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, a major stop on the way to Santiago de Compostela. This pilgrimage route through North Rhine-Westphalia offers not only spiritual experiences but also unique natural and cultural landscapes. As part of Europe’s cultural heritage, the route connects people across borders in the spirit of faith, peace, and international understanding.

Experience European History – The Sauerland Camino and the Pilgrims of St. James

As early as 1987, the Council of Europe recognized the special significance of the Way of St. James for the development of Europe in the “Déclaration de Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle.” These routes are considered cultural routes of Europe and embody values such as tolerance, freedom, respect, and solidarity. The Sauerland Camino takes up this European ideal and invites you to embark on a journey of reflection with deep cultural and spiritual value.

Historic Trails in the Sauerland: Roman Road & Heidenstraße

Two routes steeped in tradition traverse the Sauerland and form the basis of the Sauerland-Camino:

  • The ancient Roman Road ( ) leads from Marsberg to Elspe and on to Bonn.
  • The Heidenstraße starts in Leipzig and runs through Elspe and Meinerzhagen on to Cologne.

These historic trails bridge the past and the present, making pilgrimage in the Sauerland a special experience for beginners and experienced pilgrims alike.

Pilgrim-Friendly Accommodations and Services in the Sauerland

Along the Sauerland Camino, there are numerous partner establishments that are specifically tailored to the needs of pilgrims. Whether it’s a simple hostel or a comfortable guesthouse—there’s suitable lodging for every stage of the journey. Simply download the PDF file.

Herbergen Heidenstraße (Korbach -Meinerzhagen).pdf

 

Pilgrim’s passport? Noproblem! Just order it online at:
👉 Online orders through the Jakobusfreunde Paderborn

👉 Antje Zimmermann from weltenkundler.com has written a particularly lovely account of her experience on the Sauerland Camino—just take a look and get inspired!

Sauerland Camino - Roman Road and Heidenstraße

Roman Way of St. James: Marsberg to Elspe

Accommodation tips, pilgrim hostels, and more information about 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.

More tips and ideas on pilgrimages 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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