6.30 am - departure. We, Ilonka and Hannah, are still a little tired in the car. Our destination: the Via Celtica in Dotzlar in the Siegen-Wittgenstein region. Because admittedly: We really can't be described as early risers. But it soon becomes clear after the first few kilometres that getting up early was worth it. The rising sun colours the sky first purple, then a vibrant red-orange. A golden autumn morning straight out of a picture book. The tiredness disappears completely as we leave the motorway and drive through the countryside on country roads. Wisps of mist hang in the valleys and early frost glistens on the meadows. We are certain: this is going to be a good day!
Meadows, forests and rocksDo we tick like the Celts?
The Via Celtica is a spiritual hiking trail. Although it is not clear whether the Celts lived in this region, hikers can gain an insight into their world here. Natural phenomena are a recurring anchor point: green meadows, babbling springs, the River Eder meandering through the landscape, forests and rocky landscapes. For the Celts, natural sites were sacred places. For us, they are ideal places to simply pause for a moment and forget about everyday life.
On trails through the Wittgenstein countrysideA day off
We are particularly enthusiastic about the varied paths. Forest paths, meadow paths, directly along the water or high above the river. We pass horses, cows and the occasional sheep pasture. It goes uphill and downhill. And here and there we even have to climb over obstacles. Again and again we are rewarded with spectacular views, which we could have enjoyed even more if it weren't for the many bare hills due to the dying spruce trees. On the high trail, which runs parallel to the Eder, we are suddenly surprised! "Look, a cave!" She can't resist climbing a little way in and taking at least a quick look at the large hole in the rock face.
Up on the castle hillThe last ascent
The almost 15-kilometre circular trail is well signposted. Steep sections are perfect for clearing your head. The last ascent goes up the Burgberg. Here, where a Celtic castle once stood, the remains of which are barely visible today, we take a final break and let the cool autumn wind blow in our faces before heading back down the mountain towards the car park.
Highlights off the route, moments of happiness for in-between and all the senses. Keep your eyes peeled, you shouldn't miss these places on your hike through the Wittgensteiner Land region.
Our favourite places
- Ground fridges: It's worth taking a look at the ground in two places along the hiking trail. Because cool drinks are hidden in the ground here. Earth fridges and wooden benches with a guaranteed view invite you to take a long break.
- Place by the river: Whether you choose to listen to the rushing of the river on the banks of the Eder or take an afternoon break at the Gasthof zum Bahnhof with a view of the water - either way, we recommend a break by the river.
- Bad Berleburg: If you still have energy after the hike or are staying longer than a day, you should make a detour to the centre of Bad Berleburg - with a walk through the old town and a visit to the castle.
