully mastered the hike over this distance and clearly enjoyed the tour.

I wish all participants a great winter semester 2025/26 and look forward to seeing familiar faces and hearing new stories on future hikes.
 

Report and pictures: Nils Runkel