Kurwaldbahn - cable railway

From Monday, October 19, 2026 to and including Friday, December 4, 2026 the operation of the Kurwaldbahn will be suspended due to maintenance work.

During the closure, a replacement transportation service will be available, which will operate according to schedule between the valley and mountain stations. Departure times can be found on the separate notices at the stations and at www.kurwaldbahn.de.

The two cabins of the funicular railway connect the city center with the spa area on Bismarckhöhe in shuttle service. With a maximum speed of 4 m/s, a difference in altitude of 132 m is overcome over a distance of 220 m. With this 78 percent gradient, the Kurwaldbahn ranks among the steepest funiculars in the world! From the top, there is an impressive view of the spa town and the Lahn Valley.

More than 150 meters separate the two spa areas on Bismarckhöhe and in the historic valley location. Those wishing to bridge the elevation difference in the shortest possible way can take the Kurwaldbahn.

Up to 20 people are transported in each of the two cabins of this ecological means of transportation. They meet halfway up the steep slope. The exact height difference of 132 meters between the mountain and valley stations is covered by the red cabins in less than two minutes, at seven-minute intervals.

Located at the mountain station is the panoramic restaurant Bismack's. Beautiful walks and hikes can also be undertaken from here. For example, the premium trail HöhenLuft starts right at the mountain station. A hiking board shows which way to go.

Bicycles cannot be transported for safety reasons.