Dense forests, gentle mountain ranges and sweeping panoramas - the Sauerland is the "land of 1000 mountains" for good reason. Varied landscapes, idyllic places and hiking trails for every taste await you here. Whether it's a sporty tour on a long-distance hiking trail, a relaxed walk with your dog or an adventure with the kids.
In this article, you will find out why the Sauerland is a genuine Wanderbares Deutschland quality region, which long-distance hiking trails are particularly worthwhile, where you can find the most beautiful tours around Winterberg, Willingen or Brilon - and which insider tips will surprise you off the beaten track.
Table of contents
Why is the Sauerland a paradise for hikers?
Which long-distance hiking trails in the Sauerland should you know?
Beautiful hikes around Winterberg and Willingen - which tours are worthwhile?
Brilon, Diemelsee and the Hochsauerland - where can you find the best circular hiking trails?
What makes hiking with dogs and children in the Sauerland so special?
What special themed trails and insider tips does the Sauerland offer?
Conclusion
Why is the Sauerland a paradise for hikers?
When you hike through the Sauerland, you quickly realize why the region has been awarded the title of Quality Region Hikeable Germany. Over 1000 mountains, well-maintained trails, charming villages and a landscape that is constantly changing - from deep green forests to wide meadows and tranquil lakes.
The Sauerland hiking paradise is perfectly organized: The signposting is exemplary, there are tours for every level and there are refreshment stops everywhere where you can fortify yourself after a long tour. And best of all, nature really is right on your doorstep here - without overcrowded paths or crowds.
If you want to get an overview, it's worth taking a look at the interactive map from Kompass - Wandern im Sauerland. There you will find a variety of tour suggestions - from easy after-work tours to challenging summit tours.
Which long-distance hiking trails in the Sauerland should you know?
If you enjoy hiking for several days at a time, you will love the long-distance hiking trails in the Sauerland. They take you through the most beautiful landscapes, connect small towns and let you experience the Sauerland in all its diversity.
The Rothaarsteig - the classic
The most famous long-distance hiking trail is the Rothaarsteig, which runs for around 154 kilometers from Brilon to Dillenburg. It is nicknamed the "path of the senses" - and rightly so. Here, the forest smells of spruce resin, you can hear the rustling of the leaves and the views over the "Land of 1000 Mountains" open up again and again on the ridges.
The individual stages are varied: sometimes you hike on narrow paths through quiet valleys, sometimes over open heights with sweeping views. The Bruchhauser Steine, the source of the Lahn and the Rhine-Weser Tower are particularly impressive.
👉 If you are planning the Rothaarsteig, be sure to take a look at our trekking packing list. You'll be well equipped.
The Uplandsteig - a real insider tip
The Uplandsteig near Willingen is slightly shorter, but no less attractive. It circles the region for around 64 kilometers and takes you over wide heights, through deep forests and past clear streams. If you like, you can hike it in several stages and stay overnight in one of the many guesthouses along the way.
If you are preparing for a longer tour, it is also worth taking a look at our guide to training for hiking. This will ensure you are physically fit for any adventure.
Beautiful hikes around Winterberg and Willingen - which tours are worthwhile?
The most famous hiking destinations in the Sauerland are Winterberg and Willingen - and both offer spectacular views.
In Winterberg, you should definitely climb the Kahler Asten, one of the highest mountains in the Sauerland. From here, you can see far into the Rothaargebirge on a clear day. The ascent is particularly beautiful in the early morning, when the sun slowly rises over the hills.
There are also countless beautiful hikes around Willingen. The ascent to the Ettelsberg with its striking Hochheideturm tower is a must - once at the top, a 360-degree panorama of forests, valleys and villages awaits.
Tip: If you are breaking in new shoes, be sure to read the article on preventing blisters when hiking beforehand. Your feet will thank you for it.
Brilon, Diemelsee and the Hochsauerland - where can you find the best circular hiking trails?
If you prefer to go on a circular tour instead of planning stages, you will find perfect conditions in Hochsauerland.
Brilon, the starting point of the Rothaarsteig, is a great starting point for numerous circular hiking trails. The Kyrill Trail is particularly well-known - a nature experience trail that shows how the forest recovered after the storm of 2007.
The area around Lake Diemelsee is idyllic: the water glistens between gentle hills and the circular trails always offer great views of the lake. The paths are easy to walk on and are also suitable for families or leisurely half-day hikes.
Throughout Hochsauerland, you will find a variety of routes - from easy walking trails to challenging high-altitude routes. Here you can slow down wonderfully without sacrificing comfort.
What makes hiking with a dog and child in the Sauerland so special?
The Sauerland is perfect for adventurers of all ages.
There are many trails for families that are both exciting and suitable for children: short routes with play and learning stations, nature trails through the forest or themed trails where children can playfully discover new things. You can find inspiration in our article Hiking with children.
Dogs are also welcome companions in the Sauerland. Many hiking trails lead through forests or along streams - ideal if your four-legged friend wants to cool off along the way. In the Sauerland hiking villages, you will also find numerous accommodations that are dog-friendly and located directly on beautiful routes. The mixture of nature, tranquillity and idyllic atmosphere ensures that both humans and animals feel equally at home.
What special themed trails and insider tips does the Sauerland offer?
In addition to the well-known classics, there are also many trails in the Sauerland that not everyone knows - and that's exactly what makes them so special.
The Sauerland Seelenorte are a real highlight. These are spiritual places that impress with their silence and energy - perfect if you want to pause and switch off while hiking.
If you love art, you should explore the forest sculpture trail between Bad Berleburg and Schmallenberg. Here, nature and art come together in a unique way - a real insider tip for anyone who likes to walk through the landscape with their eyes wide open.
And then there are the Bruchhauser Steine, striking rocks with breathtaking views, or the Schmallenberg region, which is perfect for explorers with its varied paths, waterfalls and quiet trails.
Get a quick overview here:
| Highlight | Special feature | Tip for you |
|---|---|---|
| Sauerland places of the soul | Spiritual places in the midst of nature | Ideal for switching off and taking a deep breath |
| Forest sculpture trail | Art meets nature | Don't forget your camera! |
| Bruchhauser Stones | Impressive rock formations | Sturdy footwear is a must |
| Schmallenberg | Varied & versatile | Tip: Get information on site |
| Hidden waterfalls | Small natural spectacles | Especially beautiful after rain |
You can find more inspiration under: Hiking on Lake Diemelsee.
Conclusion
The Sauerland is a real Eldorado for hiking fans - varied, pristine and incredibly diverse. As a Wanderbares Deutschland quality region, it offers everything you could wish for: perfectly marked trails, fantastic views and plenty of places where you just want to stop and take a deep breath.
Whether you're out and about on the legendary Rothaarsteig trail, taking a leisurely stroll around the Diemelsee lake or exploring the Sauerland Seelenorte - you'll find your personal favorite tour in the Sauerland at any time of year.
You don't just hike here - you experience nature, history and tranquillity at every turn. 🌲
