Green valleys, wooded mountain ranges and numerous reservoirs - the Sauerland Rothaargebirge Nature Park consists of the Sauerland, Siegerland, Wittgensteiner Land and Medebacher Bucht cultural landscapes and is home to unique natural wonders. Speaking of natural wonders. Did you know that the Bruchhauser Steine in Olsberg were NRW's first national natural monument? Formed millions of years ago by volcanoes, erosion and folding of the earth's layers, the rocks, which are up to 92 meters high, are now a fascinating excursion destination, and not just for fans of geological history. A beaten staircase leads up to the summit cross. To the highest point. Here you have a breathtaking view over the region.
Excellent hiking
Typical, unique and attractive - these are the Top Trails of Germany. The most beautiful and exciting long-distance hiking trails in Germany. One of them is the Rothaarsteig, the "Trail of the Senses". It leads through the Sauerland Rothaargebirge Nature Park and is characterized by natural paths and trails. A special section of the Rothaarsteig is the Kyrill Trail, which is around one kilometer long. Footbridges and stepladders take you past uprooted and fallen trees that bring the natural force of the severe hurricane "Kyrill" to life.
Fancy a flight of fancy? If you want to hike to the highest peaks and enjoy the most beautiful views of the valleys in the Sauerland, you should definitely take the Sauerland Höhenflug. A highlight along the way: Germany's most beautiful hilltop castle - Altena Castle. It towers over the town of the same name. An adventure elevator takes you 90 meters into the mountain and 80 meters to the top. Seven gates, captivating stories and legendary figures bring the castle and the region to life.
Forests & bison
The Wittgenstein forests are home to the only free-living herd of bison in Central Europe. With a bit of luck, hikers may come across the gentle giants in the wild. To make sure you get to see these impressive animals up close, you should pay a visit to Wisent-Welt-Wittgenstein. A small herd of bison lives here on 20 fenced-in hectares. Fancy an adventure? Climb over tree trunks and rocks, crawl through a "badger burrow" and cross streams - the three-kilometre-long bison trail takes you right through the enclosure.
Paths through old forest stands, past impressive natural monuments, wild animals, old legends and tales, mysterious places - you can discover all of this on a hike along the Sauerland Forest Route. Whether as a single stage, a multi-day tour or on circular hikes - the quality trail promises magical and mystical experiences.
Shopping right next door
So much nature and being outdoors makes you hungry. The best way to satisfy your hunger is to buy regional produce locally. The shopping guide "Shopping right next door" provides an overview of regional suppliers with delicacies from the nature park who value sustainability, freshness and their homeland. Produce high-quality products and trade ecologically and fairly. For fair shopping, directly on site.
