The Waldsofa hiking trail and its themes

The 9 km Waldsofa hiking trail is a circular route around Wildbergerhütte with five stops. Along the way, you’ll find viewpoints, Waldsofas to rest on, and information boards about the mining tradition and the area’s historical development. The route also offers views in the direction of Wiehltalsperre; the boards also provide information about the construction of the reservoir and the history of Reichshof. This brings scenic views and historical context together on the same loop, while the Waldsofas offer places to pause. When choosing a route, you can therefore consider not only its length but also its views, places to rest and historical themes.

The start and finish are at the village square above St. Boniface Church. Maps are available at the starting point, and a GPX track can also be downloaded. This lets you combine orientation at the starting point with a digital route display. Since signs or downloads may be updated, it’s worth checking the latest information before setting off.

Church architecture in Wildbergerhütte-Bergerhof

St. Boniface Church in Wildbergerhütte-Bergerhof was consecrated in 1981. Its central octagonal design is a distinctive architectural feature. Local greywacke, sandstone and paving stones were used. The form and materials offer two different starting points for understanding the architecture: the central geometry and the building materials used. The church therefore adds a distinct feature alongside the hiking trail’s information boards, which explore the mining tradition and the area’s historical development. The term “octagonal” describes a shape with exactly eight sides.

More things to do in the wider destination of Reichshof

The wider destination of Reichshof has juniper areas in Branscheid, Wildberg and Hespert. Hikers can explore the juniper heaths there. Free guided walks with information about the juniper heath are offered several times a year. If you’d like to include one of these walks in your plans, check the dates in the latest hiking brochure.

Another historical trace leads to Nespen, also in the wider destination of Reichshof: the old watermill there was first mentioned in 1749. This year is a specific point of reference for local history and adds a different perspective from the nature themes of the juniper heaths.

Also in the wider destination of Reichshof is the Waldlehrpfad, a 4.5 km circular route through the forest. Information boards give it an educational focus; benches and shelters add places to rest along the way. The start and finish are in Reichshof. At 4.5 km, the Waldlehrpfad is half as long as the 9 km Waldsofa hiking trail in Wildbergerhütte. If route length is a key factor in your choice, you can compare the two circular routes directly on that basis; their described themes and stops also differ.

Discover more destinations: Eckenhagen

Go to the wider travel overview: Reichshof.