Natural monuments around Nackenheim showcase a charming wine-growing community on the western bank of the Rhine, surrounded by significant natural features. The area is characterized by its unique geological formations, such as the Roter Hang with its red clay slate, and protected riverine landscapes. These natural landmarks offer insights into ancient geological processes and provide crucial habitats for diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore a variety of natural settings, from vineyard-covered slopes to conservation islands in the Rhine.
Last updated: August 4, 2026
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REMEMBER INSTEAD OF FORGETTING IN MEMORY OF THE WOMEN AND MEN FROM FLÖRSHEIM, WEILBACH AND WICKER WHO WERE SENTENCED TO DEATH AS WITCHES AND SORCERERS AND WHO PERISHED IN THE YEARS 1595-1630 OR WERE DENOWNED, ARRESTED AND TORTURED AND HAD TO LEAVE THEIR HOMELAND AS PERSECUTED PEOPLE. THE INSCRIPTION OF THE CROSS AT THE FOOT OF THE “WITCHES’ MOUNTAIN” AS IT IS CALLED BY THE PEOPLE READS: IN 1750 GOD HAD THIS CROSS ERECTED IN HONOR BY JOHAN JACOB KOL AND ANNA GERDRUDA KOLIN, HIS HOUSEWIFE OF FLÖRSHEIM
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Zornheim is the perfect detour if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Mainz. Right at the beginning of the Hiwweltour Zornheimer Berg, the Ruhkreuz awaits with a real surprise. The Frankfurt skyline is very visible on a clear day and shows how close Rheinhessen is to the Rhein-Main area. If you prefer not to see any skyscrapers, just turn around and look at the renatured Selz and the endless Reebenmeer. It is not for nothing that the Ruhkreuz near Zornheim was voted the "Most Beautiful Wine View 2020" this year. Definitely plan a trip to the place. The Lindenplatz with the Three Graces fountain and the church is one of the most beautiful squares in Rheinhessen.
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Beautiful view from the Toad Fountain over the vines to Oppenheim.
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From the Ruhkreuz you can gaze far into the distance. You can see the Feldberg in the Taunus, the Frankfurt skyline, the Odenwald, the Donnersberg and the Hunsrück. The Rheinhessen flag also flies at this central vantage point.
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From the Ruhkreuz you can gaze far into the distance. You can see the Feldberg in the Taunus, the Frankfurt skyline, the Odenwald, the Donnersberg and the Hunsrück. The Rheinhessen flag also flies at this central vantage point. The Ruhkreuz was inaugurated on July 7th, 1918. The Catholic parish in Zornheim had it built. Some parishioners financed the project and the evangelical sculptor Stieb from Nieder-Olm made it. At the Ruhkreuz station was inserted in petition processions. A wayside cross must have stood on the site of the cross erected in 1918. The field name "Am Kreuz" for the vineyards to the south of the site is documented as early as the 18th century The vineyard location "An der Ruh" was decisive for the naming of the cross. This widespread field name describes a place on a path where loads could be set down on a stone for a short rest. Two stone blocks support a stone crossbeam, which is approximately at the level of the load carried on the back. Women from Hahnheim probably put their baskets here for a short rest when they went to the market in Mainz via Zornheim with their goods. There were such benches in many Rhenish-Hessian communities, often with a seat. Supposedly Napoleon donated these benches out of joy at the birth of his son; consequently one also speaks of "Napoleon's benches". The Ruhkreuz in Zornheim is an ideal starting point for hikes or to take a break and let your gaze wander. Source: zornheim.de/freizeit-kultur/sightseeing/ruhkreuz
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The wine-growing community of Zornheim is located in the Nierstein area of the Rheinhessen wine-growing region. "Good Domtal" is the Zornheimer Großlage, which includes the vineyards Mönchbäumchen, Pilgerweg, Dachgewann, Guldenmorgen and Vogelsang, where the vineyards of our winery are also located. http://weingut-schmitz.de/weingut/
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The Ruhkreuz was inaugurated on July 7th, 1918. The Catholic parish in Zornheim had it built. Some parishioners financed the project and the evangelical sculptor Stieb from Nieder-Olm made it. At the Ruhkreuz station was inserted in petition processions. A wayside cross must have stood on the site of the cross erected in 1918. The field name "Am Kreuz" for the vineyards to the south of the site is documented as early as the 18th century The vineyard location "An der Ruh" was decisive for the naming of the cross. Source: https://www.zornheim.de/freizeit-kultur/machen/ruhkreuz/
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Here you can find information about Landskron Castle: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Landskron_(Oppenheim)
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Nackenheim is renowned for its distinctive geological formations and riverine landscapes. You can explore the Roter Hang (Red Slope), a geological marvel with 280-million-year-old red clay slate, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Rhine. Additionally, the protected Rhine islands of Kisselwörth and Sändchen provide crucial habitats for diverse flora and fauna, and at low water levels, a 55-million-year-old volcanic vent is visible at Kisselwörth.
