Camping Guide | Sauerland

The Sauerland extends in the southeastern part of North Rhine-Westphalia and borders Hesse. It essentially comprises the Hochsauerland District, the Märkischer District, the Olpe District, the Siegen-Wittgenstein District, and the Soest District. The region is known for its forested low mountain range landscape and its numerous lakes and rivers. Traveling by car is straightforward via well-developed motorways. From the north, you can best reach the Sauerland via the A1 and A44. Coming from the east, the A4 is a good option. Those arriving from the south use the A45. From the west, the Sauerland can be reached via the A4 and A44. Note that there is a truck toll on some motorway sections in Germany, but not for cars or motorhomes under 3.5 tons. Gas stations are sufficiently available along the motorways. However, the parking situation at tourist hotspots can be tight during the high season. For travel by train, the stations in larger cities like Hagen, Siegen, or Arnsberg are ideal. From there, you can reach the smaller towns in the Sauerland by regional trains and buses. Deutsche Bahn offers regular connections from all parts of Germany. For example, you can reach Hagen from Munich in about 6 hours by ICE. From Hamburg, the journey by ICE to Hagen takes about 4 hours. From Frankfurt am Main, you can be in Siegen in about 2.5 hours. The nearest airports are Dortmund (DTM) and Paderborn/Lippstadt (PAD). From both airports, you can continue your journey into the Sauerland by public transport or rental car. From Dortmund Airport, it takes about 1.5 hours by train to Arnsberg. From Paderborn/Lippstadt Airport, you can reach Brilon in about an hour by bus. Within the Sauerland, it is best to get around by car or bicycle. The cycle path network is well-developed and offers numerous opportunities for extensive tours. The bus network is also relatively dense, so you can reach many places even without your own car. For hikes, it is recommended to bring sturdy shoes and weatherproof clothing, as the weather in the Sauerland can change quickly.

The Sauerland can be roughly divided into different sub-regions, each with its own character and charm. The Hochsauerland District forms the heart of the Sauerland. Here you will find the highest mountains in the region, including the Kahler Asten, which at 841 meters is the highest mountain in North Rhine-Westphalia. Winterberg is a well-known winter sports center that also offers numerous outdoor activities such as mountain biking and hiking in summer. Towns like Willingen and Schmallenberg are also popular destinations for tourists. The Hochsauerland District is ideal for active travelers who enjoy hiking, skiing, or mountain biking. Families also feel at home here, as there are numerous leisure activities for children. The Märkischer District is characterized by its forested landscape and its numerous reservoirs. The city of Lüdenscheid is the economic center of the district. Kierspe and Halver are popular starting points for hikes. The Märkischer District is particularly suitable for nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet. Anglers also get their money's worth here, as there are many opportunities for fishing in the reservoirs. The Olpe District is known for its large lakes, including the Biggesee and the Listersee. Olpe is the district town and offers a historic old town. Attendorn is a popular excursion destination with its Atta Cave, one of the largest and most beautiful dripstone caves in Germany. The Olpe District is ideal for water sports enthusiasts and families. Here you can sail, swim, canoe, or just relax by the lake. The Siegen-Wittgenstein District is the southernmost part of the Sauerland and borders Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate. Siegen is the largest city and university town in the district. Wittgenstein is known for its rural idyll and its numerous hiking trails. The Siegen-Wittgenstein District is particularly suitable for hikers and those interested in culture. Here you can visit historic castles and palaces or explore nature on the numerous hiking trails. The Soest District lies on the northern edge of the Sauerland and is characterized by rolling hills and agricultural land. Soest is a historic Hanseatic city with an impressive old town. Werl is a well-known place of pilgrimage. The Soest District is ideal for those interested in culture and cyclists. Here you can explore the historic old town of Soest or take a bike tour through the rolling hills.

