Living railway history
Altenbeken
Altenbeken, located at the gateway to the Eggegebirge mountains, is a special tip for railway enthusiasts. Numerous visitors come to the town to discover its rich railway history. Excellent hiking trails lead around the imposing viaduct through the varied landscape, allowing visitors to experience both nature and technology in equal measure.
Altenbeken and the railroad
When people hear the name Altenbeken, they often think of railways. This is hardly surprising, given that the municipality of Altenbeken is closely linked to the history of the railways. This connection can be felt almost everywhere – probably also because generations of Altenbeken residents have worked for the railways.
Every two years in July, these memories are brought back to life. That's when historic steam and diesel locomotives, large and small steam engines, and all kinds of railway accessories can be admired at Vivat Viadukt® at Altenbeken station. The municipality is located in the middle of North Rhine-Westphalia's largest nature park, the Teutoburger Wald/Eggegebirge Nature Park.
“Naturerbe Wanderwelt”
The nature reserve “Egge-Nord” around Altenbeken covers around 2,600 hectares and is Germany's largest area for the development of beech forest wilderness outside a national park. Hikers and nature lovers can get a little closer to the future primeval forest on winding paths. Attentive visitors may encounter shy forest dwellers: eagle owls, black storks, wildcats, and numerous bat species have found a valuable refuge here.
The best way to experience Altenbeken's special railway atmosphere is on a hike along the Viaduct Trail. The approximately 30 km long circular trail (shortcuts possible) is a successful combination of railway and nature experiences. Well-maintained and well-marked paths offer fantastic views of the mighty railway viaduct – the largest stone railway bridge in Europe.
Events
Every two years, steam and smoke fill the air in Egge when the big viaduct festival takes place in Altenbeken. The railway community invites visitors to the “Vivat Viadukt” railway and culture days. The event is one of the most beautiful railway festivals in Germany.
For many photography enthusiasts from all over Europe, the spectacular journey of historic locomotives and carriages over the mighty Altenbeken Viaduct is a very special event. The sophisticated cultural program is also an integral part of this popular event.
Further information
Find out more about leisure activities in Altenbeken:
Tourist-Information Altenbeken
Bahnhofstraße 5a | D - 33184 Altenbeken | Tel. +49 5255 12045