Follow the Blue Hödeken on a 14.3 km hike through the Sackwald from Winzenburg to Alfeld (Leine) or vice versa and discover several springs along the way.
The Hödeken, named after his felt hat (Hüdekin, little hat), is a legendary figure from the Leinebergland. The dwarf-like figure acted as a messenger, transmitting messages between Hildesheim and Winzenburg. The "Blue Hödeken" did not get its name by chance, as water is the defining element of this path. You will be led along streams, past wells and ponds through the Sackwald.
The starting or ending point of the hike is the Apenteiche in Winzenburg. The water from the spring there can be safely consumed; it is generally worth lingering at this mystical place. The route continues through wooded areas above Everode. Towards Hörsum, the path opens to one side, offering a view of hilly fields. Finally, you leave the forest in Langenholzen and make a small detour to the Gottesbrunnen, the Warne spring. Follow the river into the city center of Alfeld, which invites exploration with its half-timbered charm.
Enjoy the occasional tranquility of this path and keep an eye out for the occasional spring trying to hide. Options to eat and rest can be found at the beginning of the hike in Winzenburg and Westerberg (not directly on the path) and at the end in Langenholzen and Alfeld.
Author’s recommendation
Plan some time at the Apenteich spring. Especially in summer, this is a refreshing spot; the spring is surrounded by trees, giving it an almost mystical atmosphere. The water of the Apenteich spring is also drinkable.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Rest stops
Zum Zwetschenkreuger in WesterbergFischerhütte und Speiselokal in Winzenburg
Safety information
There are no special safety instructions.
Tips and suggestions
The Blue Hödeken is one of five Hödeken routes.
The Hödeken, named after his felt hat (Hüdekin, little hat), which he always wore, is a legendary figure from the Leinebergland. The Hödeken is a dwarf-like figure who acted as a messenger between Hildesheim and Winzenburg, transmitting news.
The path between Winzenburg and the Hildesheim Cathedral that the Hödeken used is called "Rennstieg."
Burgruine Winzenburg
Entdeckerturm
Stadtmuseum Alfeld (alte Lateinschule)
Tiermuseum Alfeld
Kirche St. Nicolai
Rathaus der Stadt Alfeld (Leine)
Zum Zwetschenkreuger in Westerberg
Schnarchmuseum
Fischerhütte und Speiselokal in Winzenburg
UNESCO-Welterbe Fagus-Werk
Stefan's Haifischbar
Public transport
Travel by train to Freden (Leine).
Freden (Leine) is conveniently located on the north-south main railway line. The trains of Deutsche Bahn AG and Metronom Eisenbahngesellschaft mbH allow hourly arrivals and departures to and from Freden (Leine).
From Freden (Leine), take line 61 towards Alfeld (Leine)/ZOB and travel to Winzenburg. From there it is about a 15-minute walk.
Further information and advice on public transport and local transport can be found at www.leinebergland-mobilitaet.de.
Get Timetable to destination
Directions
From Hannover:
Coming from the north, leave the A7 at exit 66 (B82/Harz-Rhüden). Then continue via the L488 and L486 to Winzenburg.
From Göttingen:
Coming from the south, leave the A7 at exit 66 (B82/Harz-Rhüden). Then continue via the L488 and L486 to Winzenburg.
Parking
Parking lot Tiebenburg (forest edge/edge of Winzenburg). Otherwise, park in town.
Please make sure not to block forest paths as they must always be passable for larger machines!
Coordinates
Book recommendations for this region:
Equipment
No special equipment is necessary. Pay attention to good footwear, possibly weatherproof clothing, and sufficient supplies, especially water.
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions