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Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia

Kreis Lippe

Attractions and Places To See in Kreis Lippe - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see in Kreis Lippe include a rich tapestry of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This region is characterized by the forested ranges of the Teutoburg Forest and Eggegebirge, offering diverse landscapes. It features significant monuments and rock formations alongside open-air museums and historic towns.

Best attractions and places to see in Kreis Lippe

  • The most popular attractions is Externsteine, a natural monument that is a distinctive sandstone rock formation in the Teutoburg Forest. These tall, narrow columns of rock rise abruptly from wooded hills and are considered one of Germany's most important natural and cultural monuments.
  • Another must-see spot is Hermann Monument, a man-made monument commemorating the Cherusci war chief Arminius. Standing at over 50 meters tall, it is the tallest statue in Germany and offers panoramic views from its base.
  • Visitors also love The Falkenburg, a castle ruin situated on a strategically favorable hilltop. This historical site was built from 1194 and can be visited on pre-booked tours.
  • Kreis Lippe is known for its historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to expansive open-air museums and scenic hiking trails.
  • The attractions in Kreis Lippe are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1800 highlights, over 10000 photos, and nearly 10000 upvotes.

Last updated: April 24, 2026

Externsteine

Highlight • Natural Monument

One of the highlights on the Hermannsweg through the Teutoburg Forest is definitely the imposing Externsteine. They are among the most important natural and cultural monuments in the entire Teutoburg Forest. But myths and legends also haunt the Externsteine. If you are not afraid of heights, you can also climb the five rocks and enjoy a wide panoramic view.

Information and events around the Externsteine:
externsteine-info.de

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View of the Externsteine

Highlight • Natural Monument

The mystic Externsteine. Even the Teutons knew what is "beautiful". :-)

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The Falkenburg

Highlight • Castle

The Falkenburg lies as a ruin on a strategically favorable hilltop above the Osing Pass, known as "Gauseköte". It was built from 1194. In 1453 a fire severely damaged the castle and the complex lost its importance when the moated castle in Detmold was expanded into the residence of the Lippe counts from 1528. After that the castle was used as a quarry. The ruins can only be visited on pre-booked tours.

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Lippische Velmerstot

Highlight • Summit

Once you get to the top, you will be rewarded with a fantastic view. You can linger, take a picnic and enjoy the peace and quiet.

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Hermann Monument

Highlight • Monument

The Hermann Monument commemorates the victory of the Germans under the leadership of Arminius the Cherusci about the Romans at 9 AD. Due to excavations is now believed that the battle took place much further north. The more than 50 meters high monument is visible from afar. It was built in the 1870s and is still a magnet for visitors. Right next to the monument is gastronomy.

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August 2025 – the Silberbach stream is barely recognizable anymore. If you're out with dogs and think you'll find the water here, you're in luck! Everything's overgrown and barely accessible! Perhaps it would be a good idea to organize the comments by year! The pictures shown here don't fit at all!

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Donoper Pond

Highlight • Lake

The Donoper pond is a highlight for photographers and photo enthusiasts alike. Nature lovers "color lovers" are also at the right place here.

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Werre Cycle Path

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

A tar / gravel road along the river Werre to get from Herford to Bad Salzuflen or from Bad Salzuflen to Herford. Often you can see canoeists on the water or nature lovers on the shore picnic. Two bridges over the water invite you to "briefly enjoy the view".

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Eggegebirge ridge

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

The expression "harrow" is a general Low German term for elongated ridges or ridges; The linguistic counterpart is the "Siepen / Siefen / Seifen" (for the notch valleys accompanying the harrows). Until the 17th century, the Eggegebirge together with the northwestern Teutoburg Forest bore the name Osning.

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Knickenhagen Heath

Highlight • Natural

Beautiful in August and September when the heather is in bloom. Wonderful, rooted paths run through the middle.

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Hiking Collection by

Anette

Tips from the Community

Wir gehen wandern...
August 27, 2025, Silberbach in Silberbachtal

August 2025 – the Silberbach stream is barely recognizable anymore. If you're out with dogs and think you'll find the water here, you're in luck! Everything's overgrown and barely accessible! Perhaps it would be a good idea to organize the comments by year! The pictures shown here don't fit at all!

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David
August 10, 2025, Werre Cycle Path

Very nice cycle path where you can also take a break.

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Rolli
June 27, 2023, Werre Cycle Path

A great route along the Werre

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Always worth a recommendation.

