The Willinger Loop

Popular circular hike in the Diemelsee Nature Park, Hesse. This circular hike organised by the German Hiking Youth starts at the train station in Willingen. From there, you walk through the town with its numerous cafés and shops to the Willingen tourist information centre by the lagoon pool and the ice rink. From there, you follow the hiking trail towards Stryck and soon reach the world's largest ski jump "Mühlenkopfschanze" (www.weltcupschanze-willingen.de). You can reach the inrun tower by funicular railway or on foot. Take the lift up to the top of the tower to experience the unique view of the valley and feel like a ski jumper. You now follow the W6 markings slowly uphill through the idyllic Ittertal valley with two inviting rest areas. You change to the Upland trail X15 and reach a path to the Uplandsteig. The route now heads straight up the hill to the Toten, a fork in the path. Shortly afterwards, you reach the Hillekopfhütte with a rest area at an altitude of 788 metres. This is a favourite resting place for Uplandsteig, Rothaarsteig and Sauerland-Höhen hikers. At this altitude, the route continues through the forest to the next rest area at the Streithütte. Now follow the W6 markings to the Hochheideturm tower. From here you have a marvellous view over the highlands and the adventure playground invites you to relax or try out your skills on the two small climbing rocks. After resting, you can slowly walk down the heath. In July, you can eat blueberries straight from the bush up here! You return to the starting point, the tourist information centre, along the cable car and across meadows. A detour to the Willingen Wildlife Park (www.wildpark-willingen.de) is definitely worthwhile. Tip: The day can end either in a sporty way (summer toboggan run, climbing hall, adventure golf) or in a cosy way (lagoon) in Willingen (www.freizeitwelt-willingen.de). Willingen Youth Hostel (www.willingen.jugendherberge.de) is the starting point for numerous hikes and excursions. Highlights of the hike: - Mühlenkopf ski jump - Tower head - Hillekopf hut - High Heath Tower - Detour to Willingen Wildlife Park (optional)