Winter Forest and Candlelight - Habichtswald Hike to the Baunatal-Altenbauna Christmas Market

The southern part of the Hoher Habichtswald adjoins the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Bergpark. Although it features a dense network of beautiful hiking trails, today it appears more natural and wild. The hike begins at the "Kassel Druseltal" tram stop and initially leads toward Brasselsberg along the Dönchebach stream to the historic Kaffeemühle fork. Basalt and brown coal from the Habichtswald were important materials for building and landscape design for several centuries and also served as energy sources. Along the route, you can spot landscape modifications caused by raw material extraction. Especially at the Teufelseck, impressive outcrops can be seen, which date back to the basalt mining of the 18th century when Herkules and the Bergpark were created. Passing the amphibian reserve "Sieben Teiche" and Birkenkopf, the route leads to the southern tip of the Habichtswald, Baunsberg, whose core has been designated a nature reserve featuring bizarre basalt formations and talus slopes. From Baunsberg, you can enjoy a good view of the dynamically growing urban area of Baunatal. The descent takes you through the spaciously designed city park to the market square, where, as every year, vendors and clubs invite you to a cozy Christmas market where you can end the hike with a snack or a hot drink.

Nature park guide: Jörg Daniel

Information: Route length approximately 12 km.

Point-to-point hike! The group does not return to the starting point!

From Baunatal city center, bus line 51 takes you back to Kassel at the Druseltal stop.