Schmallenberg Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in Schmallenberg with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the cultural and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Schmallenberg

Schmallenberg is a charming town located in the southern region of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The town is nestled in the midst of lush green hills, where you can breathe the clean, fresh air and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature. Schmallenberg is known for its picturesque landscapes, cultural heritage sites, outdoor activities, and delicious food. It’s an ideal destination for those who are seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and want to unwind in a peaceful environment.

List of Places to Visit in Schmallenberg

There are plenty of things to see and do in Schmallenberg. Here’s a list of the places you should visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Schmallenberger Land Museum - One of the must-see places in Schmallenberg is the Schmallenberger Land Museum, where you can explore the history and culture of the town. The museum consists of two buildings, the Stöppelhaus and the Alte Gerichtsschreiberei, which house an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents.

  • Castle of Schmallenberg - The Castle of Schmallenberg is a historical landmark that dates back to the 13th century. The castle was rebuilt in the 18th century and served as the administrative center for the region until the 1970s. Today, the castle houses a youth hostel where you can stay for a night or two.

Natural Attractions of Schmallenberg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kyrill-Pfad Schanze - The Kyrill-Pfad Schanze is a scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trail is named after the Kyrill storm that hit Europe in 2007 and uprooted thousands of trees in the area. The trail is a tribute to the storm and its impact on the landscape.

  • Rothaarsteig Trail - The Rothaarsteig Trail is a popular hiking trail that stretches for 154 km through the Sauerland region. The trail passes through Schmallenberg and offers hikers a chance to explore the beautiful countryside, forested hills, and scenic vistas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Schmallenberg

Schmallenberg is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its numerous hiking and biking trails. Some of the best trails include:

  • Schmallenberger Höhenroute - The Schmallenberger Höhenroute is a circular hiking trail that covers a distance of 28 km. The trail takes hikers through the scenic countryside, forests, and hills, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Bike Arena Sauerland - The Bike Arena Sauerland is a network of trails that cover over 1,700 km of scenic landscape. The area includes 44 signposted trails that cater to all levels of mountain bikers.

Best Things to Do in Schmallenberg: Activities and Tours

Schmallenberg has a variety of activities to suit all tastes. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Schmallenberger Kultursommer - The Schmallenberger Kultursommer is an annual summer festival that brings together music, culture, and food. The festival takes place in the Old Town and features live music, theater performances, and food and drink stalls.

  • Kletterwald Schmallenberg - The Kletterwald Schmallenberg is an adventure park that offers a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages. The park features a range of activities, including zip-lining, rope climbing, and obstacle courses.

Week-Long Itinerary for Schmallenberg

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Schmallenberg, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Schmallenberger Land Museum, Old Town
2 Rothaarsteig Trail
3 Kyrill-Pfad Schanze, Castle of Schmallenberg
4 Bike Arena Sauerland
5 Winterberg Ski Resort
6 Kletterwald Schmallenberg, Schmallenberger Kultursommer festival
7 Local Markets and Souvenir Shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Schmallenberg

Schmallenberg is known for its delicious local cuisine and refreshing beverages. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sauerländer Platte - The Sauerländer Platte is a hearty platter of local meats, cheeses, and breads.

  • Kartoffelpuffer - Kartoffelpuffer, or German potato pancakes, are a popular local snack.

Local Beverages

  • Korn - Korn is a local schnapps made from fermented grain.

  • Sauerländer Alphornbläser Pils - The Sauerländer Alphornbläser Pils is a local beer brewed in Schmallenberg.

Where to Stay in Schmallenberg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Schmallenberg has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Landhotel Gasthof Wüllner - The Landhotel Gasthof Wüllner is a charming family-run hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a traditional restaurant.

  • Jugendherberge Schmallenberg - The Jugendherberge Schmallenberg is a cozy hostel located in the Castle of Schmallenberg. The hostel offers comfortable dormitory rooms and private rooms, as well as a common room and kitchen.

What to Buy in Schmallenberg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, here are some ideas:

  • Sauerländer Wurst - Sauerländer Wurst, or local sausages, are a popular snack and make great gifts.

  • Handcrafted Wooden Toys - Schmallenberg is known for its handcrafted wooden toys, which make great souvenirs or gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Schmallenberg

Schmallenberg has a strong cultural heritage that is celebrated through its festivals, traditions, and customs. The town is known for its love of music, food, and outdoor activities. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Schmallenberg

The best time to visit Schmallenberg is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the landscape is lush and green. During this time, visitors can enjoy the outdoor activities, cultural events, and local cuisine.

Do’s and Don’ts of Schmallenberg

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Schmallenberg:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

  • Visit the Schmallenberger Kultursommer festival.

  • Explore the natural attractions, hiking trails, and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the local customs and traditions.

  • Leave your trash behind on hiking trails or in public places.

  • Be disrespectful towards the local people or their culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Schmallenberg

Schmallenberg is a safe destination, with low crime rates. Visitors are advised to take general precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Health in Schmallenberg

Schmallenberg has a good healthcare system, with hospitals and medical clinics located throughout the town. Visitors are advised to ensure that they have appropriate health insurance coverage before traveling.

Getting to Schmallenberg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Schmallenberg

The nearest international airport to Schmallenberg is Düsseldorf Airport, which is approximately 120 km away. Other nearby airports include Cologne/Bonn Airport and Dortmund Airport.

Bus Stations Near Schmallenberg

Schmallenberg is served by several bus stations, including the Schmallenberg bus station, which is located in the town center.

Other Options

There are several car rental companies located in the nearby cities, which provide rental services for visitors.

How to Get Around in Schmallenberg

The best way to get around Schmallenberg is by car or bike. There are several car rental companies located in the town, and bikes can be rented from local bike rental shops.

Where to Go Next from Schmallenberg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Schmallenberg is situated in a picturesque region of Germany, and there are several nearby destinations that are worth exploring:

  • Winterberg - Winterberg is a popular winter sports destination, located just a short drive from Schmallenberg. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

  • Cologne - Cologne is a beautiful city located about two hours away from Schmallenberg. The city is known for its stunning architecture, delicious food, and rich culture.

Conclusion

Schmallenberg is a charming town that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From its scenic hiking trails and outdoor activities to its rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine, Schmallenberg has something for everyone. With our comprehensive travel guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to Schmallenberg.

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