The 20 Most Amazing Peaks in the Sauerland
Best mountain peaks in the Sauerland offer diverse attractions across North Rhine-Westphalia's largest leisure region. The area is characterized by dense forests, meadows, and clear lakes, earning it the moniker "land of a thousand mountains." Visitors can find panoramic views, challenging hikes, and sites of historical significance. The region provides a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.
Best mountain peaks in the Sauerland
- The most popular mountain peaks is Feldstein Summit (Bruchhauser Steine), a summit that features striking rock formations up to 90 meters high. From the top, visitors have an incredible view and can experience an alpine feeling.
- Another must-see spot is Olsberg Summit (704 m), a summit with a summit cross. Visitors can enjoy fantastic views of Bigge, Olsberg, and the surrounding Rothaargebirge, including the Bruchhauser Steine.
- Visitors also love Langenberg Summit (843 m) – Highest Point in North Rhine-Westphalia, a summit that is the highest mountain in North Rhine-Westphalia. It provides a quiet side of Sauerland away from crowds, offering relatively quiet hiking trails.
- Sauerland is known for summits, viewpoints, and natural monuments. The region offers a variety of mountain peaks to see and explore, from high points with panoramic views to historically significant sites.
- The mountain peaks in the Sauerland are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 200 highlights, over 4000 photos, and more than 7800 upvotes.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Kahler Asten
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Feldstein Summit (Bruchhauser Steine)
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Hochheideturm Observation Tower
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If you still have enough strength in your legs, you will reach the glazed observation deck over 241 steps. But there is also a lift available and you can so comfortably enjoy the great view from up there.
Speaking of strength - you can refuel in the Ettelsberg hut next door. The hut keeper Siggi always ensures a good mood with his whistle trumpet or the alphorn and the burning "hut spirit" and the pea soup in the glass have reached a true cult status.
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Möhnesee Tower
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View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm
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Langenberg Summit (843 m) – Highest Point in North Rhine-Westphalia
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Clemensberg Summit Cross
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Ettelsberg
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Biggeblick Viewing Platform
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Kindelsberg Tower
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Tips from the Community
The Ettelsberg summit and its northern slope are covered by a high heath landscape, the other mountain slopes are wooded. On the north slope is part of the Willingen ski area, for example with the Ettelsberg cable car leading from Willingen up the mountain. Several forest and hiking trails open up the mountain. The 59 m high Hochheideturm, inaugurated in 2002, is near the mountain peak and offers a good all-round view over large parts of the Rothaargebirge, Hochsauerland and Upland. The glazed viewing platform at a height of 875 m can be reached either with an eight-person elevator or via 241 steps. There is a climbing wall at the tower. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ettelsberg
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You have a great panoramic view of the surrounding area from up there.
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The Clemensberg is located in the Neuer Hagen nature reserve, also known as the Niedersfelder Hochheide. It is the fifth highest mountain in the Sauerland. The Clemensberg once had a height of 839.2 meters. But the peak of the mountain was removed as part of the diabase mining. Today's summit is to the north-east of the quarry and originally had a height of 837 metres. As part of a reclamation plan, this peak was raised to 840 meters. Today's summit cross is almost 450 meters west of the former summit. From the mountain cross you can enjoy a wonderful view over the natural area of Harfeld to the Rothaarkamm. Various benches invite you to linger at the summit cross. See sauerland-verzeichnis.de
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The up to 90 meters high Bruchhauser stones are a striking landscape symbol of this region and a landscape protection area. All are under strict nature protection, there is only one way up on the field stone with its summit cross.
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Regardless of the season, there is a wide range of leisure activities on the Ettelsberg. The high heath landscape invites you to hike and stroll and mountain bikers offer signposted routes driving fun for every taste and requirement.
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You have an amazing view and the climb is worth it 👍👍👍
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Storage pond on the Ettelsberg for snow production at the foot of the Hochheideturm.
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Willingen - Ettelsberg, definitely a highlight
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which mountain peaks in the Sauerland offer the most spectacular panoramic views?
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider visiting the Kahler Asten, where the observation tower provides extensive vistas, sometimes even reaching the Brocken in the Harz mountains on clear days. Another excellent choice is the Hochheideturm Observation Tower on Ettelsberg, which is the highest walk-in lookout point in northwest Germany.
