Maybe these are the last sunny and reasonably warm autumn days we\u2019re experiencing right now. Before the gray and dark winter sets in, we\u2019re taking advantage of the day for a hike in the Leinebergland. This time, our destination is the Lippold\u2019s Cave. Even the winding drive to our starting point in Gerzen is an experience in itself. The hilly Leinebergland is truly a sight to behold.<\/p>\n
Morning Drinks at the Reuberg Hut<\/strong> Visiting Robber Lippold<\/strong> Once again, the trail leads through the forest, past the Reuberg telecommunications tower, which offers a lovely view of Brunkensen.<\/p>\n Ending the Day in Alfeld<\/strong>
\nAbove Gerzen, the trail quickly leads into the forest. The sun has broken through and bathes the autumn woods in light. The colorful leaves in all their shades paint a beautiful autumn scene. We head deeper into the forest and eventually reach the Reuberg Hut. We hear voices and see two men sitting inside. It looks like they\u2019re enjoying an early-morning drink. We\u2019re invited to join, but we have to decline \u2014 after all, our hike has only just begun. Our first destination on this trail is the former hideout of the robber Lippold, who supposedly once caused trouble in this area.<\/p>\n
\nThe climb up to the robber\u2019s cave is quite steep. Once at the top, there isn\u2019t actually all that much to see. As always, you need a bit of imagination. There are basically three \u201crooms,\u201d said to represent the scoundrel\u2019s living room, kitchen, and prison cell. With a flashlight, you could venture deeper into the rock \u2014 but we\u2019re not particularly tempted today. So, after a short while, we move on and head toward Brunkensen. When we arrive, we walk straight through the village before starting the steep ascent back. Along the way, we cross the Glene stream, pass St. Martin\u2019s Church with its two large bells out front, and begin the climb.<\/p>\n
\nBack at our starting point, we drive to Alfeld for a coffee break. That turns out to be not so easy \u2014 the only option is an ice cream caf\u00e9 at the beginning of the pedestrian zone. But we quite like it at \u201cDa Francesco.\u201d There are waffles, good coffee, and, of course, Baileys on ice \ud83d\ude42 It\u2019s a perfect ending to this autumn hike.<\/p>\n