Attractions and Places To See around Kreis Olpe - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Kreis Olpe include a diverse range of natural landscapes, cultural sites, and notable landmarks within the Sauerland region of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The area is characterized by its reservoirs, such as Biggesee and Listertalsperre, and extensive natural parks like the Sauerland Rothaargebirge Nature Park. Visitors can explore historical sites, observation towers, and a network of hiking and cycling trails. The region offers a variety of experiences, from exploring dripstone caves to visiting museums and enjoying water sports.
Best attractions and places to see around Kreis Olpe
- The most popular attractions is Wegeringhauser Tunnel, a cycle_way that is closed from November to mid-April to protect hibernating bat species. At 724 meters, it is the second longest bicycle tunnel in Germany.
- Another must-see spot is Biggesee, a lake. This large reservoir offers opportunities for various activities, including water sports, cycling, and relaxation along its shores.
- Visitors also love View of the Biggesee, a viewpoint. This spot offers one of the most beautiful perspectives of the Biggestausee, with benches available for a short rest.
- Kreis Olpe is known for its reservoirs, historical sites, and extensive network of hiking and cycling trails. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from natural features to cultural institutions.
- The attractions around Kreis Olpe are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2100 upvotes and over 390 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
View of the Biggesee
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Lister Dam
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In the years 2020 to 2022, the wall on the water side, which is stressed by the fluctuating water level, was renovated in three construction phases. In order to clear a four-meter-wide strip below the crown for work, the Lister Dam had to be lowered by 4.50 meters at a time. In this area, all joints could be chiseled out and loose stones could be anchored or replaced. After repointing and sandblasting, the character of the quarry stone masonry can be clearly seen again. A total of 30 kilometers of wall joints on both sides of the wall were treated in this way, which strengthened the Lister dam for decades to come.
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Biggeblick Viewing Platform
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Waldenburger Bay Beach on the Biggesee
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Kückelheim Tunnel (Bat Tunnel)
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Sauerlandring Rail Trail
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Bench with a view of Biggesee
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Wegeringhauser Tunnel
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Wendener Hütte — Ironworks and Museum
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Rhein-Weser Tower
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Tips from the Community
Railway lines are always great, often a relaxing cycle.
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It's a very nicely laid out bike path. Great, we really enjoyed it. Top
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A great place to rest with 🔝 a view of the lake
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A beautiful spot with a wonderful view over the lake
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One of the most beautiful viewpoints of the Biggestausee. Two benches practically call for a short rest.
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A place that is really suitable for a break. Great view over the reservoir.
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From mid-2007 to early 2009, the dam was completely renovated. Among other things, cracks and joints in the masonry had to be repaired, the roadway and railings had to be renewed and the arches of the flood relief had to be repaired. For the duration of the work, the top of the wall, the parking lot at the dam and the toilet facilities were closed to visitors. The renovation work, particularly on the railings and arches, has permanently changed the appearance of the dam.[8] In the years 2020 to 2022, the wall on the water side, which is stressed by the fluctuating water level, was renovated in three construction phases. In order to clear a four-meter-wide strip below the crown for work, the Lister Dam had to be lowered by 4.50 meters at a time. In this area, all joints could be chiseled out and loose stones could be anchored or replaced. After repointing and sandblasting, the character of the quarry stone masonry can be clearly seen again. A total of 30 kilometers of wall joints on both sides of the wall were treated in this way, which strengthened the Lister dam for decades to come.
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The planning for the construction of the Listertalsperre goes back to the Ruhrtalsperreverein (RTV), founded in 1899, which had set itself the task of supplying water to the rapidly growing Ruhr area. Government master builder Ernst Link and construction director of the RTV had assessed the Listertal as particularly suitable when looking for other suitable locations for the construction of a dam. His report from 1905 was soon followed by the founding of the Lister Dam Cooperative, which tackled the construction of the dam with the financial support of the RTV. The ground-breaking ceremony took place on September 13, 1909, and almost three years later, on July 5, 1913, the ceremonial inauguration took place by director Kluge from Braunschweig, the head of the cooperative
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Kreis Olpe?
