Itinerary Suggestions: Sauerland

Weekend Getaway 2-3 days

Tailor this trip to seasonal highlights. In winter, focus on snow sports. In summer, prioritize hiking and lake activities.

Choose Winterberg as your base for this quick trip.

Sample Activities

Skiing or snowboarding in winter at Skiliftkarussell Winterberg.
Extensive hiking or mountain biking in summer at Bikepark Winterberg.
Summer toboggan run or visit a charming nearby village.

Time-Based Itineraries for Sauerland

Whether you have a weekend or two weeks, these itineraries aid in maximizing your time in Sauerland.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience 7 days

This itinerary presents a balanced overview of Sauerland's diverse offerings.

Day-by-Day Highlights

Day 1-2: Winterberg/Hochsauerland (active pursuits, panoramic views).
Day 3-4: Schmallenberg Region (cultural experiences, half-timbered villages).
Day 5-6: Lake Region (Möhnesee/Biggesee/Sorpesee) for water activities.
Day 7: Historical Sauerland (Arnsberg or Burg Altena) & Departure.

This itinerary allows for experiencing nature, culture, and relaxation.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration 14 days

This itinerary allows for a deep dive into specific regions and offers multi-day extensions.

Extended Exploration Options

Week 1: Follow the one-week itinerary with more time in each area.
Week 2, Option A: Nature & History Focus (Edersee, Soest, Freilichtmuseum Hagen).
Week 2, Option B: City & Culture Focus (Ruhr Area, Cologne/Düsseldorf).

Interest-Based Routes: History & Heritage

Tailor your Sauerland trip to historical and heritage passions.

Historical Journey

Base in Arnsberg or Attendorn.
Explore Burg Altena, Sauerland-Museum Arnsberg.
Wander through old towns of Arnsberg, Attendorn, and Soest.
Visit the Balve Cave for archaeological insights.

Interest-Based Routes: Food & Culinary

For food lovers, explore Sauerland's culinary delights.

Culinary Journey

Concentrate on rural areas, especially around Schmallenberg.
Seek out traditional Gasthäuser for regional dishes like Potthucke.
Visit local Hofläden (farm shops) for specialties (honey, cheese).
Sample locally brewed German beers.

Additional Interest-Based Routes

Sauerland caters to various interests with tailored travel plans.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Base in Winterberg. Hike challenging trails, mountain biking, skiing, high ropes, summer tobogganing.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Base near a lake or Winterberg. Visit Aventura Playpark, Fort Fun, Wildpark Edersee, boat trips, easy hikes.

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Base in Arnsberg/Schmallenberg. Explore half-timbered houses, castle ruins, churches, local art galleries.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

Base in Bad Sassendorf for thermal baths and spa treatments. Incorporate peaceful hikes, therapeutic saltwater springs, and quiet places for reflection.

Budget-Based Plans for Sauerland

Sauerland offers options for various budget levels. Choose a plan aligning with your financial considerations.

Backpacker's Guide

Maximize savings while exploring Sauerland's natural beauty.

Budget Travel Tips

Stay in Jugendherbergen (youth hostels) or inexpensive vacation rentals.
Cook your own meals using groceries from local supermarkets.
Rely on public transport (consider Deutschlandticket for longer stays).
Prioritize free activities like hiking, exploring villages, and picnicking.

Seek out free museums or observation points to keep costs low.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

A comfortable experience balancing cost and convenience.

Balanced Travel Tips

Stay in comfortable mid-range hotels or well-equipped vacation rentals.
Enjoy meals at local restaurants and traditional Gasthäuser.
Rent a car for a few days to broaden your exploration.
Mix free activities with paid attractions (museums, boat trips).

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium services and exclusive experiences.

High-End Stays

Book stays in 4- or 5-star hotels or luxury chalets.
Choose accommodations with spa facilities.
Indulge in fine dining at higher-end restaurants.

Premium Activities

Consider private transfers or rent a high-end car.
Enjoy exclusive guided tours and private spa treatments.
Seek premium experiences like hot air balloon rides (if available).

Value-Focused Recommendations

Smart choices for a cost-effective yet fulfilling trip.

Cost-Saving Strategies

Travel during shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for better prices.
Look for package deals from hotels or tour operators.
Inquire about the "Sauerland Card" for free transport and discounts.
Mix self-catering with local eatery meals.

Seasonal Specialties in Sauerland

Sauerland transforms with the seasons, presenting unique experiences each period.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer (June-August): Prime for hiking, cycling, water sports, open-air events.
Winter (December-March): Winter wonderland for skiing, snowboarding, Christmas markets.
Autumn (September-November): Golden forests for hiking, pleasant air, game dishes.
Spring (April-May): Nature awakens, blossoming landscapes, fewer crowds, moderate temperatures.

Essential Pre-Trip Preparation

Offline Maps

Download offline maps for your chosen hiking or cycling routes before you start. Mobile signal can be unreliable in some remote parts of Sauerland's forests.

Connectivity Check

Confirm your mobile phone's international roaming settings or consider an eSIM for immediate connectivity upon arrival.

Connectivity Reminder