Discover Arpe

Arpe combines a family-friendly interactive circular trail with hiking paths, church history and regional traditions. The pilgrimage on foot to Werl is part of village and church life; the small branch church of St. Anthony adds a distinctive building to this cultural focus. This gives you different ways to plan your stay: get active on the trails, explore the history of the village, or do both.

Hiking trails with different highlights

The Hardt Adventure Trail Arpe is an approximately 2.5 km circular trail with a variety of interactive activity stations. Test your coordination, imagination and stamina along the way. The trail passes through sections of woodland and meadows, rocky areas and slopes alongside a stream valley. Its length, activity stations and landscapes give families practical points of reference when planning a walk together.

The circular trail around Arpe (AR2) offers a different focus: it starts in Arpe, heads towards Herschede, passes Silberg on the way to Keppel, and then returns to Arpe. The starting point is at the hiking information board opposite Gasthof Voss. After climbing to Herschede and reaching Silberg, you can enjoy many beautiful views. While the Hardt Adventure Trail focuses on interactive stations and scenery, the AR2 route is shaped by its named waypoints and viewpoints.

Other routes can also be distinguished by their itineraries. The Myths Trail (MW) runs from Berghausen via Niederberndorf to Arpe. Lauschpohl Tour 1 starts in Arpe, runs via Keppel and Silberg past various Lauschpohl stations to Herschede, and then returns to Arpe. The starting point for the Lauschpöhle in Arpe is marked by an information board about the Lauschpöhle in Hawerland. Bus route 345 runs through Arpe; you can use the “Arpe” bus stop to reach the starting point of the AR2. Check the timetable before you travel.

Church, Pilgrimage and Regional Cuisine

The pilgrimage on foot from Arpe to Werl became a traditional part of church and village life in Arpe. The branch church of St. Anthony was built in the Renaissance style. Its exact age is unknown; it may date from around 1650. It was renovated in 2015. In front of the church is a group of figures depicting St. Anthony with pigs, known as “Fickeltünnes.” The architecture, uncertain age and group of figures offer different ways to explore Arpe’s cultural history.

At Gasthof Voss in Arpe, regional specialities and seasonal dishes are always freshly prepared. If you plan to stop for a meal, check the latest opening details before your visit.

More to explore in Schmallenberg

Schmallenberg has its own cultural and natural attractions. The old town has a cohesive Neoclassical architectural character and many restored half-timbered houses. A historical town tour offers insights into Schmallenberg’s history and introduces local figures such as the Floigenkasper and the Breybalg. Check current dates or booking options if you would like to join the tour. In Schmallenberg-Latrop, the Forestry Museum displays historical tools, pictures of life in the forest and village in the past, forestry records, and information on the development of the chainsaw.

Families can enjoy an approximately three-kilometre adventure trail in Schmallenberg, with 13 stations about forests, animals, wood and birds. Cyclists can also explore a regional theme: the 84-kilometre Sauerland Cycle Ring connects Finnentrop, Eslohe, Schmallenberg and Lennestadt and follows former railway lines. In Schmallenberg-Latrop, the Forestry Workers’ and Foresters’ Trail runs for 4.5 kilometres and has 17 stations on topics such as forest ecology and the use of timber.

If you’re mainly interested in Arpe’s trails, church and pilgrimage, focus your search on Arpe. If you’re also planning to visit the old town or attractions in Latrop, include Schmallenberg as a separate destination in your comparison.

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