Donnersberg Mountain

Highest peak in Rhineland-Palatinate, volcanic hill

At about 687 metres, Donnersberg is Rhineland-Palatinate's highest peak; hikers come for its trails, panoramic hilltop views and Celtic-era archaeological remains.

Main image

Donnersberg at a Glance#

About Donnersberg#

Donnersberg is the highest mountain in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate in western Germany, rising to about 687 metres above sea level. It is the dominant feature of the North Palatine Uplands.

The summit and slopes include the site of a substantial late Iron Age hillfort and settlement associated with the Celtic La Tène culture, indicating long-term strategic use of the site. Over later centuries the area has been used for forestry, pasture and rural settlement.

Donnersberg sits in central Rhineland-Palatinate in the North Palatine Uplands, visible from nearby towns and villages; it lies within a rural landscape of forests and fields and is accessible by local roads and footpaths.

  • Elevation: At 687 metres elevation it is the highest point in Rhineland-Palatinate and a recognised local landmark for hiking and views.

What to See#

  • Summit: The summit area at 687 metres above sea level provides panoramic views across the North Palatine Uplands and is the focus for hiking and walking routes up the massif.
  • Celtic hillfort: Archaeological remains of a large late Iron Age hillfort and settlement complex dating to the Celtic La Tène period, with visible earthworks and terraces on the slopes.

Tips for Visiting Donnersberg#

  • Go on a clear day for the summit views - Donnersberg is the highest point in the Palatinate and visibility matters for the panoramic outlooks.
  • Use one of the well‑marked hiking routes from the surrounding villages and start early to avoid weekend walkers; the walking trails and summit viewpoints are the main reasons to go rather than a quick drive-by.

Best Time to Visit Donnersberg#

Best from late spring through early autumn when trails are clear and weather is most favorable for hiking.

Late spring to early autumn (best)
May-September · 5-25°C
Mild to warm days and generally snow-free trails make this the prime time for hiking Donnersberg and enjoying summit views.
Summer
June-August · 15-25°C
Warm and pleasant for extended hikes; expect the most day visitors at weekends.
Winter (snow possible)
December-February · -5-5°C
Cold with possible snow or ice on trails-good for experienced winter hikers but many paths may be slippery or closed.

Weather & Climate near Donnersberg#

Climate

Donnersberg's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -2°C to 21°C. Moderate rainfall (840 mm/year), distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.

Air Quality: AQI 33 Good
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
21°
Warmest Month
-3°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January - -3° - 2° -5° 65 mm - - 4.5 m/s - -
February - -2° - 3° -4° 59 mm - - 4.2 m/s - -
March - 0° - 7° 0° 63 mm - - 4.3 m/s - -
April - 3° - 11° 4° 58 mm - - 3.9 m/s - -
May - 7° - 16° 11° 81 mm - - 3.7 m/s - -
June - 10° - 18° 14° 76 mm - - 3.5 m/s - -
July - 12° - 21° 17° 81 mm - - 3.4 m/s - -
August - 12° - 21° 17° 61 mm - - 3.2 m/s - -
September - 9° - 16° 13° 66 mm - - 3.5 m/s - -
October - 5° - 11° 6° 76 mm - - 3.8 m/s - -
November - 1° - 5° -1° 74 mm - - 4.1 m/s - -
December - -1° - 3° -4° 80 mm - - 4.5 m/s - -