Gierskopp: Kneipp Walking and Local History

Gierskopp is a place to visit for walking, Kneipp activities and local history. The Olsberg Kneipp Walking Trail begins and ends at the Red Bridge on Roten Weg in the district. This challenging circular hike is 41 kilometres long and includes around 1,366 metres of ascent and 1,369 metres of descent. These key figures give an idea of the scale of this long-distance hike. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, the route length and elevation change can help you plan your trip.

Walking and Kneipp activities in Gierskopp

The Gierskoppbach stream is part of the natural surroundings along the Olsberg Kneipp Walking Trail. The water-focused concept includes natural spring-water footbaths, as well as numerous Kneipp footbaths and arm-bathing pools. A spring tour leads to the footbath by the Gierskopp, also known as “An der Scharfsbrücke.” Hikers can take a break there and cool their feet. The long circular hike and this named rest stop show two different scales of the walking experience: a route spanning many kilometres and a specific place to pause.

The spiritual walking trail “Ruhrauen – The Light of the Candle” branches off at the Gierskoppbach, follows the Kneipp AktivWeg Olsberg along the Gierskopp and then continues along the Ruhr. Another route option is the “Nach Wasserfall” road cycling tour, which passes through Gierskopp on the L743. The options differ in their mode of travel and route: alongside the challenging circular hike, there is a spiritual walking trail along the Gierskopp and Ruhr, as well as a road cycling tour through the village.

The Grotto of Our Lady and local history

The Grotto of Our Lady in Gierskopp was built near the Gierskoppbach as a place of prayer. It took four months to complete and was solemnly consecrated in October 1912. Around 1925, a memorial to the Gierskopp men who fell in the First World War was incorporated into the site. Two historical developments are thus represented here: the construction of the place of prayer and its later addition as a memorial site.

Another historical landmark in the village is the Schultenhof, which was renovated in 1837. The dates 1837, 1912 and around 1925 point to different chapters in local history: the renovation of the farm, the consecration of the Grotto of Our Lady and the incorporation of the memorial. Those interested in history will find a distinct focus for their stay here, alongside the walking trails.

Getting here and local events

The Gierskopp Körner bus stop in Olsberg is served by bus route R31; from there, it is about a 15-minute uphill walk. Check the timetable for your travel date to plan your journey. The Giersker Karnevalisten hold their gala sessions at the “Giersker Treff” clubhouse. If you would like to plan your trip around an event, check the dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Bruchhausen, Assinghausen, Wulmeringhausen, Elpe, Wiemeringhausen, Antfeld, Elleringhausen

Go to the main travel overview: Olsberg.