Höckerlinie Westwall

robinrocket (Atlas Obscura User)

The Höckerlinienweg is two things: an interesting walk of approximately one hour through nice landscapes and weird anti-tank barriers, but also a close-up view of Germany’s dark history.

Walking through the moss-covered barriers in the woods is a special experience. You can feel how soldiers were supposed to hide behind the lines, wait for attacks from France. The barriers are all in good condition and even some bunker ruins are accessible along the hike.

The Höckerlinie was originally part of the so called Westwall, a defense line between Germany and France. It was planned and built between 1936 and 1940 by the National Socialist regime. The wall is made up of more than 17,000 concrete bunkers, and a long span of armored barriers. The single barriers weigh up to nine tons and the wall is more than 700 meters long.

Know Before You Go

There is a clear hiking trail, so you won't get lost. There's also a small restaurant along the hike so you won't starve. And finally, it seems kids enjoy running around the barriers, and the hike is not hard at all