Kreis Olpe is rich in natural beauty, centered around the interconnected Biggesee and Listertalsperre reservoirs, which are ideal for water sports, cycling, and relaxation. You can also visit the View of the Biggesee or the Bench with a view of Biggesee for stunning vistas. The region is also home to the fascinating Atta-Höhle dripstone cave in Attendorn and is part of the expansive Sauerland Rothaargebirge Nature Park.
Are there any historical or cultural sites worth visiting in Kreis Olpe?
Yes, Kreis Olpe offers several historical and cultural attractions. You can explore the impressive 13th-century Schloss Berghausen or wander through the historic town center of Attendorn with its half-timbered houses. The region also boasts the Museumslandschaft Kreis Olpe, a network of over 20 museums, including the Wendener Hütte — Ironworks and Museum, an almost 300-year-old ironworks.
What activities are available for families with children in Kreis Olpe?
Families visiting Kreis Olpe have many options. Popular choices include the PanoramaPark Sauerland Wildpark and the Monkey & Bird Park Eckenhagen, both offering animal encounters and leisure activities. The Galileo-Park in Lennestadt-Meggen, housed in the 'Sauerland Pyramids,' provides interactive knowledge and puzzle exhibitions. Additionally, the Freizeitbad Olpe is a public swimming pool for recreation.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in Kreis Olpe?
Kreis Olpe is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy extensive hiking and cycling on well-maintained trails like the Rothaarsteig or the Sauerlandring Rail Trail. Water sports are popular on the Biggesee and Listertalsperre, including boat tours with the Personenschifffahrt Biggesee. For more specific routes, explore the Cycling around Kreis Olpe or Road Cycling Routes around Kreis Olpe guides.
Are there any observation towers or viewpoints offering panoramic views?
Absolutely! For breathtaking panoramic views, visit the Biggeblick Viewing Platform, which offers a fantastic perspective over the Biggesee and its dam. Other notable towers include the Rhein-Weser-Turm and Aussichtsturm Hohe Bracht, both providing expansive views of the Sauerland landscape.
When is the best time to visit Kreis Olpe for outdoor activities?
The best time for outdoor activities in Kreis Olpe generally spans from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant for hiking, cycling, and water sports on the reservoirs. However, some attractions like the Wegeringhauser Tunnel are closed from November to mid-April to protect hibernating bats, so plan accordingly if these are on your list.
Can I cycle through the Kückelheimer and Wegeringhauser Tunnels?
Yes, the Kückelheim Tunnel (Bat Tunnel) and Wegeringhauser Tunnel are part of the popular SauerlandRadring cycling route. However, it's important to note that these former railway tunnels are closed seasonally, typically from late October to early April, to provide a safe hibernation environment for bat populations.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Kreis Olpe?
Visitors to Kreis Olpe frequently praise the stunning natural scenery, especially the views over the Biggesee. Many appreciate the well-maintained trails for cycling and hiking, and the tranquility of spots like the Bench with a view of Biggesee. The blend of natural beauty with historical sites and family-friendly activities makes the region appealing to a wide range of interests.
Are there opportunities for water activities on the Biggesee and Listertalsperre?
Yes, the Biggesee and Listertalsperre are central to water-based recreation. You can enjoy boat tours on the Biggesee with the Personenschifffahrt Biggesee, or simply relax by the water at places like the Waldenburger Bay Beach on the Biggesee. The reservoirs are popular for various water sports and offer scenic routes for cycling and walking along their shores.
Are there any specific hiking trails recommended in the area?
Kreis Olpe offers a wide array of hiking trails, including quality and premium routes. Popular options include sections of the Rothaarsteig, Sauerland-Höhenflug, and local paths like the Veischeder-Sonnenpfad. For more detailed hiking routes, you can explore the Cycling around Kreis Olpe guide, which also features paths suitable for walking.
Can I visit the Lister Dam itself?
Yes, the Lister Dam is a notable structure and a point of interest. It has undergone significant renovations to maintain its integrity and appearance. You can walk along the dam and appreciate the engineering marvel, which separates the Listersee from the Biggesee, offering unique views of both reservoirs.
Are there any winter sports opportunities in Kreis Olpe?
While primarily known for its summer activities, Kreis Olpe does offer some winter sports options. The Skigebiet Olpe-Fahlenscheid is a local ski resort where you can enjoy skiing and other winter activities when conditions allow.
Most popular routes around Kreis Olpe
Most popular attractions around Kreis Olpe
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