The Wittgensteiner Schieferpfad is a 14-kilometre circular hiking trail near Bad Berleburg that offers a mixture of nature and historical industrial culture. The route starts at the Raumland slate mine and leads through four nature reserves and numerous biotopes. Along the way, hikers pass impressive rocky landscapes, enchanted paths, huge slate heaps and former quarries that bear witness to the long tradition of slate mining in the region. A bat cave is also on the route, which is why it is marked by the symbol of a bat.
Special highlights, however, are the historical traces of slate mining. Some sections of the trail have an alpine character and require sure-footedness and sturdy footwear. However, the effort is rewarded with fantastic views of the Eder valley, Berleburg's old town and the slate village of Raumland.
The Wittgensteiner Schieferpfad stands out from other hiking trails thanks to its unique combination of geological features, cultural insights into slate mining and a wildly romantic natural backdrop.
