Hike to the waterfall

Hidden in the forest near Bestwig-Wasserfall is the highest natural waterfall in North Rhine-Westphalia: the Plästerlegge.
The word "plästern" means "to rain" in Low German; "Leggen" are slate rocks (= rain on slate rock). The word hints at the reality: that the waterfall can only be admired in full "function" during very wet weather. After longer dry periods, the waterfall can run dry. The water falls almost vertically about 20 m over a rock ledge and then flows about 500 m as a cascade. The water of the Plästerlegge flows into the Elpe, which flows into the Ruhr near Ostwig.
Below the waterfall there is a seating area inviting you to take a rest. There are also information boards about the flora in the nature reserve "Plästerlegge".
The waterfall is located in a nature reserve. Please do not leave the paths!
A section of the hike follows the Bestwiger Panoramaweg, which offers magnificent panoramic views. In addition to panoramic views, you will encounter traces of the past in the form of ore mining, slate mining, and railway history. Wayside shrines, wayside crosses, churches, and chapels provide a glimpse into the Catholic church history of the Sauerland region. The well-kept villages still display the black-and-white contrast of the typical half-timbered houses of the Sauerland region.
On the way back and upon arrival above "Ramsbeck", a detour to the village is worthwhile. There you can stop by Café Hamich and enjoy a piece of delicious cake. The Ramsbeck visitor mine is also not far away. Pay a visit to the museum and embark on a journey of discovery into the depths of the earth.