Cologne District
Kreis DürenHürtgenwaldSt. Apollonia in Großhau
Cologne District
Kreis DürenHürtgenwaldSt. Apollonia in Großhau
Highlight • Religious Site
Cycling
4.8
(47)
Hiking
5.0
(1)
St. Apollonia in Großhau is a Roman Catholic parish church located in the heart of Großhau, a district within the municipality of Hürtgenwald in the Düren district of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Standing at an elevation of 381 meters, this religious building is not only a place of worship but also a significant historical site, deeply intertwined with the tumultuous history of the Hürtgenwald region.
Visitors are particularly drawn to the church's remarkable story of resilience, having been rebuilt multiple times…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
July 15, 2024
Cycling
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near St. Apollonia in Großhau
4.5
(28)
181
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(27)
138
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
32
riders
145km
09:29
1,890m
1,880m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 380 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Sunday 29 March
7°C
2°C
69 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Parking is generally available directly in the village of Großhau. As the church is located in the middle of the village, you can often find street parking nearby. However, during peak hiking seasons or on weekends, spaces might fill up quickly. Arriving earlier in the day is advisable to secure a spot, especially if you plan to embark on a longer hike.
No, generally, no specific hiking permits are required for recreational hiking on the public trails around Großhau or within the Hürtgenwald region. The trails are freely accessible. However, always respect local regulations, stay on marked paths, and be mindful of private property.
The terrain around Großhau and in the Hürtgenwald varies. You can find a mix of easy, relatively flat walking paths suitable for families, as well as more challenging routes with moderate elevation changes. The area is characterized by forests, rolling hills, and some historical sites, offering diverse landscapes. Many trails are well-maintained forest paths, but some might involve uneven surfaces or steeper sections.
Yes, St. Apollonia itself is a historical site that can be interesting for families, especially with its war-damaged tower cock. For outdoor activities, there are many family-friendly walks and easier hiking routes in the Hürtgenwald. Look for shorter, well-marked circular trails with minimal elevation gain to ensure an enjoyable experience for all ages.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the hiking trails around Großhau and in the Hürtgenwald. It is common practice and often required to keep dogs on a leash, especially in forested areas, near wildlife, or when encountering other hikers. Always clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the area.
Großhau is connected by local bus services. You can typically reach Großhau via bus lines from larger nearby towns like Düren. It's recommended to check the current bus schedules and routes from your starting location, as services might be less frequent on weekends or holidays.
Großhau is a small village, but you may find local eateries or guesthouses. For a wider selection of cafes, pubs, and accommodation, you might need to venture to slightly larger neighboring towns within the Hürtgenwald municipality or towards Düren. It's advisable to check availability and opening hours in advance, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
Beyond St. Apollonia's own historical significance, the entire Hürtgenwald region is rich in WWII history. You can find various memorials, bunkers, and remnants of the intense battles fought here, such as the Hemingway-Trail which commemorates the presence of Ernest Hemingway during the fighting. Exploring these sites offers a deeper understanding of the area's past.
The Hürtgenwald offers numerous scenic viewpoints, especially from higher elevations, providing panoramic views over the forested landscape. While specific named viewpoints might require a bit of hiking, the natural beauty of the dense forests, valleys, and streams themselves are significant natural features to enjoy. Look for trails that lead to ridge lines or clearings for the best vistas.
Winter hiking around St. Apollonia and in the Hürtgenwald can be a beautiful experience, especially after snowfall, offering a tranquil atmosphere. However, trails can become icy or muddy, and daylight hours are shorter. It's crucial to wear appropriate winter gear, including sturdy, waterproof boots, and to check weather forecasts before heading out. Some facilities or smaller eateries might have reduced hours during the off-season.