Holiday in Sauerland

What makes Sauerland special as a destination?

The Sauerland, often referred to as the land of a thousand mountains, extends in southeastern North Rhine-Westphalia and is the largest contiguous low mountain range recreation area north of the Main. Dense beech forests, deep valleys, clear reservoirs, and gentle ridges characterize a landscape that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and families year-round. In winter, the Sauerland transforms into the most important ski area west of the Harz: Winterberg at Kahlen Asten (843 m), the highest mountain in North Rhine-Westphalia, offers over 25 kilometers of slopes, night skiing, and a professional bobsled track used for the World Cup. Willingen, with its Mühlenkopfschanze, attracts tens of thousands of spectators for ski jumping each year. In summer, over 2,000 kilometers of marked hiking trails, including the award-winning Rothaarsteig, beckon. The Biggesee and Sorpesee offer sailing, surfing, and swimming amidst wooded hills. The Atta Cave in Attendorn is one of the most beautiful stalactite caves in Germany, featuring fascinating stalagmites and stalactites. The old town of Freudenberg, with its black-and-white half-timbered houses — known as Alter Flecken — is an architectural masterpiece and a popular photo motif. Arnsberg, Meschede, and Schmallenberg are charming small towns with historic cores. The Sauerland cuisine is hearty and down-to-earth: Potthucke (potato cake), Pfefferpotthast, and fresh trout from the mountain streams are among the regional specialties.