Sauerland-Tourismus e.V. / Paul Masukowitz/ REACT-EU

Way of St. James through the heart of the Sauerland

Pilgrimage on the Way of St. James - from Marsberg and Korbach to Cologne

The Sauerland-Camino is an impressive section of the European Way of St. James network. It begins in Korbach or Marsberg and leads through the scenic Sauerland region to Meinerzhagen - from there it continues to the cathedral city of Cologne, an important stage destination on the way to Santiago de Compostela. This pilgrimage route through North Rhine-Westphalia not only offers spiritual experiences, but also unique natural and cultural landscapes. As part of Europe's cultural heritage, the route connects people across borders in a spirit of faith, peace and international understanding.

Feel European history - the Sauerland-Camino and the pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela

As early as 1987, the Council of Europe recognized the special significance of the Camino de Santiago for the development of Europe in the "Déclaration de Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle". They are regarded as cultural routes of Europe and stand for values such as tolerance, freedom, respect and solidarity. The Sauerland-Camino picks up on this European idea and invites you to embark on a decelerating journey with deep cultural and spiritual value.

Historical paths in the Sauerland: Roman Way & Heidenstraße

Two traditional routes cross the Sauerland and form the basis of the Sauerland-Camino:

  • The old Roman path leads from Paderborn via Marsberg to Elspe.
  • The Heidenstraße comes from Leipzig and continues via Elspe and Meinerzhagen to Cologne.

These historic paths combine past and present and make pilgrimage in the Sauerland a special experience for beginners and experienced pilgrims alike.

Pilgrim-friendly accommodation and services in the Sauerland

There are numerous partner businesses along the Sauerland-Camino that are specially adapted to the needs of pilgrims. From simple hostels to comfortable guesthouses - there is suitable accommodation for every stage.

Pilgrim's pass? No problem! Simply order online at:
👉 https://shop.jakobsweg.de/produkt-schlagwort/pilgerpass

Antje Zimmermann from weltenkundler.com has written a particularly nice experience report on the Sauerland-Camino - just take a look and be inspired!

Sauerland-Camino - Roman Way and Heidenstraße

Roman Way of St. James: Marsberg to Elspe

Overnight tips, pilgrim hostels and further information on the two main routes

A couple enjoys the sunset with a view of Marsberg.
Spend the night on the Camino
Overnight accommodation in our hostels on the Sauerland-Camino.
Two female hikers on the Sauerland-Waldroute at sunset.
Römerweg Paderborn-Elspe
Link to the Jakobusfreunde Paderborn with further information on the old Roman path from Paderborn to Elspe.
Sunset over Sauerland landscape in spring.
Heidenstraße Korbach-Marienheide
Link to the LWL Antiquities Commission with further information on the Heidenstraße.

Further tips and ideas on pilgrimage and spirituality

Sunrise on the Krutenberg in summer.
Sauerland-Seelenorte
These 42 special places show the cultural and natural wealth of the Sauerland.
Wisps of mist over the autumnal forest.
Spiritual summer
An annual series of events with offers that take a little speed out of everyday life.
A couple taking a break in a refuge on the Rothaarsteig long-distance hiking trail.
Spiritual theme trails in the Sauerland
In addition to the Sauerland-Camino, there are also shorter pilgrimage routes in the Sauerland region

Werl pilgrimage

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