Schanze – European Bison and forests northwest of Bad Berleburg
Arbeitsgemeinschaft Biologischer Umweltschutz im Kreis Soest e.V Verified partner
The area is known for its abundance of wildlife. You can come across Roe Deer, Wild Boar, Mouflon and Red Deer, some of which carry impressive antlers. The autumn Red Deer rut when the forests resound to the stags’ powerful bellowing, is a particularly impressive experience.
Black Stork and Nutcracker are two of the rare bird species that reside in the area. The Black Stork is very secretive and is therefore only occasionally seen. The Nutcracker is often noticed because of its penetrating, rasping calls, but its dark brown plumage with white spots serves as a good camouflage.

Tips and hints
For more information about the Bison, e.g. about the Bison interactive exhibition (Poststraße 40, 57319 Bad Berleburg, limited opening times), please visit: www.wisent-welt.deYou can find additional information on the Rothaarsteig Trail Bison path here: www.rothaarsteig.de
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Public transport
The Rothaarbahn railway is a convenient and very idyllic way of travelling to the area via the Eder Valley. From the station in Aue you can take the bus or walk approx. two kilometres to the circular trail in Wingeshausen.For current timetable information, please visit: http://www.zws-online.de
Getting there
If you are arriving by car, the circular trail is very easily accessible, as it passes right through the village of Wingeshausen. A convenient starting point is the inn called "Landgasthof Weber" (Inselweg 5, 57319 Bad Berleburg).Address for satnavs: Inselweg, 57319 Bad Berleburg-Wingeshausen
GPS (UTM): 32 U 450132, 5657742
Google coordinates: 51.069027, 8.288246
Other suitable entry points are the bison viewing enclosure "Wisent-Wildnis am Rothaarsteig" just off the K42 road between Aue-Wingeshausen and Schmallenberg hunting lodge, or Schmallenberg hunting lodge itself on the crest between Aue-Wingeshausen and Fleckenberg.
Parking
You will have to look for a parking space in Wingeshausen village. Alternatively, you can start the tour at the car park of the Wisent-Wildnis at the Rothaarsteig trail or at the hiking car park in the village of Jagdhaus.Coordinates
Author’s map recommendations
Equipment
The circular tour requires really good physical condition. In some places surefootedness is important, so sturdy footwear is recommended. If you do not wish to purchase a meal in Wingeshausen, in the Wisent-Hütte or in the hunting lodge, it is advisable to take a backpack with food and drinks.Statistics
- 13 Waypoints
- 13 Waypoints
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