Sightseeing
Discover the highlights of Lipperland
The Köterberg: The Rooftop of Lipperland
Standing at 495 meters, the Köterberg is the proud summit of the Lippe Uplands and a magnet for panorama enthusiasts. Easily recognizable by its prominent telecommunications tower, the 'Monte Wau-Wau' offers an unparalleled view across up to seven German federal states on clear days.
The mountain is a legendary meeting point, especially popular with motorcyclists and hikers. The winding roads leading to the top are rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree vista stretching from the Weser Uplands to the Harz Mountains. Whether for a break at the mountain inn or as a destination for an extensive tour, the Köterberg combines a sense of freedom with the most breathtaking views in the region.
- Monument
- Lippe
- Culture
Schiedersee: The Blue Heart of the Emmer Valley
The Schiedersee, also known as the Emmerstausee, is a premier leisure destination in the Lippe region, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Surrounded by rolling hills, this expansive reservoir attracts nature lovers and families alike. Whether you're strolling along the scenic lakeside promenade, exploring the circular hiking trails, or enjoying a boat trip on the water, the lake provides a refreshing escape from everyday life.
For families, the 'Funtastico' adventure park offers endless fun, while the lakeside terraces invite you to linger and enjoy the view. From water sports to peaceful sunsets, Schiedersee is a versatile gem for everyone seeking recreation in the great outdoors.
- Lake
- Lippe
- Relaxing
Brake Castle
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Lemgo, Brake Castle stands as a magnificent jewel of the Weser Renaissance. This striking moated castle, with its iconic and far-reaching tower, tells the story of the glorious era of the Counts of Lippe and captivates visitors with its unique architectural style.
Today, the castle houses the Weser Renaissance Museum, taking guests on a fascinating journey back to the 16th and 17th centuries. Whether strolling along the scenic moat or exploring the exquisite exhibits, the estate perfectly blends historical elegance with vibrant cultural heritage—a true highlight for history enthusiasts and families alike.
- Monument
- Lemgo
- Culture
Externsteine
Deep in the heart of the Teutoburg Forest, the Externsteine rise like petrified giants from the earth. This striking sandstone formation near Horn-Bad Meinberg is one of Europe’s most impressive natural and cultural landmarks. For millennia, these mystic rocks have captivated visitors—whether as a prehistoric cult site, a medieval hermitage, or a place for fascinating astronomical observations.
Visitors can climb the steep steps to enjoy spectacular views over the Lipperland or marvel at the famous medieval descent from the cross relief. Surrounded by a serene nature reserve and shimmering ponds, the Externsteine offer a unique atmosphere full of magic and history.
- Monument
- Horn-Bad Meinberg
- Culture
Vogelpark Heiligenkirchen
Vogelpark Heiligenkirchen, nestled at the foot of the Hermann Monument, is a paradise for animal lovers and families. Set within beautifully landscaped gardens, the park is home to over 1,000 birds and mammals from all over the world—ranging from vibrantly colored parrots to majestic birds of prey.
What makes this park truly special is the 'up-close' experience: in the walk-through aviaries, friendly parakeets and macaws often land right on visitors' shoulders. Beyond the impressive world of birds, the charming meerkats and kangaroos are always a crowd favorite. With its large adventure playground and personal atmosphere, the park is the ideal destination for explorers wanting to experience nature and animals firsthand.
- Relaxing
- Detmold
- Animal Park
Detmold Castle
Detmold Castle, situated in the heart of the historic old town, is a magnificent example of the Weser Renaissance and serves as the ancestral seat of the Princely House of Lippe. Its impressive four-winged architecture, characterized by ornate gables and a grand courtyard, reflects centuries of noble power and cultural influence. Unlike many other fortresses, the castle has remained largely unscathed by wars, preserving its authentic splendor.
Inside, visitors can explore opulent halls adorned with rare tapestries, exquisite porcelain, and period furniture. Surrounded by a picturesque moat and a lush park, the castle offers a regal atmosphere that transports guests back to the era of courtly life. It remains a living piece of history and a cultural landmark of the former residential city.
- Monument
- Detmold
- Culture
The Hermannsdenkmal
Majestically overlooking the Teutoburg Forest near Detmold, the Hermannsdenkmal stands as one of Germany's most iconic landmarks. This colossal copper statue commemorates the Cheruscan chieftain Arminius and the legendary Battle of the Teutoburg Forest in 9 AD. Reaching a height of over 53 meters, 'Hermann' is not only a historical monument but also a masterpiece of 19th-century engineering.