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dieterklaus
November 2, 2022, Werre Cycle Path

Very idyllic bike path along a dike

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Cycle path along the Werre, partly gravel or brittle asphalt. But beautiful nature.

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Michi LE
October 3, 2022, Hermannsdenkmal

Taking a picture without people is almost impossible

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Michi LE
October 3, 2022, Hermannsdenkmal

Taking a picture without people is difficult

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical landmarks can I explore in Kreis Lippe?

Kreis Lippe is rich in history. You can visit the iconic Hermann Monument, commemorating Arminius's victory in the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest. Another significant site is The Falkenburg, a medieval castle ruin offering pre-booked tours. Additionally, the Princely Residence Castle Detmold and Brake Castle (housing the Weser Renaissance Museum) provide insights into the region's past.

Are there natural attractions suitable for outdoor enthusiasts?

Absolutely. The region is home to the distinctive Externsteine, a sandstone rock formation in the Teutoburg Forest. You can also enjoy the panoramic views from Lippische Velmerstot, explore the serene Donoper Pond, or discover the beauty of the Silberbach Stream in Silberbachtal. The Eggegebirge ridge also offers great hiking opportunities.

What cultural sites should I visit in Kreis Lippe?

For a deep dive into local culture, the Detmold Open-air Museum is Germany's largest, showcasing over 100 historical buildings. In Lemgo, explore the Hexenbürgermeisterhaus, a museum detailing the infamous witch trials, or admire the intricate Karl Junker House. The historic Marktplatz Lemgo, with its ancient buildings and Gothic churches like St. Nicolai and St. Marien, also offers a glimpse into the region's heritage.

What family-friendly activities are available in Kreis Lippe?

Families can enjoy several attractions. The Hermann Monument is family-friendly, and climbing its base offers great views. The Externsteine are also popular, with the option to climb the rocks. Other options include the Adlerwarte Berlebeck, one of Europe's largest eagle sanctuaries, and the Vogelpark Heiligenkirchen, a bird park near Detmold. The Detmold Open-air Museum also engages children with historical crafts and farm animals.

Where can I go hiking in Kreis Lippe?

Kreis Lippe offers numerous hiking opportunities, especially within the Teutoburg Forest and Eggegebirge. The long-distance Hermannsweg hiking trail passes by both the Hermann Monument and the Externsteine. For easier walks, you can find routes like the Blueberry Route and Pivitker Water Path. Discover more hiking trails in the region on our Easy hikes in Kreis Lippe guide.

Are there cycling routes in the area?

Yes, Kreis Lippe is excellent for cycling. The Werre Cycle Path offers a pleasant ride along the river Werre, suitable for observing nature. Other popular routes include the Römer-Lippe Route and the Fürstenroute Lippe. You can find detailed cycling tours, including options around Schiedersee, on our Cycling in Kreis Lippe guide.

What are the best viewpoints in Kreis Lippe?

For stunning panoramic views, climb the base of the Hermann Monument. The Externsteine also offer wide vistas if you're not afraid of heights. The Lippische Velmerstot summit provides a fantastic, tranquil view, and the Eggegebirge ridge is another great spot for scenic overlooks.

What do visitors enjoy most about the Externsteine?

Visitors frequently highlight the unique sandstone formation and its historical significance. Many enjoy climbing the rocks for the panoramic views and appreciate the serene atmosphere, especially when reflected in the nearby lake. It's considered a significant natural and cultural monument, often referred to as the 'Stonehenge of Germany'.

How long does it typically take to visit the Hermann Monument?

A visit to the Hermann Monument can vary, but most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the monument itself, climbing to the viewing platform, and enjoying the surrounding area. There's also gastronomy nearby for refreshments.

Are there any spa towns or wellness options in Kreis Lippe?

Yes, Bad Salzuflen is a prominent spa town in North Rhine-Westphalia. It offers a variety of health and wellness options, including therapeutic brine springs and a graduation tower, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Can I find dog-friendly trails or attractions?

Many natural areas in Kreis Lippe are suitable for walks with dogs. The Donoper Pond, for instance, is listed as dog-friendly. When exploring trails in the Teutoburg Forest or Eggegebirge, always ensure dogs are kept on a leash where required and respect local regulations.

What is the best time of year to visit Kreis Lippe?

Kreis Lippe is beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying lakes like SchiederSee. Even in winter, places like Lippische Velmerstot offer a quiet and powerful destination.

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Most popular attractions in Kreis Lippe

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