With almost 4,000 hectares of forest, the 800-year-old mountain and Hanseatic town is the third most densely wooded municipality in Northrhine-Westphalia in the middle of the Arnsberg Forest Nature Park. An intact idyllic landscape with crystal-clear streams, ancient giant trees and fascinating flora and fauna awaits visitors to the Bibertal recreation area.
History can be felt and experienced everywhere in the town with its 15 districts. Fancy a unique three kilometre tour of the town walls, which invites you to linger with wonderful views of the Arnsberg Forest Nature Park? Then Rüthen is just the right destination.
The historic old town with the Hachtor (14th century), the historic town hall (1730) with a monumental circular staircase, the Hexenturm (14th century), the former Capuchin and Ursuline monastery, the water tower (1908) and the over 24-metre-high maypole with handmade guild sign on the market square are just some of the many sights. Small cafés offering homemade cakes and freshly roasted coffee invite you to linger. The baroque watercastle Körtlinghausen in the district of Kallenhardt is a real gem, with amazing hiking tours along the castle or the raven's nest route. There are also over 180 other kilometers of well-marked hiking trails waiting to be explored.
And all of this is embedded in a dreamlike landscape with crystal-clear streams, dense forests and fascinating flora and fauna. The outdoor forest pool, forest boat and adventure playground, located directly on the magical, mystical Sauerland-Waldroute, are further highlights to experience. You are not good on foot? Here is the solution - pilgrimage tours in barrier-free covered wagons are possible - including a visit to the Church of Lights. Thirsty and hungry? Whiskey tasting and a Michelin-starred restaurant are also part of Rüthen's repertoire!