Sauerland Tourism Releases Mid-Year Report

Tourism in the Sauerland can look back on a successful first half of 2026. From January through June, “Germany’s Inspiring Outdoor Region” recorded a total of 1,320,745 guest arrivals and 3,866,588 overnight stays. This represents a 3.1 percent increase in guest arrivals and a 3.2 percent increase in overnight stays compared to the same period last year. The average length of stay also remained at a solid level at 2.9 days, though slightly below the full-year average of 3.0 days in 2025.

The international market showed particularly strong growth: 213,012 international arrivals were recorded in the first half of the year, an increase of 5.4 percent. The number of overnight stays by international guests even rose by 7.8 percent to 855,274. The average length of stay for international guests was 3.1 days.

A look at the individual months reveals a successful start to the year. January alone saw significant growth, with 209,743 arrivals and 593,936 overnight stays. February also continued this positive trend with 213,535 arrivals and 633,975 overnight stays. In March, the trend remained largely at the previous year’s level, with 190,096 arrivals and 549,492 overnight stays.

In April, 210,580 arrivals and 648,071 overnight stays were recorded. May stood out as the month with the highest demand in the first half of the year: 258,384 arrivals and 765,814 overnight stays underscore the Sauerland’s appeal during the spring and early season, with long weekends and numerous holidays. June was slightly weaker, with 238,407 arrivals and 675,300 overnight stays, but this did not detract from the overall positive results for the first half of the year.

“The first half of 2026 clearly shows that the Sauerland continues to be a highly attractive destination for vacations and short trips,” explains Philipp Scharfenbaum, Chairman of Sauerland Tourism. “The stable demand over several months and the positive trend among international guests are particularly encouraging. At the same time, we are closely monitoring individual fluctuations and will continue to consistently focus our marketing efforts on the region’s strengths—nature, active pursuits, family vacations, hiking, cycling, and easy accessibility.”

For Sauerland Tourism, the mid-year results are a positive sign for the second half of the year. The figures show that the region remains popular among both short-stay vacationers from North Rhine-Westfalen and neighboring states, as well as among international visitors. With a diverse range of offerings, memorable nature experiences, and a clear focus on quality and year-round tourism, the Sauerland considers itself well-positioned.

Download the press release as a PDF here.

Press contact:
Rouven Soyka, Sauerland-Tourismus e. V.
Johannes-Hummel-Weg 1, 57392 Schmallenberg
Phone: 02974-969830, Email: presse@sauerland.com