The Kreuzstein-Route runs through one of the region’s most popular hiking areas, the Hohenstein Nature Reserve near Hessisch Oldendorf, and leads to historically significant sites. The path initially goes through the open forest along the Blutbach, whose name comes from the battle between the Saxons and the Franks in the year 782.
The highlight of the route, the cliffs of the Hohenstein, are reached shortly afterwards. From the 60 m high cliffs at 330 m elevation, you can enjoy a breathtaking view. Afterwards, the path continues to the Green Altar, also called the Devil’s Pulpit. This is a site of historical importance. The Hohenstein was not only the main sanctuary of the pagan Saxons, but cultic activities likely took place here at the Devil’s Pulpit.
Along the way, it is worth paying attention to details at the edge of the path. For example, the Kreuzsteine stones are waiting to be discovered.
Good to know
Pavements
Best to visit
Directions
From the hiking car park at the Kreuzsteinquelle, head east on the Kreuzstein-Route. On your way, you will pass the Red Stone before continuing north towards Brunshagen. From there, follow the Weserbergland Trail west past the Devil's Pulpit and the Hohenstein. At the Baxmannbaude, turn south and hike back to your starting point.
The trail surface consists of approximately 18% asphalt, about 52% firm paths, and around 29% natural trails.
Equipment
No special equipment necessary.
Directions & Parking facilities
By car:
Rinteln, Hessisch Oldendorf, Emmerthal, Aerzen, the Auetal (all in Lower Saxony) and Porta Westfalica (North Rhine-Westphalia) are conveniently located directly on the A2. From Hanover, take the exits Rehren/Auetal, Bad Eilsen/West, or Porta Westfalica. From Dortmund, take the exits Bad Eilsen or Minden/Porta Westfalica. Federal roads 1, 61, 65, 83, 238, and 482 also provide good regional connections.
By train:
The town of Rinteln is accessible by train on weekdays every hour, on weekends every two hours via Hameln and Löhne stations. Buses run several times an hour from the station to the old towns, which are also easily reachable on foot in a few minutes.
Use the car park at the Kreuzsteinquelle.
Only partially accessible by public transport.
Bus stop Langenfeld (Hessisch Oldendorf): Line 27 (Hessisch Oldendorf - Kleinenwieden)
Additional information
http://www.weserbergland-tourismus.de/
License (master data)
Weserbergland Tourismus e.V.
Author´s Tip / Recommendation of the author
Not far from the path is the natour.NAH.zentrum Schillat Cave. Follow the trail marker HO7 to Germany's northernmost dripstone cave and venture into the depths.
Safety guidelines
There are no special safety instructions.
Map
Route Guide Western Weserbergland
Bike and hiking routes as well as excursion destinations and discovery tips in the region: all this is offered by the "Route Guide" from the Tourism Center Western Weserbergland (TWW), available in a handy pocket format.
Scale: 1:35,000
Price: €2.50
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