Altena between Castle, Wire and Discovery

Altena combines the history of its castle with a long tradition of wire-making and experiences in the town centre and outdoors. When planning a stay, it is worth exploring the different highlights: a chapter in the history of youth hostels began at the castle, while trails, museums and activities offer further ways to discover the town.

Castle, Youth Hostel and Wire History

The world’s first youth hostel opened at Altena Castle in 1914. The castle therefore also marks an important milestone in the history of youth hostels. Another defining strand of the town’s history is wire production: wire has been drawn in Altena and the surrounding region since the 16th century. What began as laborious handcraft developed into an industry that continues to shape Altena today.

The German Wire Museum brings the development of wire-making to life. Under the motto “From Chain Mail to Superconductor,” it shows and explains how wire was made in the past and how it is made today. Visitors can try out many of the exhibits, and interactive experiment stations invite them to take part.

Tallenbrink, the synagogues and the Jewish cemetery are also connected with Jewish life in Altena. They add another perspective on the town’s history alongside its industrial past.

Trails and Experiences in Altena

The Altena History and Nature Trail begins opposite the castle and is about 3 km long. From there, it leads to a circular trail along the Altena Heights. Information panels explain the local flora and fauna; sculptures, model panels and a tipi add to the experience. Nature themes, information along the trail and designed features all come together. The Adventure Lift takes visitors directly up to Altena Castle. Before your trip, check whether the lift is currently operating.

A treasure hunt takes participants through Altena town centre with Knight Eberhard as their guide: they solve riddles and search for a treasure. It is suitable for children aged 6 and over. The age recommendation can help you decide whether to include this activity when planning a stay with children.

The South Westphalia Iron Route passes through Altena and brings industrial heritage in South Westphalia to life for visitors of all ages. It offers another perspective on a theme that also defines the town’s wire-making history.

More Ways to Enjoy Your Stay

One hiking route runs from Altena to Hemer or Neuenrade; you can take the bus back. Check current bus connections before setting out. From May to October, the Altenaer-Canu-Verein e.V. offers “After-Work Paddling” from 6 to 8 pm on the first Tuesday of each month. The Altenaer-Canu-Verein e.V. offers taster courses for beginners and advanced paddlers. Ask the club about current course availability and confirm the paddling dates before taking part.

Metalworking History in the Märkischer Kreis

The wider destination of Märkischer Kreis offers further perspectives on the region’s metalworking history. The wire industry of the Sauerland used a material known as Osemunde iron. This exceptionally soft iron could be drawn into fine wire. The Luisenhütte is a visitor-focused museum that vividly shows how iron was produced there and further processed into cast products. The raw material and its further processing each offer a different insight into the region’s metalworking history.

Discover more destinations: Hemer, Werdohl, Halver, Meinerzhagen, Balve, Plettenberg, Menden, Iserlohn

See the overview of the wider destination: Märkischer Kreis.