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Caves

Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia

Arnsberg District

Märkischer Kreis
Hemer

Echsenschacht, Laubschacht and Bärenhöhle

Discover
Places to see

Caves

Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia

Arnsberg District

Märkischer Kreis
Hemer

Echsenschacht, Laubschacht and Bärenhöhle

Highlight • Cave

Echsenschacht, Laubschacht and Bärenhöhle

Recommended by 198 hikers out of 203

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Naturpark Sauerland-Rothaargebirge

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    Location: Hemer, Märkischer Kreis, Arnsberg District, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

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    Best Hikes to Echsenschacht, Laubschacht and Bärenhöhle

    4.7

    (305)

    719

    hikers

    1. Bench at the Felsenmeer in Hemer – Felsenmeer (Hemer) loop from Deilinghofen

    8.02km

    02:06

    60m

    60m

    Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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    Moderate

    4.6

    (101)

    293

    hikers

    2. Felsenmeer (Hemer) – View of the Ruhr Area loop from Deilinghofen

    23.6km

    06:54

    640m

    640m

    Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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    Hard

    4.6

    (30)

    149

    hikers

    3. Felsenmeer (Hemer) loop from Oberhemer

    7.34km

    02:05

    160m

    160m

    Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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    Moderate

    Tips

    November 6, 2024

    In the extreme southeast of the GeoPark lies the Felsenmeer Hemer, a bizarre karst landscape that can be explored free of charge via a circular path with viewing platforms and panoramic bridges. Information boards provide the geological background.

    Translated by Google •

      February 22, 2024

      The Felsenmeer in Hemer, a unique natural monument in the Sauerland, combines natural history and cultural aspects in a fascinating way. The geological formation of this remarkable geotope dates back millions of years and is the result of the weathering of limestone through dissolution processes. Rainwater, enriched with carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, turns into a weak acid that dissolves limestone, forming the characteristic rock formations of the Felsenmeer. Over geological periods, the impressive landforms that are now known as the Sea of ​​Rocks emerged.

      This nature reserve is not only a prime example of the dynamic forces of earth's history, but also a place full of legends. One of the stories is about dwarves who searched for precious metals under the rocks and about giants who wanted to steal these treasures. The legendary dwarven king Alberich is said to have used a magic spell to cause the ceiling of the rock hall to collapse, which buried the giants under the rocks and created the sea of ​​rocks.

      Visitors can explore the Sea of ​​Rocks on various paths, including a wooden walkway that leads directly over the cliffs and rocks. There is also a viewing platform and an upper bridge that are barrier-free, allowing visitors with limited mobility to enjoy the nature reserve. Dogs are allowed on a leash, and there is a large, free parking lot at the neighboring Sauerland Park.

      The Felsenmeer Hemer is a special experience in every season, be it snowy, in the colorful autumn forest or in the lush green of summer. The cliffs and caves of the Felsenmeer are part of the impressive karst landscape, which visitors can explore in more detail on display boards. The recognition as a "Significant Geological Monument of Germany" and as a "National Geotope" underlines the unique significance of this natural monument and its position as one of Germany's outstanding natural wonders.

      Translated by Google •

        February 15, 2025

        Great karst and mining landscape. Best viewed when the trees have little or no leaves.

        Translated by Google •

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          Details

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          Elevation 280 m

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          Location: Hemer, Märkischer Kreis, Arnsberg District, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

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