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Salutations Adventurers! Embrace Schmallenberg, a captivating spot within Germany.
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque German countryside, Schmallenberg offers a bounty of activities ranging from quaint to thrilling, ensuring that visitors of all ages will leave with cherished memories as beautiful as the surrounding landscape.
Schmallenberg, a picturesque tourist destination in Germany, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and skiing.
Just like meissen is renowned for its famous porcelain, Schmallenberg is also home to numerous pottery workshops and artisans who create exquisite ceramic products.
On a somber note, while Schmallenberg offers a serene getaway, it stands in stark contrast to dachau, the infamous concentration camp, as a reminder of the dark history of Nazi Germany.
1. Winterberg Ski Resort
Winterberg Ski Resort is a popular ski vacation destination located in Schmallenberg, Germany.
It is one of the largest ski resorts in the country and offers a variety of winter sports activities.
What to see or do: Skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions here, with over 20 ski slopes of varying difficulty levels.
In addition, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, ice-skating, and tobogganing.
The resort also has a ski school for those who want to learn or improve their skiing skills.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try snow tubing, an exhilarating activity where visitors slide down a slope on an inflatable tube.
The resort also has a fun park with rails, boxes, and jumps that snowboarders can try out.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, visit Winterberg Ski Resort during the week as weekends tend to be busier.
Also, check the weather conditions before heading out to the slopes and dress appropriately.
Don’t forget to try the local cuisine, such as schnitzel and glühwein, to warm up after a day on the mountain.
2. Kahler Asten
Kahler Asten is the second highest peak in the Rothaargebirge mountain range in Germany.
What to see or do: Enjoy stunning panoramic views from the observation tower, hike one of the many trails or bike through the beautiful forest.
In winter, there are also skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the observation tower for breathtaking views and the Kahler Asten plateau, where you can take a stroll along the many walking routes.
Insider travel tips: Visit during off-peak hours or on weekdays to avoid crowds, and be sure to dress appropriately for the weather as it can be significantly cooler at the top of the mountain.
If you’re visiting in winter, check snow conditions and skiing options beforehand.
3. Rothaarsteig Trail
Rothaarsteig Trail is a beautiful hiking trail that runs for 154 kilometers in the beautiful Sauerland region of Germany.
What to see or do: Hike through lush forests and scenic valleys, and take in breathtaking views of the countryside along the way.
The trail is divided into 16 different stages, so you can choose to do the whole thing or just a portion of it.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the Kahler Asten, the region’s second-highest peak, which stands at 841 meters.
You’ll also want to visit the Bruchhauser Steine, which are unique rock formations that are over 400 million years old.
Insider travel tips: Pack sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the trail can be steep and rocky in places.
There are plenty of accommodations along the way, so plan your route and book lodging in advance.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views!
4. Schlossberg Schmallenberg
A medieval castle ruin located in the town of Schmallenberg in Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle ruins and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.There are also hiking and walking trails nearby.
Don’t miss: The castle’s well-preserved gate tower, which visitors can climb to the top for even better views.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes as the castle is located on a hill and requires some climbing.
Consider visiting during the warmer months when the castle hosts outdoor events and festivals.
5. Center Parcs Sauerland
Center Parcs Sauerland is a holiday resort located in Schmallenberg, Germany, amidst the picturesque setting of the Hochsauerland forest.
What to see or do: There is plenty to see and do at Center Parcs Sauerland, including indoor and outdoor activities for all ages.
Take a dip in the swimming pool, enjoy a game of mini-golf, go bowling or explore the nearby nature reserves.
Guests can also book spa treatments or relax in the sauna.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to go on a bike ride through the forest or take a guided hike to explore the surrounding nature.
The resort also has an indoor climbing wall and a high ropes course for the more adventurous guests.
Insider travel tips: • Book activities in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak season.
6. Panorama Park Sauerland wildlife park
Panorama Park Sauerland is a wildlife park located in the beautiful town of Schmallenberg in Germany.
The park comprises an area of 80 hectares and is home to a wide variety of animals and birds.
What to see or do: Visitors to the Panorama Park can take a leisurely stroll along the well-marked walking trails and observe the animals roaming in their natural habitats.
The park is home to over 300 animals from across the globe, including wolves, lynx, deer, wild boars, monkeys, and birds of prey.
The park also has several play areas for children, including a big adventure playground, water playground, and toboggan run.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the daily animal shows where trained handlers showcase the abilities of birds of prey such as eagles and owls.
Insider travel tips: • Wear comfortable shoes as the park has several walking trails that can take up to 4 hours to complete.
7. Bödefeld Hunau Ski Resort
Bödefeld Hunau Ski Resort is a popular ski destination located in Schmallenberg, Germany, offering a wide variety of winter sports activities for all ages and skill levels.
What to see or do: – Enjoy skiing or snowboarding on the resort’s 16 well-maintained slopes catering to different skill levels.
Don’t miss: – The resort’s annual Christmas Market, held in the village of Bödefeld, featuring local vendors and traditional festive foods and drinks.
