Hemer walks

The former Apricke military training area in the Märkischer Kreis is now a refuge for rare animal species. Heck cattle, a breed modelled on the aurochs, and Dülmen horses, which resemble European wild horses, graze the land all year round. Their hardiness and frugality shape the landscape even during the winter months. From spring onwards, the area provides breeding grounds for specific bird species such as the meadow pipit, whinchat, tree pipit, yellowhammer and red-backed shrike. During the summer months, the distinctive calls of midwife toads can also be heard after dark. Designed as a circular walk, this site offers insights into the ecological succession of a former military site and its current role as a valuable biotope.

The regional A6 ‘Rund um Schlüchtern’ hiking trail in Schalksmühle showcases the diverse natural landscape of the Märkischer Kreis. The route leads through varied woodland areas and alongside tranquil streams, which are characteristic of the Sauerland. Hikers can expect a route that offers both relaxing sections and moderate inclines. The nature of the paths varies, creating a dynamic hiking experience that appeals to the senses. The scenic backdrop features a harmonious blend of dense greenery and open stretches, which continually offer new perspectives on the surroundings. The route is designed to allow for an in-depth exploration of the local flora and fauna. This walk represents a carefully planned opportunity to actively explore the region’s natural beauty.

The A10 ‘Kleine Runde mit Volmeblick’ is a regional walking trail that winds its way through the characteristic landscape of the Märkischer Kreis. This path offers walkers unique perspectives on the Volme Valley and its natural surroundings in Schalksmühle. The carefully designed route allows walkers to immerse themselves in the local flora and fauna, whilst experiencing a harmonious interplay of woodland sections and open vantage points. The route is designed to reflect the region’s topographical features whilst offering both relaxation and an experience of nature. The views of the Volme, nestled amongst the rolling hills, are a defining feature of this tour and invite you to explore the scenic diversity of this area. The route is characterised by its manageable nature, which encourages a deep appreciation of the surroundings and provides a comprehensive insight into the region’s distinctive features.

The circular walking route around Ennepetal-Voerde begins and ends at the fairground. The route leads through Lindenstraße, along Friemannweg and via Vilvoorder Straße into the rural surroundings featuring fields, hills, farmsteads and wooded hillsides. Further stops include Störringen, Gut Braband and the Ferdinand Bilstein site. The circular route then leads back to the starting point.

The regional walking route “Left and Right of the Heilenbecke” is a circular walk from Uhlenbart via Rüggeberg, the Heilenbecke Dam, Ravenschlag and Wittenstein back to the starting point. Dense forests, meadows, quiet woodland paths and views of the Bergisch landscape characterise the route. The historic village of Wittenstein adds a touch of regional history to the scenic impressions.

The partly redesigned circular walk offers views of the Heilenbecke valley and two of its tributaries. At the start, the walk follows the Heilenbecker-Hangweg with virtually no incline. Other stops along the route include the village of Wittenstein with its old half-timbered houses, the Grimmelsberg and the Königsfeld spa clinic.

The historic Muttental Mining Circular Walk passes not only the Hardenstein Castle ruins on the banks of the Ruhr but also the Nachtigall Colliery. Here you’ll find a museum with an interesting exhibition.

The route takes you through Muttental and Bommerholz, partly along the so-called Mining Trail, which offers small, museum-like insights into mining, down to the Hardenstein ruins on the River Ruhr and back to the starting point.