Wild nature, unimaginable panoramic views, tranquillity and switching off distant from the stresses of on a regular basis life. That is attainable on the 156.8 km Rothaarsteig long-distance climbing path. From Brilon within the Sauerland area to Dillenburg in Hesse, the path winds its method alongside small paths by means of one of many largest forest areas in Europe. A spot to take a deep breath and arrive. To rediscover your self and dream. Along with Tatonka, I walked about 45 km on the long-distance path. Include me!
1st stage from Bruchhausen to the Hochheide hut in Niedersfeld
I pack all my necessities into the spacious Tatonka Pyrox 40+10 Girls, lace up my climbing boots, drive to the place to begin by automobile and begin the Rothaarsteig in Bruchhausen round noon. This time I go away the hanging Bruchhausen stones to the left and comply with the very well-marked path in the direction of Langenberg. As soon as I attain the best mountain (843 m above sea degree) in NRW, I let my thoughts wander. Meditate and breathe within the splendidly recent air. I sit within the hammock and recharge my batteries.
Following the crimson R markings, I arrive on the Hochheide hut in Niedersfeld shortly earlier than sundown. The view of the Sauerland mountains from right here is breathtaking! I stand there, having fun with this second of happiness and the sensation of freedom that rises up inside me. A crimson fireball sinks into the horizon and the hearty dinner on the hut replenishes all of the energy I’ve burned.
Mrs. Voss picks me up on the prime, takes me to her quaint guesthouse in Niedersfeld and I fall fortunately into mattress.
2nd stage from the Hochheide hut in Niedersfeld to Winterberg
The rain is pattering towards the window and the mountains are shrouded in fog. Time to take pleasure in a leisurely breakfast from Mrs. Voss after which begin the longest stage within the Hochheide.
Between the blooming heath and a detour on the Clemensberg, we head into the forest. Up the mountain, down the mountain.
At break time, I discover a typical Rothaarsteig hut and put my toes up.
Freshly fortified, I’ve my subsequent vacation spot in sight. The Ruhrqelle. A rain bathe is available in between. The way it smells! I like summer time rain! And due to the rain cowl, every part stays dry. My again too, however that’s due to the X-Vent Zero system, which permits air to flow into between my again and the backpack.
After a number of hours on the Rothaarsteig, we attain the small huts close to the supply of the Ruhr. Right here you’ll be able to see an exhibition on the “Forest as an financial space” and they’re fairly too. Just a few steps additional on is the supply of the Ruhr. A trickle of water trickles down right here. It’s unbelievable that the good Ruhr emerges from it.
However that basically was the final break for right this moment, as a result of Winterberg just isn’t distant!
Overjoyed, exhausted and really, very hungry, I arrive on the Resort Hessenhof within the night, the place I spherical off the day with a improbable dinner within the Stadtkern restaurant.
third stage Kahler Asten and Schanze round route
Silence, delicate gentle, a cool breeze. A smile crosses my face. With pleasure, with gratitude to be right here. On this panorama that radiates peace and tranquillity. Up right here at dawn on the Kahler Asten.
I simply wander round and benefit from the perfection and closeness to nature.
I’m again on the Resort Hessenhof in time for breakfast. And plan right this moment’s stage.
I drive to Schanze within the automobile I parked in Winterberg and set off on a path filled with sensory impressions. I move weird sculptures on the way in which to the spotlight of the tour, the suspension rope bridge in Kühhude. The shaky crossing at a top of 12 m is just a little journey and completely improbable!
After which I’m again in Schanze. With one final have a look at the crimson signal with the horizontal R, I say goodbye to the Rothaarsteig. 3 great days which have made me overlook all of the stress of on a regular basis life are coming to an finish! I drive residence grounded and blissful.
And what have I packed? This and a bit extra. However there may be a lot cupboard space within the Pyrox 40+10 Girls (or within the Unisex mannequin Pyrox 45+10), completely good, even for greater than 3 days! And for plenty of jam jar moments.
A bit of tip for all newcomers to multi-day hikes: don’t overlook your first support package and loads of water! And naturally an excellent dose of excellent humor!
Tip: In our tip “Lengthy-distance climbing trails in Germany“, we introduce you to extra long-distance climbing trails.