About Us
Welcome to the Forsthaus Heiligkreuz – a place where tradition, nature and honest German cuisine have been at home for many years.
Located in the heart of the beautiful Binger Forest, our house stands for hospitality, enjoyment and special moments in a unique atmosphere.
The forester's lodge has held special significance in the region since 1865. What once served as a residence for the forester and his family has evolved over the decades into a popular forest inn and a meeting place for hikers, families, gourmets, and lovers of regional cuisine.
Today we combine traditional values with modern gastronomy. Our aim is to offer our guests high-quality food, warm service and an atmosphere where they feel welcome from the very first moment.
Our story
The Heiligkreuz forester's lodge is more than just a restaurant – it's a piece of regional history. For generations, people have come here to enjoy the tranquility of the forest, good food, and time spent together.
Following its reopening in 2017, the house was passionately developed and modernized without losing its original charm. To this day, the Forsthaus remains a place where tradition and modernity blend harmoniously.
Our guests particularly appreciate the combination of a cozy atmosphere, regional cuisine, and the unique location amidst nature. Whether after a hike, for a family meal, a wedding, or a company celebration – the Forsthaus Heiligkreuz provides the perfect setting for special experiences.
About the restaurateur
Maximilian Engler
I am Maximilian Engler, born in Darmstadt and firmly rooted in Eltville since my sixth year of life.
Since 2019 I have been living my passion for gastronomy and have set myself the goal of bringing real German cuisine to the plate in a contemporary way and with heart.
With Engler's Restaurant in Ingelheim and the Forsthaus Heiligkreuz in Bingen, I run two establishments where quality, craftsmanship and hospitality are the focus.
I want to preserve traditions without stagnating – and show that German cuisine can be vibrant, diverse and modern.
Every day I work to strengthen German gastronomy culture and inspire people with honest enjoyment.
For me, quality, regionality, and personality come first. Because good food isn't just about taste – it's also about passion, atmosphere, and the feeling of being welcome.
Our kitchen
Our cuisine combines classic German specialties with modern influences and high-quality regional ingredients.
Fresh produce, honest craftsmanship, and seasonal dishes are especially important to us. Many ingredients come directly from the region – including fresh game from the Bingen Forest, regional meat products, and select wines from local vintners.
From crispy schnitzels to homemade cheese spaetzle, seasonal specialties and modern interpretations of traditional dishes – every guest will find something special with us.
Vegetarian and seasonal options are also a natural part of our cuisine. Our goal is to present traditional German cuisine in a modern, varied, and high-quality way.
Restaurant Guru Certificate 2022
We are proud to have been awarded the Restaurant Guru Certificate 2022.
This award is based on the reviews and experiences of our guests and confirms our daily commitment to quality, service and hospitality.
You can view the certificate here:
The positive feedback from our guests motivates us every day to give our best and to further develop the Forsthaus Heiligkreuz.
The Forsthaus Heiligkreuz stands for genuine hospitality, traditional cuisine and modern quality.
We want to create a place where people can come together, enjoy themselves and create beautiful memories – whether it's a cozy dinner, a family celebration or a relaxing afternoon in nature.
Preserving traditions, venturing into new territory while always remaining authentic – that's what we stand for.