The Hornfelsen is a popular vantage point with a magnificent view of Grenzach, Riehen and Basel as well as the Swiss Jura and the Burgundian Gate. It is located about five kilometres east of Basel and belongs to the village of Grenzach-Wyhlen. In former times, there was a fortification at the Hornfels rock face, but only a remnant of a rampart about 75 metres long and the remains of a ditch have survived. The Grenzacher Hornfelsen is also a former limestone quarry. Today, in the lower area, the southernmost vineyard slope of the Baden wine-growing region is located.
The Hornfelsen is part of the Grenzacher Buchswald nature reserve. It is home to a number of rare animal and plant species, such as the raven and the snowball maple. In the Horngraben forest reserve, the landscape is not used or maintained in any way. This is not the case with the nearby large pond at the foot of the slope and the adjacent unfertilised and matured lawn and older tree stands. Although used, however, these also provide valuable habitats, for example for various fungi. Several exciting and sometimes rare orchid species thrive in the sparse areas.
A path leads from the Hörnli cemetery to the Grenzacher Hornfelsen. From here, several hikes and walks are possible, for example to the St. Chrischona Rustelgraben, through the nature reserve or over the Dinkelberg.
The area is not wheelchair accessible.
Refreshments
At the Hornfelsen lookout point there is a refuge and a barbecue area with a picnic area. In Grenzach-Wyhlen there are also various restaurants and shopping facilities. For special occasions, we recommend the fine dining restaurant Eckert.
Other greenbelt sites in the vicinity
Further information
Here you will find further information from our partner regionatur.ch on the Hornfels and the municipality of Grenzach.
Barbecue / fireplace, By the water, Culture, Excursion with animals, Excursion with children, Hike (good footwear), Viewpoint, Walk
Bicycle, Car, Public transport
Barbecue / fireplace, Food must be brought along, Picnic area, Restaurant (special), Shopping facilities nearby
Amphibians, Birds, Cultural landscape / meadows, Fishes, Forest, Insects, Reptiles, Specific fauna, Waters, Wetland
Castle / Ruins, Historical site, Wine region
Buggies, Families, Groups (< 10 persons), Groups (> 10 persons), Hikers, Pets, School classes, Walkers
If you are arriving by car, we recommend parking your car on the De-Bary-Weg or at the Hörnli cemetery. Travellers by public transport can take the nearest stop "Grenzacherweg".
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