Discover Augustdorf: Senne, dunes and local history

Augustdorf is a municipality in the district of Lippe in North Rhine-Westphalia. It lies at the transition between the Teutoburg Forest and the open Senne. Heathland, sand dunes, stream valleys and forests shape the landscape, creating varied impressions of open areas and wooded stretches.

Trails through the Senne, heathland and forest

The Augustdorf Dune Trail is an approximately six-kilometre circular route through Senne dunes, heathland, pine forest and open areas. Rare plants and animals can be spotted along the way. Information boards are provided at both starting points.

The Augustdorf Circular Trail is an approximately 20-kilometre loop marked with an O. It passes through the Senne, a landscape of heathland, moorland and forests on sandy soil. The trail is fully signposted; as markers may require regular maintenance, it is worth keeping an eye out for the trail signs as you go. The loop can be reached from Detmold on bus route 390 towards Pollmannskrug Augustdorf. Check the timetable before travelling, as routes and times may change.

The seven-kilometre Furlbach Trail follows the Furlbach stream, offering views of the water and old beech trees along its banks. Its scenic highlights include small bogs, heathland, sandy areas and a paddock with Senner horses. Augustdorf access points are at the Augustdorf sports ground and near Augustdorf West. Check local access conditions before setting out, as they may change.

Designated riding trails are also available: routes through the Augustdorf dune field, the Furlbach Valley and the Sennerandweg (Lönspfad) form part of regional and supraregional riding trail networks. Nature conservation rules or temporary closures may affect access; check the latest conditions before setting out on a ride. The Dünensilhouette viewing platform can be reached directly via Kohlenweg 20. Parking is available at the Heidehaus or at Nord-West-Ring/Industriestraße. Check local traffic arrangements before travelling, as they may change.

Local history and the wider Lippe region

Augustdorf's settlement history dates back to the late 18th century. A settlement developed at Dören; in 1789, the village was named in honour of Count Simon August. The Kötterhaus at Haustenbecker Straße 107, also known as Rühlmannstätte, is one of the last surviving Kötter houses from the late 18th century. It documents the rural building tradition of its time and adds an example of this architectural style to the story of the village.

Across the wider Lippe destination, the hiking trail network covers around 2,000 kilometres. It includes a section of European long-distance path E1, as well as the award-winning Hermannshöhen and Hansaweg trails. Lippe also has seven historic town centres characterised by Renaissance buildings; the Externsteine are a cultural and natural monument in the heart of Lippe.

Plan your stay

Trail lengths range from the approximately six-kilometre Dune Trail and the seven-kilometre Furlbach Trail to the roughly 20-kilometre loop. This range can help you decide what kind of hike you are looking for. You can then tailor your accommodation search to the experiences that interest you most in Augustdorf.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Extertal, Hörstmar, Lügde, Leopoldshöhe, Detmold, Lage, Schlangen, Rott.

Return to the wider travel guide: Lippe.