Schmallenberg. The sun is coming out more and more often and the hiking boots are waiting to be laced up. Getting out into nature, discovering spring and being active again after the long winter months - that's what many people want. The Rothaarsteig is the perfect destination for short or long hikes. Hiking enthusiasts want to get out and about, and so the planning for the first tours begins. Some like to organize the route themselves with overnight stays, others prefer to take advantage of comprehensive package deals. With the two new Rothaarsteig brochures, the trail guide and the hiking packages, both are possible.
The Rothaarsteig guide is the best help hikers could wish for if they want to organize their own hike on the Rothaarsteig. "The handy booklet in DIN long format fits easily into your hiking rucksack or the pocket on your hiking trousers and is helpful both when planning and on the go," says Katharina Schwake-Drucks, responsible for marketing and public relations at the Rothaarsteig Association.
Overview map for better orientation and details of accommodation
The fold-out overview map provides an overview of the trail, which not only contains lots of useful information, but also details of the distance covered. If you only want to hike part of the Rothaarsteig, the distance is easy to calculate.
For further stage planning, hikers will find a clear list of accommodation and catering establishments, which are shown from north to south along the trail. Contact information, prices, distance to the Rothaarsteig, an access route or a Rothaarsteig trail - all this important information is clearly listed. Hikers with dogs can also see at a glance whether their four-legged friend is welcome in the accommodation. The Rothaarsteig quality establishments certified as hiker-friendly are also specially marked.
Camping, arrival and departure, marking and signposting
For hikers interested in camping, the motorhome, tent and trekking sites along the Rothaarsteig are listed. For each section of the 8-stage tour, there is also important information on arrival and departure, public transport connections, route markings and signposting and the popular hiking pass.
Considerate treatment of nature
The forest has changed a lot in recent years. The reasons for this are drought, storms and the bark beetle. Hikers are given information on how to treat nature with respect and rules of conduct in the event of encountering bison or other wild animals. There is also a section with frequently asked questions so that everyone can start their hiking break on the Rothaarsteig well prepared at the end.
Attractive complete offers in the hiking packages
If you would prefer to book your hike along the Rothaarsteig as a package, you should take a look at the "Hiking packages" brochure. Hiking enthusiasts will find attractive all-inclusive offers for hikes along the entire trail or parts of the Rothaarsteig. "In addition to accommodation and meals, the offers usually include luggage transfer, packed lunches and other hiking-specific services. Of course, those who prefer to carry their own luggage can also do so," reports Dr. Harald Knoche, head of the Rothaarsteig office.
Speed-Hiking package and wild weather offer
In the brochure, hikers will find packages for long-distance hikes where the accommodation changes daily, but there are also offers where part of the Rothaarsteig is hiked from a fixed location. Themed offers are also presented, such as a Speed-Hiking package for those who want to be a little faster and sportier on the trail. There is also a wild weather offer that includes soothing massages and wellness treatments after the hike. The packages can be requested directly online via the Rothaarsteig website www.rothaarsteig.de/wanderpauschalen. The advantage of hiking packages is that you have a provider who organizes and books everything from a single source and you don't have to worry about anything yourself.
Brochures provide the best possible assistance
Both brochures feature up-to-date images of the Rothaarsteig and provide inspiration for your next tour. "Planning a long-distance hike can be complex, we want to provide the best possible assistance with the two brochures so that preparation is as easy as possible," emphasizes Katharina Schwake-Drucks. Sustainability also plays a major role in the production of the brochures. This is why they have been printed on PEFC-certified uncoated paper for the first time.
Anyone wishing to order one or both brochures can do so free of charge via the Rothaarsteig website www.rothaarsteig.de/prospekte. They are also available at the tourist information offices along the Rothaarsteig.