recommended route
Gambach und Hirtenwiese – Juniper heath south of Burbach
Arbeitsgemeinschaft Biologischer Umweltschutz im Kreis Soest e.V Verified partner
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/ Heidelandschaft an der GambachPhoto: Ursula Siebel
Starting in 1985, extensive, conservation activities, partly carried out by unpaid volunteers, led to the preservation and restoration of the original landscape character and of the important protected habitats.
Between the Junipers of many different shapes and sizes that characterise the area a diverse range of plants cover the ground. The large areas of Heather are particularly eye-catching. In August its flowers coat the area with a purple sheen. At this time, the warm yellow bloom of the Arnica, an ancient medicinal herb, is already gone. Just like the rare Mat-Grass, Arnica prefers barren locations.
Amidst these botanical highlights, Red-backed Shrikes can also be discovered on the heath in some years.
Author’s recommendation
Safety information
Because of the rough path through the juniper heathland a degree of surefootedness is required.Tips and hints
A leaflet describing the area can be downloaded from www.biologische-station-siegen-wittgenstein.de.In the immediate vicinity of the circular path, the nationally-known Rothaarsteig trail traverses the uplands between Würgendorf and Lützeln. It links up with the Rothaarsteig branch-trail "Trödelstein-Pfad" and the Rothaarsteig-Audiowanderweg "Großer Stein".
An unusual hiking trail is the theme trail "Literatur in der Natur - Romantischer Hickengrund". This combines literature audio texts with nature experience.
The local museum Heimatmuseum in der Alten Vogtei in Burbach offers functional historical workshops and information about the history of the town.
Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
Note
Public transport
The heath is very easy to reach by public transport, because Hellertalbahn trains stop in Burbach.Getting there
At the roundabout in the centre of Burbach village, drive uphill in the direction of Lippe (L 723). About one kilometre after leaving the village you will already see the heath on your left alongside the road. Drive past the end of the heath and at the top turn left onto a dirt track which leads directly to the Wanderparkplatz (hiking car park).Address for satnavs: Gambach / L723, 57299 Burbach
GPS (UTM): 32 U 434583, 5620241
Google coordinates: 50.730221, 8.073299
Parking
At the hiking car park "Gambach".Coordinates
Book recommendation by the author
Author’s map recommendations
Equipment
Sturdy footwear is recommended.Basic Equipment for Hiking
- Sturdy, comfortable and waterproof hiking boots or approach shoes
- Layered, moisture wicking clothing
- Hiking socks
- Rucksack (with rain cover)
- Protection against sun, rain and wind (hat, sunscreen, water- and windproof jacket and suitable legwear)
- Sunglasses
- Hiking poles
- Ample supply of drinking water and snacks
- First aid kit
- Blister kit
- Bivy / survival bag
- Survival blanket
- Headlamp
- Pocket knife
- Whistle
- Cell phone
- Cash
- Navigation equipment / map and compass
- Emergency contact details
- ID
- The 'basic' and 'technical' equipment lists are generated based on the selected activity. They are not exhaustive and only serve as suggestions for what you should consider packing.
- For your safety, you should carefully read all instructions on how to properly use and maintain your equipment.
- Please ensure that the equipment you bring complies with local laws and does not include restricted items.
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