Are there any mountain peaks in the Sauerland that are particularly family-friendly?
Yes, several peaks offer family-friendly experiences. The Kahler Asten is easily accessible and features an observation tower and restaurant, making it suitable for families. The Ettelsberg area, accessible via the Ettelsberg mountain, also provides a wide range of leisure activities and well-developed paths, as seen from the View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm highlight.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the Sauerland's mountain peaks?
The Sauerland is known for its diverse natural beauty. You'll find dense forests, meadows, and clear lakes. Notable natural features include the striking rock formations of the Feldstein Summit (Bruchhauser Steine), which offer an alpine feeling. The Langenberg Summit, while forested, provides a quiet natural escape. You can also find beautiful lake views from the Biggeblick Viewing Platform.
Which mountain peaks have historical or cultural significance in the Sauerland?
The Wilzenberg, at 658 meters, is a prominent mountain with significant historical and spiritual importance. It served as both a pilgrimage site and a former pagan cult site, featuring visible ramparts. It's considered one of the 43 'Sauerland-Seelenorte' (Sauerland Soul Places) and has a tower offering views over the Schmallenberg Sauerland. The Kindelsberg Tower also has historical ties, with legends surrounding its ancient ring wall plant.
Are there challenging hiking trails near the Sauerland mountain peaks?
Yes, the Sauerland offers challenging hikes. The Feldstein Summit (Bruchhauser Steine) involves a challenging ascent to its observation point, requiring surefootedness. The Rothaarsteig and Uplandsteig hiking trails run directly over the Langenberg Summit, offering longer, more demanding routes. For specific challenging routes, you can explore the Mountain Hikes in the Sauerland guide, which includes routes like the 'Bornstein (Bruchhauser Steine) – Goldstein (Bruchhauser Stones) loop'.
What outdoor activities, besides hiking, can I do near the Sauerland's mountain peaks?
Beyond hiking, the Sauerland provides a variety of outdoor activities. The Ettelsberg region is excellent for mountain biking, with signposted routes for all skill levels. During winter, the Kahler Asten area near Winterberg transforms into a major hub for winter sports, offering skiing and snowboarding. You can also find gravel biking opportunities, as detailed in the Gravel biking in the Sauerland guide.
Which mountain peak is the highest point in North Rhine-Westphalia?
The highest mountain in North Rhine-Westphalia is Langenberg Summit, standing at 843 meters above sea level. While its summit is forested and doesn't offer distant views, it provides a quiet side of Sauerland for those seeking peaceful hiking trails.
Are there any mountain peaks suitable for dog-friendly walks in the Sauerland?
Yes, the Langenberg Summit is noted as dog-friendly, offering relatively quiet hiking trails through the forest. Many other trails in the Sauerland are also suitable for dogs, but it's always advisable to check local regulations and ensure your dog is on a leash where required.
What facilities are available at or near the mountain peaks?
Facilities vary by peak. The Kahler Asten features an observation tower, a hotel with a restaurant, and a weather station. Near Ettelsberg, you'll find the Hochheideturm with a lift and an Ettelsberg hut for refreshments. The Olsberg Summit offers benches and a relaxation panorama lounger for visitors. The Kindelsberg Tower also has a restaurant.
Can I find running trails near the mountain peaks in the Sauerland?
Absolutely. The Sauerland offers numerous running trails. You can explore various routes, from moderate to difficult, in the region. For detailed options, refer to the Running Trails in the Sauerland guide, which includes trails like the 'Grevenstein Beer Brewing Wonder Trail' and the 'Sorper Panorama Path'.
What makes the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/74571" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Olsberg Summit</a> unique?
The Olsberg Summit, at 704 meters, provides a true summit experience with its summit cross. From the top, you get fantastic views of Bigge, Olsberg, and the surrounding Rothaargebirge, including the unique Bruchhauser Steine. It also features benches and a relaxation panorama lounger, making it a great spot to unwind after the climb.
Is there an accessible viewpoint in the Sauerland mountains?
Yes, the Hochheideturm Observation Tower on Ettelsberg is wheelchair accessible, offering panoramic views from its observation deck. This makes it a great option for visitors seeking accessible viewpoints in the region.
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