The Waterfalls–Three Churches circular hike connects three special places above Barbian: the impressive Barbian Waterfalls, the architecturally distinctive Briol and the historic Three Churches ensemble.
This varied hike follows steep woodland trails, old stone-paved paths and routes through meadows and the quiet rural landscape. The climb between the waterfalls and the Katzenleiter section require sure-footedness and sturdy hiking boots. Refreshment stops are available in Briol and at Three Churches.
The circular hike begins in the village centre of Barbian. From there, follow the signposted Waterfall Trail to the Lower Barbian Waterfall. Continue uphill along the steep, stepped path to the Upper Waterfall.
From the Upper Waterfall, follow trail no. 34 uphill. The route passes the Katzenleiter and continues through the woodland near Kasserol to Stangen. This section partly follows narrow and rocky paths and requires sure-footedness.
At Stangen, change to trail no. 27 and descend through woodland and meadows to Briol. The architecturally distinctive Gasthof Briol provides a pleasant refreshment stop.
From Briol, follow trail no. 4 to Three Churches. Further refreshment stops are available at Gasthof Bad Dreikirchen and Messnerhof near the historic churches.
For the return journey, initially follow the woodland path marked no. 6 towards Schlernbank. Then change to trail no. 3 and return to the village centre of Barbian via Feistegg.
Trail conditions:
The route follows paved sections, woodland and meadow paths, old stone-paved tracks and steep mountain trails, some of which have steps. The section between the waterfalls and the climb via the Katzenleiter require sturdy hiking boots and sure-footedness. Rocks, wooden steps, roots and stone slabs may become very slippery when wet.
Starting and finishing point: village centre of Barbian, approx. 832 m
Distance: approx. 8.8 km
Walking time: approx. 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding longer breaks
Ascent: approx. 565 m
Descent: approx. 565 m
Highest point: approx. 1,353 m
Difficulty: moderate
Trail numbers: Waterfall Trail, 34, 27, 4, 6 and 3
Refreshment stops: restaurants in Barbian, Gasthof Briol, Gasthof Bad Dreikirchen and Messnerhof
Suitable for pushchairs: no
