Hiking on the roof of the Sauerland brings you very close to heaven. The air here is often so clear that you can see for miles across Germany. The Winterberger Hochtour Trail takes you 80 kilometres (49.7 mi) up and down rugged mountains, charming heath landscapes and through idyllic valleys. The varied terrain makes this long-distance hiking trail quite demanding and physically challenging. The Sauerland’s highest mountains are found here, with no less than four 800-metre (2,624 feet) peaks. Designated a quality hiking trail, the wonderful route also takes you through the beautiful districts of Winterberg with their lovingly restored half-timbered houses, characterised by slate-covered roofs, and many historical sites. You hike along a mix of wide hiking trails and narrow paths.

The 841-metre (2,759 feet) Kahle Asten, perhaps the most famous mountain in the region, is the start and end point for the hike. It has a spectacular view from the top. I’ve divided the trail into five stages between 13 and 19 kilometres (8 and 11.8 mi) and added another for the 5-kilometre (3.3 mi) hike to Winterberg, if you want to start walking from there. The stages are organised so that you can also hike them as relaxed day Tours. Of course, it’s also possible to tailor the routes individually as many places en route are easy to reach by public transport.

The best way to get the latest bus and train timetables is to contact the Regionalverkehr Ruhr-Lippe (rlg-online.de/). It’s worth asking for the Sauerlandcard which allows you to travel on main routes free of charge and gives you a discount on many facilities (sauerland.com/Planen-Buchen/Sauerland-Card). There are cosy overnight accommodation options and eateries to suit every taste in all of the stage towns.

Equipment-wise, you should bring along sturdy shoes and, of course, clothes that are suitable for the weather. Pack enough food too – you’ll climb 600 metres (1,968 feet) on stage one and you’ll definitely find a wonderful place to have a picnic at the top!

What are you waiting for? Westphalia's most beautiful and challenging circular hiking trail beckons. Lace up your shoes, pack your backpack and discover the impressive Hochsauerland.