W6 Willingen and the Hochheiden Plateau

This loop guides hikers into the rolling highlands of the Diemelsee Nature Park, setting out near the visitor center in Willingen. The trail climbs through quiet woodland passages before reaching the open expanse of the Hochheide plateau, the largest mountain heathland in North-West Germany. Rare ice-age survivors like crooked mountain birches and heather frame the wide paths, offering a distinct subarctic feel. Moving across the ridges leads past the towering Hochheideturm on the Ettelsberg, where sweeping vistas open toward the surrounding peaks. Gentle descents lead back along the valley, passing near local wildlife enclosures.