Hermannshöhen - Stage 08 from Oerlinghausen to the Hermann Monument

The stage at a glance:

1. Starting and ending point of the stage
The stage starts in the center of Oerlinghausen and ends at the impressive Hermannsdenkmal on the 356 m high Grotenburg in Hiddesen.

2. Length of the stage in kilometers / altitude meters / route character
The stage is approximately 18 kilometers long and has about 390 meters of altitude. The route often leads through densely wooded areas.

3. Landscape highlights
During the hike, you can expect breathtaking views of the landscape and numerous cultural sights. The route is mostly densely forested.

Highlights on the route:
An old windmill stump, the "Kumsttonne" (Kumst = cabbage) on the Tönsberg is the landmark of Oerlinghausen. The mill was built in 1753 and lost its wings in a storm, remaining in this state on the mountain. The impressive memorial was erected in 1930 as a monument in honor of the fallen soldiers of the King's Infantry Regiment No. 145. Today, this place is meant to remind of peace and reconciliation, and is an important historical monument in the region. At two listening stations in Oerlinghausen, Anna & Hermann share interesting facts about the city. The first listening station is located at the Kumsttonne and another at the Lönsstein. At the second listening station, you will hear fascinating stories about the gliders. A third listening station on the route is located in Lage-Hörste. The Rethlager Quellen - a natural monument along the Hermannsweg - are karst springs that carry very cold water all year round. They are located on the northern slope of the Teutoburg Forest on the edge of the Dörenschlucht. At this spot, the Rethlage spring emerges, flowing into the Werre River on its way. The nature reserve Donoper Teich is a popular destination for hikers, walkers, and families. The area is an important habitat for many rare animal and plant species, offering a breathtaking natural backdrop. In the past, the Donoper Teich was used for fish farming. Even today, you can observe various fish species from the shore. The Hiddeser Bent (Bent = peat bog) is a nature reserve and the last living slope bog in the Teutoburg Forest. Here you can discover many rare plant species, including 13 different types of peat moss. At the northern edge of the Bent, there is an observation platform that allows for wide views over the bog. The Hermannsdenkmal on the 356 m high Grotenburg in Hiddesen is the most famous destination in the Teutoburg Forest. It was built in memory of the "Battle of the Teutoburg Forest" and is an impressive monument with a total height of 54 m. Tip: From the viewing platform of the monument, you have a great view over the landscape.
Note: Information about the monument can be obtained at the local tourist information center.

A good interactive tour map for the stage can be found here.