Yes, several natural monuments around Nackenheim are suitable for families. The Mainspitze and Main estuary, where the Main meets the Rhine, are popular spots with well-developed cycle paths and opportunities to watch river traffic. The Landskron Castle Ruins also offers family-friendly exploration with historical significance and scenic views.
The Nackenheim area offers a variety of hiking trails that allow you to experience its natural beauty. You can find routes that traverse the picturesque vineyards of the Roter Hang, offering stunning views. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Nackenheim, which includes routes like the 'Pettenthal Vineyard – Grüssende Michel Sculpture loop' for an easy walk.
Absolutely! The region is well-suited for cycling, especially along the Rhine Cycle Path which integrates with areas like the Roter Hang. The Mainspitze and Main estuary are also known for their excellent cycle paths, including the popular Main Cycle Path. For more cycling adventures, check out the gravel biking and MTB trails guides for Nackenheim.
Beyond purely natural formations, the Landskron Castle Ruins is a notable historical site that is also recognized as a natural monument. From its elevated position, you can enjoy expansive views over the Rhine plain. Another significant historical point is the Flörsheim Witch Trials Memorial Cross, a poignant monument commemorating victims of past witch hunts, located in an enchanted valley.
For stunning panoramic views, the vineyards of the Roter Hang are exceptional, especially at sunset. The Mainspitze and View of the confluence of the Main and the Rhine offer excellent vantage points to observe the meeting of the two rivers and the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Landskron Castle Ruins provides a wide vista over the Rhine plain, reaching Frankfurt and the Odenwald on clear days.
The Roter Hang is a geological marvel due to its distinct red soil, known as 'Rotliegendem.' This 280-million-year-old red clay slate, rich in iron compounds, was exposed by the collapse of the Rhine ditch. This unique formation creates an exceptional microclimate, particularly beneficial for viticulture, giving the wines a distinctive spicy, mineral character.
Yes, the Rhine islands of Kisselwörth and Sändchen, located directly off Nackenheim, are designated natural conservation areas. These islands are part of the 'Rheinauen' (Rhine Floodplains) Habitats Directive area, providing a crucial habitat for diverse flora and fauna within the Rhine ecosystem. While primarily conservation areas, Kisselwörth also features a DLRG station with a bathing beach.
The Nackenheim area offers beauty throughout the year. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and cycling through the vineyards of the Roter Hang, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors. Summer is perfect for enjoying the bathing beach at Kisselwörth island or observing river activity at the Mainspitze. Wine enthusiasts might enjoy visiting during annual wine presentations at the Roter Hang.
The protected Rhine islands of Kisselwörth and Sändchen are crucial habitats within the Rhine ecosystem, making them excellent spots for observing diverse flora and fauna. These conservation areas offer a serene environment to experience the natural riverside wildlife.
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The well-developed cycle paths around the Mainspitze and Main estuary are highly praised, as are the breathtaking views from the Landskron Castle Ruins. The geological marvel of the Roter Hang and its wine culture also draw significant interest.


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