Visitors who climb the circular sandstone gallery are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Lipperland. Surrounded by scenic hiking trails, the monument perfectly blends monumental architecture with natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
- Monument
- Detmold
- Culture
Falkenburg Castle (Detmold)
The Falkenburg near Detmold-Berlebeck is one of the most historically significant ruins in the region. Once the ancestral seat of the Lords of Lippe, this fortress stood impregnable atop the mountain until it fell into ruin following a siege in the 15th century. For centuries, nature reclaimed the site, but in recent years, archaeologists have painstakingly excavated its impressive walls, towers, and cellars.
Today, the ruins are a fascinating destination for hikers. Those who make the climb are rewarded with some of the most stunning views over the Teutoburg Forest. Information boards on-site bring the medieval past back to life, making the Falkenburg a place where the very beginnings of Lippe’s history become tangible.
- Monument
- Detmold
- Culture
Palais-Garden Detmold
The Palaisgarten Detmold is a true oasis of tranquility and ranks among the most beautiful parklands in the region. Originally designed in the 19th century as a private retreat for the Princely House of Lippe, the garden captivates today with its magnificent collection of exotic trees and expansive scenic vistas.
Visitors stroll between splashing fountains and historic cascades, which lend the park an almost Mediterranean elegance. Located directly adjacent to the grand Palais, the grounds offer a fascinating display of colors in every season—from delicate cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant autumn foliage. It is the perfect place for relaxation and scenic walks in the heart of the residential city.
- Monument
- Detmold
- Culture
Hexenbürgermeisterhaus
The Hexenbürgermeisterhaus (Witch Mayor's House) in Lemgo is one of the most architecturally significant townhouses of the Weser Renaissance. Its magnificent facade from 1571, featuring a richly decorated bay window, immediately captivates visitors. However, the beautiful exterior hides a dark past: its name refers to the notorious Mayor Hermann Cothmann, who ruthlessly spearheaded the witch trials in the 17th century.
Today, the house serves as a modern museum chronicling Lemgo’s history. From the grim era of the witch hunts to the town's prosperous days as a Hanseatic city, it offers profound insights into centuries of urban life. It is a fascinating site that uniquely blends stunning architecture with gripping historical narratives.
- Monument
- Lemgo
- Culture
Strate Private Brewery
The Strate Private Brewery in Detmold is not only famous for its premium beers but is also celebrated as one of the most beautiful breweries in Germany. Housed in an imposing Wilhelminian-style brick building, the brewery is a place where passion and tradition bring the art of brewing to life. Managed today by the third generation of women, it combines artisanal quality with a warm, welcoming family atmosphere.
For those wanting to take a look behind the scenes, the popular brewery tours are a must. From the milling of the malt to the finished 'Detmolder' beer, you will learn everything about the brewing process and can taste the specialties directly on-site. Whether as part of a cozy brewery evening or an informative guided tour, the combination of historic ambiance and Lippe hospitality makes every visit an unforgettable experience for all the senses.
- Beverage
- Detmold
- Culture
Safariland Stukenbrock
Safariland Stukenbrock offers a unique combination of wildlife adventure and theme park excitement that is one of a kind in Germany. The heart of the park is the extensive drive-through safari, where visitors can travel in their own cars or the safari bus to get up close to exotic animals like lions, giraffes, and antelopes—much like the African savannah. The park is especially world-renowned for its rare white lions and white tigers.
Beyond the safari, a vast amusement area awaits with numerous attractions: from thrilling rides and water slides to captivating live shows and indoor playgrounds. For those looking to stay longer, the Safari Resort offers the chance to sleep in modern lodges right next to the animal enclosures. It is the perfect destination for an unforgettable family getaway filled with thrills and nature encounters.
- Relaxing
- Schloss-Holte Stukenbrock
- Animal Park
Olderdissen Animal Park
The Olderdissen Animal Park in Bielefeld is a beloved destination that combines wildlife conservation with a relaxed natural atmosphere. What makes this park truly special is its accessibility: it offers free admission. Home to over 450 animals from around 90 native species—including wolves, bears, lynx, and owls—the park provides a unique opportunity to observe local wildlife in spacious, near-natural enclosures.
Whether you're exploring the sprawling hiking trails, enjoying the large adventure playground, or visiting the petting zoo, Olderdissen is the perfect getaway for families and nature enthusiasts alike. It’s a place where education meets recreation, nestled beautifully on the edge of the Teutoburg Forest.
- Relaxing
- Bielefeld
- Animal Park