Things To Do
in Olpe
Olpe is a small town in North Rhine-Westphalia, located in the Sauerland with a strong sense of regional heritage. It sits near the Biggesee reservoir, offering scenic lake views and easy access to forested trails. The historic town center features traditional Westphalian architecture, a bustling market square, and a friendly, village-like atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation, local cuisine, and convenient day trips into the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the charming town of Olpe and settle into your cozy accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, trying traditional German pastries and fresh coffee. Stroll around the historic town square to admire the quaint buildings and vibrant atmosphere.
Explore the picturesque Olpe Lake, where you can rent a paddle boat or take a serene walk along the waterfront. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the lakeside benches, soaking in the beautiful natural scenery. Don’t forget to capture some stunning photos of the surrounding landscapes.
Head back to the town center for dinner at a traditional German restaurant, savoring local specialties such as Sauerbraten or Bratwurst. After dinner, visit a nearby beer garden to enjoy a refreshing local brew. End the night with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets of Olpe.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Ebbegebirge Nature Park. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a scenic trail, surrounded by lush forests and diverse wildlife. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you take in the breathtaking views.
Wrap up your hike and enjoy a packed lunch with a view, watching the clouds drift by. After your meal, visit the charming village of Drolshagen, where you can explore its quaint shops and local art galleries. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet local artisans and learn about their crafts.
Return to Olpe and treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a popular local eatery. Try to sample some regional wines to complement your meal. Conclude the day with an evening stroll through the quiet streets or enjoy live music at a local venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🍝Three-course meal for two | $35-60 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $600-900 |
| 🚆Monthly public transport pass | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town with easy access to nature
- Friendly locals and good regional cuisine
- Good base for exploring the Sauerland
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller selection of international dining options
- "Guten Tag" - Hello/Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Olpe
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the water bordered by forests, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Historic church with classic Westphalian architecture and inviting exterior details for architectural shots.
Vibrant hub with half-timbered buildings and daily life framing the center of town.
Food in Olpe
Olpe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic kale and sausage dish, especially popular in winter; try it in traditional eateries.
Must-Try!
Smoked ham served with bread, often part of a rustic platter.
Dense rye bread served with smoked trout or herring, a common regional pairing.
A light, German cheesecake widely available in bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering regional produce, cheeses, bread, and prepared foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo'; be punctual for appointments and reservations. Handshakes are common in formal encounters.
Safety
Tipping in Olpe
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for good service is customary; cash tips are common but cards are increasingly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days are great for lake activities around Biggesee; expect occasional showers. Outdoor dining is popular and evenings are comfortable for strolls.
Mild days with colorful foliage; ideal for forest trails and photography of autumn light. Markets continue with seasonal produce.
Cold with possible frost; Grünkohl mit Pinkel and other hearty dishes shine. Shorter daylight hours, but festive markets may appear in nearby towns.
Rising temperatures and blooming landscapes; good for hikes in surrounding woodlands and lakeside walks.
Olpe at Night
Hiking in Olpe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic loop around the lake with water views and forest segments.
Gentle to moderate hikes in the foothills offering varied terrain and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Olpe by plane.
Major international airport about 100-140 km away; accessible by car or rail connections.
Regional airport roughly 80-100 km away; convenient for domestic and some European flights.
Large international hub around 90-120 km away; broad flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Olpe, contributing to a community-centered atmosphere.
A noticeable presence of retirees supported by local services and amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at local clubs and recreational levels across the region.
Popular due to the nearby Rothaargebirge and Sauerland trails.
Scenic lanes and countryside routes attract cyclists around Biggesee and beyond.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Olpe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can find hearty vegetable plates, salads, and dairy options; ask for seasonal veggie dishes or Kässpätzle where available.