Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Ebbegebirge, Olpe is a charming German town with more than 70 listed monumental buildings, ancient forests and annual cultural festivals. Stay a while and you’ll discover some of Germany’s most distinct cuisine, excellent diving opportunities on the Biggesee reservoir and historical medieval architecture.
Things to do in Olpe
A town with a rich history, 73 of the Olpe’s buildings are listed as monumental structures. Among the most impressive of these is the historic town wall with Engelsturm and Hexenturm towers. The 14th-century structure is Olpe’s oldest and it is thought that women suspected of witchcraft were once held prisoner in the wall’s two towers.
Just north of Olpe is the Eggegebirge National Park, a sprawling space comprised of lush forests, hills and reservoirs. The park’s most famous features are the towering columns of stone, a great place to hike for awesome views of the surrounding park.
Looking for a cultural event? The Stadthalle Olpe regularly plays host to a range of different productions such as plays, musicals and cabaret acts.
Getting around Olpe
The best way to reach Olpe from the main regional airport of Cologne-Bonn is by car, which takes about one hour, or via train or bus. Olpe boasts a network of cycling paths and well-signed walking trails, which lead around town and help you navigate on foot or bicycle.