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Rothaarsteig - Stage from Brilon to Bruchhausen

Marktplatz Brilon → Wanderparkplatz Bruchhausen

The section of the Rothaarsteig Trail from Brilon to Bruchhausen offers hikers a multifaceted experience of nature and culture. Starting from Brilon’s historic market square—the official starting point of this section—the route is consistently marked with a horizontal “R” on a red background. Flexible entry points—such as at Olsberg-Touristik, in the center of Elleringhausen, and in Brilon-Wald—allow hikers to customize their route. Along the way, the mysterious ruins of the Borberg churchyard reveal themselves, bearing witness to the region’s long history. The “Meiler, Wälle, Wüstungen” themed trail complements this exploration with cultural-historical sites that offer deep insights into past ways of life and work. A striking landmark is the “Fire Oak,” visible from afar, whose metal band forms a symbolic flame and blends impressively into the natural backdrop. At the Ginsterkopf, hikers are greeted by a sweeping 360-degree panorama. From this elevated vantage point, a comprehensive view opens up over the characteristic low-mountain landscape, shaped by gentle ridges and dense forests. The atmosphere of the Rothaarsteig varies with the light of the day and the specific characteristics of the seasons—from springtime freshness to the vibrant colors of autumn—and always reveals its own unique character. This stage represents a successful blend of nature-based relaxation and cultural discovery that authentically conveys the essence of the Hochsauerland region.

Length
17.7 km
Walking time
approx. 5:45 h
Ascent
470 m
Descent
487 m

Walking time as stated by the operator.

Elevation profile
500 m 600 m
5.8 km 9.4 km 13 km 0 km 17 km

Elevation profile calculated by Fairvisit from satellite elevation data. Ascent and descent usually differ by up to about 10 %, more on steep terrain.

Start

Coordinates 51.39549, 8.56773

Marktplatz Brilon

Nearby

Along the way

Finish

Coordinates 51.32327, 8.52731

Wanderparkplatz Bruchhausen

Nearby

Rothaarsteig - Stage from Brilon to Bruchhausen
Image rights: (c) Klaus-Peter Kappest · CC BY-SA 4.0
Rothaarsteig - Stage from Brilon to Bruchhausen
Image rights: (c) Klaus-Peter Kappest, Germany · CC BY-SA 4.0
Rothaarsteig - Stage from Brilon to Bruchhausen
Image rights: (c) Klaus-Peter Kappest, Germany · CC BY-SA 4.0
Rothaarsteig - Stage from Brilon to Bruchhausen
Image rights: BWT GmbH TBO GmbH · CC BY-SA 4.0
Open route description (external link)

Check trail conditions and closures with the operator before you set off.

Source: Brilon Olsberg GmbH (Geschäftsstelle Brilon) · Public Domain

Elevation data: produced using Copernicus WorldDEM-30 © DLR e.V. 2010-2014 and © Airbus Defence and Space GmbH 2014-2018 provided under COPERNICUS by the European Union and ESA; all rights reserved

The organisations in charge of the Copernicus programme by law or by delegation do not incur any liability for any use of the Copernicus WorldDEM-30.

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