Sauerbrunnen and Petersquelle

A spa holiday in Oberhambach?
It may be hard to believe, but there used to be a fancy health resort right by the B 269 federal highway at the exit to Oberhambach. Princes and kings from all over Europe travelled to the Hunsrück for spa treatments.
In 2015, the spring was reopened to the public. An information area dedicated to all things around “water” was created. Well done! After all, Oberhambach water used to be shipped halfway around the world. Being very rich in iron, the water is said to have healing properties.
The “Around the magical forest” dream loop and the magical forest’s nature adventure trail are in the immediate vicinity – only about 100 m away. Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park is also right around the corner.
The Petersquelle before it was renovated
The Petersquelle today

The history of the Petersquelle
For more than 2,000 years, people have been drinking the water of the Sauerbrunnen and the Petersquelle, which is said to have special healing properties.
Excavations confirm that even the ancient Romans greatly appreciated these springs. Stones were found depicting gods classified as water or spring saints.
First written evidence of a health resort dates back to the 15th century. However, the resort was largely destroyed during the Thirty Years’ War.

argrave Charles Frederick of Baden finally took an interest in the springs again. In 1776, he gave the order to explore “this glorious gift of nature“, resulting in the construction of a health resort, which was completed in 1791. The building had three storeys as well as mansards for guests and their entourage. In addition, there were quarters for the keeper of the bath, a kitchen, a boiler room, a jug workshop (for water shipment), stables for 20 large animals, sheds for 8 carriages as well as an outdoor area including a poplar avenue, sprawling footpaths and a sundial.


he bath was operated under the administration of the castle in Birkenfeld.
Just one year later, in 1792, as a consequence of the French revolution the bath and health resort was shut down. In 1809, the entire facility was sold in a public auction following a decision by the French government. The health resort was demolished and the property was reclaimed by nature over the years.
In 2015, it was refurbished to allow visitors to learn about its past. Information boards provide insights into the location’s history while the modern playground equipment along the stream is sure to entertain children of all ages!