The camping landscape in the Sauerland is diverse and offers something for every taste. There are an estimated 80-90 campsites in the region, varying in size, facilities, and location. You will find both large resort sites with extensive leisure facilities and small, natural campsites that promise peace and relaxation. Many campsites in the Sauerland are family-friendly and offer animation and playgrounds for children. Some sites have pools, restaurants, and supermarkets. Others specialize in motorhomes and offer pitches with supply and disposal facilities. Agriturismo or farm camping is also an option in the Sauerland. Here you can experience country life up close and buy regional products directly from the producer. The pitches are often more simply equipped but are located in particularly idyllic settings. Prices for a pitch in the Sauerland vary depending on the season, location, and facilities. In the high season (July/August), you should expect prices between 25 and 40 euros per night. In the low season (May/June and September/October), prices are often significantly cheaper, ranging between 18 and 30 euros per night. Often, additional costs for electricity, water, and visitor's tax are to be paid. The size of typical pitches also varies. On larger campsites, the plots are often parceled and offer enough space for a motorhome or a caravan with an awning. On smaller sites, the pitches are often natural and offer more privacy. Many pitches are surrounded by trees and offer shade, but there are also sunny pitches. The sanitary standard on the campsites in the Sauerland is generally good. Most sites have clean sanitary facilities with showers, toilets, and sinks. Some sites also offer washing machines and dryers. Wi-Fi quality varies. On larger sites, Wi-Fi is often available, but the speed can vary. On smaller sites, there is often no Wi-Fi. The power supply is usually sufficient. Most pitches have power connections with 6 or 16 amperes. It is recommended to reserve a pitch in the Sauerland in good time, especially in the high season. While there are always last-minute chances, the selection is then often limited. Many campsites offer online reservations.

For a carefree camping holiday in the Sauerland, it is helpful to know some practical information. Tolls are not charged on motorways in Germany for cars or motorhomes under 3.5 tons. For heavier vehicles, a toll fee must be paid, which is based on the distance driven and the emission class. Payment is made electronically via an on-board unit or manually at toll stations. Diesel prices in Germany are generally slightly higher than in other European countries. Prices vary depending on the region and time of day. Gas stations are sufficiently available along the motorways and in larger towns. Opening hours are usually from morning to evening, with some gas stations open 24 hours. Supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi, Rewe, and Edeka are widespread in the Sauerland. Opening hours are usually Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 8 pm. Some supermarkets are also open on Sundays, especially in tourist areas. German gas cylinders cannot usually be exchanged directly in the Sauerland. It is recommended to bring an adapter or have a German gas cylinder filled locally. Some campsites also offer gas cylinders for sale or rent. Disposal stations for motorhomes are available on many campsites and at rest areas. Here you can empty your wastewater and your toilet. The fees are usually included in the pitch price or can be paid for a small fee. Mobile network coverage in the Sauerland is generally good, but there may be restrictions in remote areas. Roaming charges do not apply within the EU. Medical care in the Sauerland is good. There are hospitals and pharmacies in the larger towns. In an emergency, you can reach the rescue service at the telephone number 112. Wild camping is generally prohibited in the Sauerland. However, there are a few exceptions, for example, on private property with the owner's permission. There are no environmental zones in the Sauerland. Tap water in the Sauerland is generally of good quality and can be drunk without hesitation.

Anyone who really wants to experience the Sauerland should move off the beaten path and consider some secret tips. The low season (May/June and September/October) offers many advantages. The campsites are less crowded, prices are cheaper, and nature shows its most beautiful side. Especially in spring, the meadows and forests bloom in full glory. A less well-known place is the Sorpesee, which lies south of the better-known Möhnesee. Here you will find quiet bays and idyllic campsites. You can reach the Sorpesee via the B229. Local markets are a must for foodies. In many towns, weekly markets take place regularly where you can buy regional products such as cheese, sausage, bread, and vegetables. A special experience is the farmers' market in Schmallenberg, which takes place every Saturday. A culinary tip is the Sauerländer Potthucke, a hearty potato casserole with bacon and onions. You can get this dish in many inns in the Sauerland. Locals like to visit the restaurant "Zum alten Knappen" in Winterberg or the guesthouse "Zur Post" in Schmallenberg. A worthwhile day trip is visiting Altena Castle, a medieval hilltop castle with an interesting history. The castle is located on a mountain spur above the town of Altena and can be reached via a steep road or a hiking trail. The driving time from Winterberg is about 1 hour. Local festivals and events are a great way to get to know the culture of the Sauerland. A well-known festival is the Schützenfest in Schmallenberg, which takes place every year in July. Here you can experience traditional music, costumes, and customs.