In the Sauerland region you’ll find the appropriately named town of Winterberg. Translating to Winter Mountain, it’s a haven for some serious winter sports.
That’s not to say that if you visit any other season that you would be without anything to do, because besides sports there’s history, culture, and some interesting local cuisine to discover and enjoy.
One of the best historical sights in Winterberg is the 14th century Jacob US Church, but after a few fires it was rebuilt in 1801.
In the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries the Wesphalia region (including Winterberg) was engaged in the pursuit of hunting “witches” with a memorial stone dedicated to six women from Winterberg who died in the witchhunts.
There’s no memorial, but you will find an old historic Jewish cemetery tucked quietly away on the eastern part of town. It’s also where you’ll find plenty of half timbered houses that make for great pictures to take home.
But, what Winterberg is really known for is sports, mostly winter sports. Which is probably why the West German Winter Sport Museum is located right here in the middle of town. There is plenty of skiing, ice skating, and a chance to go what feels like Mach 3 on the Bobbahn, one of the best bobsledding, luge, and skeleton tracks around.
Don’t fret if you like warmer weather, there’s miniature golf in the Kurpark, an outdoor pool, paragliding, and lots of walking and cycling trails. Motorcycle enthusiasts will love the winding twisting roads through a picturesque countryside.
While out exploring look around for the town’s 300 year old Beech tree or sit for some quiet time around the Lennenquelle.
After all that you’re bound to have worked up quite an appetite and there are lots of local specialties to try. The town’s Potato Roast is a huge deal in the Fall with Beech smoked potatoes that are roasted outside and everyone enjoy.
Eggs are also a huge deal here in Winterberg, notably a local specialty called Solei, which are highly salted hard boiled eggs cooked with the Kümmel spice. If you’re adventurous try a local bone sausage called Knochenwurst, usually served with potatoes and Sauerkraut.
In order to remember Winterberg just think of fabulous food and spectacular sports with a smattering of history and culture.
Wow, Winter Mountain, what a wonder!