Discover Lippe: Trails, nature and culture

The hiking trail network in Lippe covers around 2,000 kilometres. It includes a section of European long-distance path E1, as well as the award-winning “Hermannshöhen” and “Hansaweg” trails. If you are planning a trip to Lippe, you can start by looking at the trails and deciding which places you would like to visit along the way. Check the condition of the relevant trails before setting out.

A prominent landmark for hikers is the Hermannsdenkmal: it stands on the 386-metre-high Grotenburg in Hiddesen, a district southwest of Detmold. The WALK Hiking Competence Centre, a central hub for hikers and anyone interested in hiking, is also located at the monument. The Hermanneum uses digital applications and interactive stations to present the history of the monument and its inspiration, Arminius. When visiting the panoramic viewing platform, bear in mind that it can only be reached via a steep spiral staircase with 100 steps.

On weekends and public holidays from Easter to 1 November, the Nature Park Bus on route 792 runs to the Hermannsdenkmal; it serves the “Hermannsdenkmal” stop. If you plan to take the bus, check the timetable before departure. This will help you coordinate the seasonal service with your plans.

Nature experiences and wildlife parks

The Externsteine are a cultural and natural monument in the heart of Lippe. Wildlife parks offer a different perspective on nature and the landscape: the Berlebeck Eagle Observatory is home to 180 large and small birds of prey from 48 species. The observatory is also known for its spectacular flying displays. Check the show times before you travel.

More than 1,000 birds and mammals from 300 different species live in large aviaries and outdoor enclosures at Heiligenkirchen Bird Park. Visitors can hand-feed birds in the parrot aviary and in the budgerigar and small parrot aviary. The Berlebeck Eagle Observatory’s educational and information centre focuses on something different: modern media introduce visitors to birds of prey, the history of falconry and the observatory’s role in species conservation. The centre is suitable for school classes and other groups.

The LWL Hellerlecht Museum also combines exhibitions with vivid insights into past ways of life and work. Its open-air site covers more than 90 hectares and includes over 100 fully furnished buildings from all the regions of Westphalia. Traditional crafts such as flour milling, blacksmithing and pottery are demonstrated daily; check the programme before your visit.

Urban history, architecture and performing arts

Lippe has seven historic town centres characterised by Renaissance architecture. In Lemgo, the Weser Renaissance Museum presents the cultural history of the Weser region in the 16th and 17th centuries. Guided tours offer a chance to explore Detmold’s Princely Residence Palace. The rooms provide insights into the Renaissance, Neo-Renaissance, Weser Renaissance, Baroque and Modern eras, bringing several periods together under one roof.

For theatre-goers, the Detmold State Theatre offers four venues presenting drama, opera and ballet. In Lügde, the Osterräderlauf (Easter Wheel Run) is recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage and is firmly rooted in local tradition. If you would like to include the event in your travel plans, check the exact dates separately.

Spa park, regional cuisine and more trails

Bad Salzuflen offers a variety of nature and cultural attractions. The spa park features a Kneipp island with foot-bath and arm-bath pools, as well as an adventure trail. At the Wandelhalle, digital, interactive and analogue displays present the history, traditions and culture of this saline-water and Kneipp spa town. Access conditions can change, so checking the latest visitor information will help you plan. The availability of individual attractions in the spa park may also vary.

Lippischer Pickert is a traditional regional potato speciality served at inns, farm cafés and restaurants. Menus vary from place to place. For longer outings, the Fürstenroute Lippe is another option: this multi-day trail links the castles, fortresses and parks of the Lippe region.

Those who prefer a circular route can follow the Climate Experience Trail in Oerlinghausen. It starts and ends at the Oerlinghausen Climate Experience Centre, Am Kalkofen 15. This makes it easy to combine the route with a visit to the centre, without having to plan separate start and end points.

Discover more destinations: Blomberg, Oerlinghausen, Bad Salzuflen, Kalletal, Detmold, Dörentrup, Horn-Bad Meinberg, Lemgo, Lügde, Extertal, Schieder-Schwalenberg, Rott, Hörstmar, Lage, Barntrup, Schlangen, Augustdorf, Leopoldshöhe.

View the overview of the wider region: North Rhine-Westphalia.