Karlstein

Karlstein is a mountain summit near Hornberg reaching approximately 969 meters high and featuring prominent granite rock formations. It sits in the Niederwasser area and is crossed by the Westweg hiking trail that passes through the region.

Until 1805, this summit marked a four-country corner where the borders of Baden, Württemberg, Fürstenberg, and Vorderösterreich converged. After that year, territorial changes eliminated this unique meeting point of four boundaries.

The mountain was previously called Hauenstein and took its current name after Duke Carl Eugen of Württemberg visited its peak in 1770. The name still serves as a reminder of this royal visit today.

The summit is accessible via hiking trails and works well for trekking along the Westweg route. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions since mountaintops become exposed quickly.

The summit provides views in three cardinal directions - east, north, and south - and serves as a key landmark along the Westweg trail. This strategic location made it historically important and gives it special significance for hikers navigating the Black Forest region.