Easter at Kalmit

Easter Excursion

Even though fuel prices are currently very high, the three of us set off with a friend to the Palatinate Wine Route. Wine for gas - everyone involved agreed to that.

A hiking tip from the newspaper promised a cozy loop hike starting from Ilbesheim through the Palatinate 'Hills'; no significant ascents, as the SMALL KALMIT doesn't rise very high above the village. Most of the vines along the path had recently been trimmed, although some rows had become overgrown. There were still dried grapes hanging, which the birds apparently were not interested in.

The hike was only about five kilometers long, well signposted as 'Rebenmeerweg 5' and was also used by cyclists. Besides us, several families and groups of different ages were out and about - some with picnics. There was a significant cold wind in addition to the sunshine, especially up at the chapel on the Little Kalmit.

Some winemakers had hung up signs with explanations about the respective grape varieties cultivated, sometimes with recommendations for suitable dishes - less frequently the types of wine, but often with a reference to the respective owner of the vines.

After about two hours, we headed back down to the village, passing the Kalmit vineyard at the end. Here, they show how wine cultivation has developed over time. In ancient times, the vines only grew to ankle height, and over the centuries, they grew taller, received supports to which they were tied, and continue to do so. Very interesting and very educational.

At the end of the path, we went through a gate where a monkey swings. The residents of Ilbesheim were formerly called 'monkeys' in the area and have erected a monument to this nickname.

Back in the village, the numerous beautiful half-timbered houses impressed us. Many of them still house old wine cellars, some now serve as inns or holiday apartments.

We decided to visit the HOFGARTEN ROSA. Here, the arrangement of wine for petrol was fulfilled. With the large menu, I really could hardly decide and chose 'the number 2 from the top', which greatly amused the innkeeper. He had never had such an order before.
Later, other tasting samples were added, also from wines that we had previously walked past their vines.

The stay in the Immenhof was very pleasant. Sheltered from the wind and sunny. This way, we could let the day beautifully come to an end.

See you soon!