Kletterführer Rhein-Main-Gebiet

Overview

Kletterführer Rhein-Main-Gebiet is an authoritative, characterful survey of the crags orbiting Frankfurt—an area better known for vineyards and river bends than for rock climbing. Christoph Deinet captures that surprise well: from the friendly quartzite of the Morgenbachtal to the stark adventure lines on the Rotenfels (Germany’s highest non‑Alpine cliff, around 180 m), the guide balances pleasure climbing with genuine seriousness. Historic notes and a sense of local culture run through the book, giving it more personality than a mere route list.

Coverage and structure

The guide is organized by subregions with clear sectioning and a quick “Felsregister” index:

• Hunsrück & Rheintal: Morgenbachtal, Nikolausfels, Trollfelsen, Rotenfels, Kirner Dolomiten.
• Taunus: Grauer Stein, Altenstein, Lorsbacher Wand, Eschbacher Klippen, Cratzenbach.
• Lahn/Taunus/Westerwald: Burg Hohlenfels, Hohe Lay, Fuchslay, Katzensteine, Konradfels.
• Spessart: Bessenbach, Oberbessenbach, Stadtprozelten.
• Bouldering: Winterstein plus urban “buildering” at Frankfurt’s Mainkai.

Each crag entry typically includes coordinates, orientation, wall height, protection style, grade spread, approach, and a clean photo‑topo. Sidebars fold in natural history and access sensitivities (e.g., bat habitat), while early chapters explain protection realities (“Sicherungssituation”), fixed gear, ethics, and conservation.

On‑the‑rock usability

For climbers, this guide succeeds where it matters:

• Topos: precise linework and numbering, with legible legends and route comments that highlight cruxes, runouts, and trad opportunities.
• Grades and variety: an unusually rich supply of easier to mid‑grade lines (ideal for courses at Morgenbachtal and the Kirner Dolomiten), yet enough stern tests at venues like Lorsbacher Wand to keep strong locals honest.
• Safety: candid warnings for chossy or sparsely bolted adventure venues (Rotenfels, Trollfelsen) help readers choose objectives appropriately.
• Extras: a time‑limited code for the Vertical‑Life app is included, useful for digital topos and updates.

Who it’s for

• Beginners and instructors seeking reliable, well‑protected mileage.
• Trad‑curious climbers wanting crack and corner practice.
• Experienced parties after long, serious, or less‑traveled outings.

Verdict

Thoughtfully written, visually clear, and grounded in local knowledge, this is the Rhein‑Main climber’s definitive companion. Its blend of beginner‑friendly sectors, honest adventure terrain, and practical safety guidance makes it easy to recommend for both residents and visitors planning multiple days across Hunsrück, Taunus, Westerwald, and the Spessart.

Details

Weight

700g

Pages

424

Publisher

Panico Alpinverlag