Arpe can be explored along several clearly distinct routes: a child-friendly interactive trail, a hike with scenic viewpoints and a route featuring various Lauschpohl listening stations. The village also has a small branch church with a named group of figures, as well as a pilgrimage on foot that forms part of church and village life. This gives you different ways to focus on nature trails, local history and tradition during your stay.
Hiking trails around Arpe
The Hardt Adventure Trail Arpe is a circular route about 2.5 kilometres long and suitable for children. At various interactive stations, you can test your dexterity, imagination and stamina. Along the way, the trail passes through patches of woodland and meadow, rocky areas and slopes alongside a stream valley. Its approximate length, circular format and activity stations give the route its own distinctive character: it combines exercise over varied terrain with interactive activities for children.
The circular trail around Arpe (AR2) starts at the hiking information board opposite the Voss inn in Arpe. From there, it heads towards Herschede, passes Silberg and continues to Keppel before returning to Arpe. There are many lovely views after the ascent to Herschede and on reaching Silberg. You can take bus route 345 to the “Arpe” stop to get to the starting point. Check the bus service before travelling if you plan to use it to get there.
Other routes follow different described itineraries: the Mythenweg (MW) runs from Berghausen via Niederberndorf to Arpe. Lauschpohl Tour 1 runs from Arpe via Keppel and Silberg, passing various Lauschpohl stations on the way to Herschede, and then returns to Arpe. The starting point for the Lauschpöhle in Arpe is marked by an information board about the Lauschpöhle in the Hawerland. These trails offer different routes to help you plan your trip.
Church, pilgrimage and local history
The small branch church of St. Anthony in Arpe was built in the Renaissance style. Its exact age is unknown; it may date from around 1650. The church was renovated in 2015. In front of it stands a group of figures depicting St. Anthony with pigs, known as “Fickeltünnes”. Its architecture, approximate date and group of figures offer several points of interest if you are interested in the village’s history.
The pilgrimage on foot from Arpe to Werl is also part of local tradition: it developed into a traditional part of church and village life in Arpe. It is therefore not simply another route description, but part of the village’s history and community life.
Dining in Arpe
At the Voss inn, regional specialities and seasonal dishes are freshly prepared. As business details may change, check the latest information before visiting. The inn also serves as a landmark for the AR2: its starting point is at the hiking information board opposite.
More topics in the wider destination of Schmallenberg
The wider destination of Schmallenberg has more distinct topics to explore. Schmallenberg’s old town features a uniform Neoclassical architectural style and many restored half-timbered houses. Schmallenberg also has a family adventure trail about three kilometres long, with 13 stations on forests, animals, wood and birds. The historical guided tour offers insights into Schmallenberg’s history and introduces local personalities such as Floigenkasper and Breybalg. Check current dates or booking options if you plan to join this tour.
Discover more destinations: Winkhausen, Niederberndorf, Menkhausen, Oberrarbach, Gellinghausen, Oberkirchen, Nordenau, Schanze.
View the wider travel overview: Schmallenberg.
