Orketal Loop Trail (Medebach: Medelon–Berge–Dreislar)

The loop trail starting at the Orketal parking lot first follows the Orke Water Trail to Medelon. Along the way, you’ll find several information stations along the Orke River offering interesting facts about its habitats, animals, and plants, the river’s past uses, and the nature conservation measures of the LIFE project. As part of the European LIFE project, the Orke River has been restored to a more natural state through extensive measures.

The loop trail winds through Buchenwalds, meadows, and the “Heideköppel” nature reserve all the way to the small village of Berge. Berge is the smallest district of Medebach and also one of the oldest. It was first mentioned as early as 1126. To this day, Berge has retained its character as an idyllic, agricultural village.

Passing over the Lückenkopf—which offers a beautiful panoramic view of Medebach Bay—the hiking trail leads through the Rüggen Nature Reserve to the summit of the Kreuzberg above Dreislar. The contiguous forests surrounding the Rüggen evolved from a former coppice system and provide a habitat primarily for small mammals and cavity-nesting birds. From the summit of the Kreuzberg, you can enjoy a magnificent view of Dreislar and Medebach Bay before descending to Dreislar via a steeper trail.

Dreislar itself is known for the Barite Museum. The mining tradition in Dreislar—and thus the extraction of barite—dates back to 1777. Today, these fascinating crystals can be admired at the Barite Museum.

North of Dreislar lies the “Im Schwinkel” rest area. With water treading pools, a barefoot trail, massage trees, and lounge chairs, the spot invites you to take a well-deserved break and relax. Here, the loop trail meets the “Sauerland-Höhenflug,” which offers further wonderful panoramic views of Medebach Bucht, designated as a European bird sanctuary.