Insider travel tips: – Consider visiting the resort mid-week for shorter lift wait times and fewer crowds.
8. Hennetal Schmallenberg
Hennetal is a picturesque valley located in the town of Schmallenberg in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the Hennetal hiking trail that winds through the verdant valley, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
Enjoy the serene ambiance and take in the panoramic views of the lush-green meadows and dense forests.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the quaint village of Lenneplätze located in the valley, which offers a unique glimpse into the traditional rural lifestyle of the region.
Also, keep an eye out for the Hennesee Lake situated at the end of the valley, which boasts crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings.
Insider travel tips: Pack some snacks and refreshments to enjoy along the hike as there are limited food options available in the area.
If you’re planning to visit during winters, make sure to carry appropriate gear and clothing as the region receives heavy snowfall at times.
Additionally, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas of the valley.
9. Wisent wild park
A wildlife park in Schmallenberg, Germany, dedicated to the preservation and protection of the European bison, also known as the wisent.
What to see or do: Observe the majestic wisents roaming freely in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and habitat.
There are also other animals on site such as red deer, wolves, wild boars, and lynx.
The park offers guided tours, feeding shows, and educational exhibitions.
Don’t miss: The chance to witness the bison up close during feeding time, typically around noon.
The park also offers interactive exhibits where visitors can touch and feel bison fur and antlers.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit for the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds during midday.
10. Priesterweg Schmallenberg
Priesterweg Schmallenberg is a scenic walking trail located in the Sauerland region of Germany.
What to see or do: This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and takes visitors through lush forests and quaint rural towns.
Along the way, hikers will pass by several historic landmarks and idyllic farms.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stop at the historic Marienkapelle (Mary’s chapel) which dates back to the 13th century.
The chapel is known for its distinctive blue tower and beautifully preserved frescoes.
Insider travel tips: Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery along the trail.Plan for a picnic and enjoy the sunshine at one of the scenic spots.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry a bottle of water as the trail can be strenuous at some points.
Finally, try the traditional Sauerland bread at one of the local bakeries along the trail – it is a local speciality that is not to be missed.
11. Kyrill-Pfad Hochsauerland hiking trail
Kyrill-Pfad Hochsauerland is a hiking trail in Schmallenberg, Germany that showcases the effects of a devastating storm called Kyrill that hit Germany in 2007.
What to see or do: Hikers can explore the beautiful forests and witness the impact of the storm on the landscape.
The trail has various educational stations that provide information about the storm, its aftermath, and the forest’s regeneration process.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the trail is the 40-meter-high observation tower that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding forest and the town of Schmallenberg.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable hiking boots and enough water as the trail can be challenging in some parts.
Also, consider taking a guided tour to get an in-depth understanding of the forest’s regeneration process after Kyrill’s devastating impact.
Finally, plan your visit during the autumn months to witness the beautiful changing colors of the forest trees.
12. Grafschafter Krautermacher herb garden
Grafschafter Krautermacher is a herb garden located in Schmallenberg, Germany.
It offers a wide variety of freshly grown herbs and plants for culinary and medicinal purposes.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the herb garden and admire the different species of herbs and plants.
The garden boasts over 500 different types of herbs, including rosemary, lavender, thyme, basil, and many more.
In addition to the lovely scenery, visitors can purchase herbs and plants to take home and enjoy.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the garden’s gift shop, which features a variety of herbal products, including teas, oils, and soaps.
You may also want to stop by the garden’s restaurant, where all of the dishes are made with fresh herbs from the garden.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the herb garden is during the summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.
13. Schmallenberger Brauhaus brewery
A traditional German brewery located in the town of Schmallenberg.
What to see or do: Take a brewery tour, learn about the brewing process and sample the delicious beer.
Don’t miss: Trying the famous Schmallenberger Pils beer, made with four types of hops and brewed according to a traditional recipe.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to also try the brewery’s other beers, including the dark and flavorful Schmallenberger Dunkel.
Take a seat in the cozy indoor seating area or enjoy your beer outside in the beautiful beer garden.
Reservations for the brewery tour are recommended.
14. Altes- & Heimatmuseum Schmallenberg
Altes- & Heimatmuseum Schmallenberg is a local history museum located in Schmallenberg, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits and displays that showcase the history and culture of the region, including clothing, household items, and farming tools.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the section dedicated to the Schmallenberger pigeon breed, which has been bred in the area for over 100 years.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions or events that may be happening during your visit.
15. Bruchhauser Steine rock formations
Bruchhauser Steine are a set of unique rock formations located in Schmallenberg, Germany.
What to see or do: Hike up to the top for a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
There are several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels to choose from, and visitors can also explore the nearby caves.
Don’t miss: The towering rock formations themselves are the main attraction and are truly a sight to behold.
Be sure to bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and bring plenty of water.Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and bring a picnic to enjoy at the top.
There is a small fee for parking, but the hike itself is free.