4.5
(4506)
21,408
hikers
561
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Handewitter Forest explore one of the largest continuous forest areas in the Schleswig-Flensburg district, covering 590 hectares. The terrain features a mix of fixed and natural forest paths, offering varied walking surfaces. Notable natural features include areas with dead trees, which contribute to the forest's ecological cycle and provide unique visual elements. The forest's extensive network of paths makes it suitable for various hiking preferences.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
5.0
(5)
18
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
7
hikers
7.81km
02:01
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(32)
104
hikers
11.0km
02:50
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Handewitter Forest
In 1997, the Paulsen family implemented the idea of the Porcelain Exchange in a former 80 square meter stable building. High-quality branded porcelain, silver, glass and much more are now offered on 450 square meters. Porcelain from every era and from well-known manufacturers can be purchased at the Porcelain Exchange. Not only the Porcelain Exchange, but also the attached farm café is now known far beyond the region and is a real insider tip for connoisseurs. In addition to the popular rubble cake, there is a changing selection of cakes adapted to the season.
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The 590 hectare Handewitter Forest is one of the largest contiguous forest areas in the Schleswig-Flensburg district. It borders the towns of Altholzrug, Weding and Hüllerup and offers the best conditions for long and short walks thanks to an extensive network of paths. The Pilgrims' Route, a cross-border German-Danish long-distance hiking trail that follows the route of the historic Oxen Trail, also runs through the Handewitter Forest. The same route on which thousands of oxen were driven from Jutland to the Elbe in the early modern period was often used by pilgrims on their way to Rome or Santiago de Compostela in Spain in the Middle Ages. The Pilgrims' Route still represents a pilgrimage connection from the Scandinavian countries to Spain today. There are shelters at some points along the route where you can take a rest.
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It's a good place to take a short break.
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Worth seeing historic church in Handewitt
1
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Good cuisine, also to be enjoyed in barrels
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If you follow the signposts of the main route of the Way of St. James, you will not reach this church, as the path leads past the village. However, the path is still signposted as a "branch" from here back to the main route. In the church there is a stamping point for the pilgrim's passport.
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A nice place for a break, there is also a board here with information about the ox path that is said to have led along here in the past.
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In the Handewitter forest you can hike very well, there are fixed paths but also natural forest paths, so suitable for everyone.
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There are over 570 hiking routes in Handewitter Forest that are accessible from bus stations, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels.
The majority of bus-accessible hikes in Handewitter Forest are considered easy, with over 390 routes. There are also around 170 moderate trails and a few more challenging options for experienced hikers.
Handewitter Forest offers a diverse woodland environment with an extensive network of paths. You can expect to encounter both established and natural forest paths, including notable features like 'dead trees in the forest' which contribute to the ecological cycle and add to the forest's unique charm. The aromatic forest air is also a sensory highlight.
Yes, many of the trails accessible from bus stops are circular routes. For example, you can enjoy the St. George's Church Handewitt – Handewitter Forest loop from Handewitt, which is an easy 4.1 km hike, or the slightly longer Dead Tree in the Forest – The Hüllerup Porcelain Market loop from Hüllerup.
Along the trails, you can discover unique natural features such as the Dead Tree in the Forest, which is a significant ecological landmark. The historic Pilgrimage Route (Ochsenweg-Hærvejen) also runs through the forest, offering shelters and information boards. You might also encounter the intriguing The Kraken Root.
Absolutely. Handewitter Forest has many easy and well-maintained paths that are perfect for families. The diverse environment and features like the 'Squirrel Trail' (Eichhörnchenweg) mentioned in regional research make it an engaging experience for younger hikers. Many of the shorter, easy loops are ideal for family outings.
Yes, Handewitter Forest is generally dog-friendly. Most trails are suitable for walks with your canine companion, but please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially in areas where wildlife might be present or near other hikers. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
The trails in Handewitter Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 4,100 ratings. Hikers often praise the quiet, well-maintained paths, the natural beauty of the forest, and the accessibility from various starting points, including bus stations.
Yes, throughout Handewitter Forest, you'll find shelters and rest areas. Notably, there are shelters along the Pilgrimage Route (Ochsenweg-Hærvejen), such as the Shelter on the Pilgrims' Route Ochsenweg-Hærvejen, which provide convenient spots to take a break, enjoy a snack, and learn about the area.
Handewitter Forest is beautiful year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery, summer offers pleasant shade, and autumn transforms the forest with vibrant colors. Even in winter, the forest has a unique charm, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, there are moderate trails like the Twisted Dead Tree loop from Handewitt, which covers approximately 7.8 km. Another option is The Hüllerup Porcelain Market – Dead Tree in the Forest loop from Altholzkrug, a 7.9 km moderate hike.


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