Activities in the Harz Mountains.
In the heart of Germany, the Harz region reveals its full diversity: dense forests, mystical moors, half-timbered towns full of history and a nature that sounds different in every season. Whether in summer on green trails, in winter in a quiet snowy landscape or immersing yourself in centuries-old traditions - activities in the Harz will give you moments to remember.
The Harz Mountains in summer.
When the sun bathes the forests in warm light, the Harz Mountains reveal their summer diversity. Hikes lead to glistening lakes, through gorges and over mountain ranges that open up views across the landscape. Take the cable car up into the air and enjoy panoramic views that are only so clear in summer. Cyclists discover quiet valleys on winding routes, while mountain bikers seek a challenge on demanding trails. Those who prefer a quieter pace will find idyllic places to linger by ponds and riverbanks. And in the historic old towns, cafés and markets invite you to lively moments that round off the day. Summer in the Harz Mountains is an interplay of movement and leisure - and always an experience for all the senses.
The Harz Mountains in winter.
As soon as snow covers the mountains, the Harz Mountains are transformed into a winter wonderland. Snow-covered forests, sparkling ice crystals and clear air create a backdrop that is second to none. Cross-country skiers will find perfect conditions on extensive trails, while snowshoe hikes lead through quiet landscapes where only the crunch of footsteps can be heard. There are also ski resorts with downhill runs and lifts, ideal for those who like it more sporty. In the half-timbered towns, markets and squares shine in winter splendor - an atmospheric contrast to the natural idyll. Whether romantic walks in the snow, sporty days on the slopes or cozy hours by candlelight: winter in the Harz Mountains is an experience of peace, strength and special magic.
Hiking in the Harz Mountains.
The Harz Mountains are made for hiking - with a variety ranging from easy walks to challenging tours. Gentle paths lead through dense forests, past babbling brooks and moss-covered clearings. Things get more challenging on the way up to the Brocken, the highest peak in northern Germany, from where you can enjoy sweeping views across the low mountain range. The Bode Valley delights with its wild rock formations and deep gorges, while circular trails around lakes and ponds offer tranquil moments by the water. Historic themed trails build bridges between nature and culture, telling stories of mining, myths and legends. Hiking in the Harz Mountains means immersing yourself step by step in a landscape that constantly reveals new images.
Further Harz highlights.
Discover half-timbered towns.
Harz narrow-gauge railroad.
Castles & palaces.
Harz National Park.
Culinary experiences.
Attractions in and around Wernigerode.
Wernigerode enchants with its candy-colored houses, the proud castle overlooking the town and the serenity of a place that doesn't have to pretend. You should also not miss these highlights:
Guided tours of the railroad depot
Every Friday (except public holidays), fascinating technical monuments on a guided tour of the imposing workshop hall from 1926 with a length of 70 m, a width of 25 m and a height of 11 m, registration recommended
Harz in miniature
Miniature park "Kleiner Harz" in Wernigerode Bürgerpark: recreational areas, themed gardens, lakeside promenade, pet enclosure, observation tower and mineral gorge. An ideal excursion destination for the whole family.
Aviation museum
4 hangars, 6,000 m², a decommissioned Transall on the roof: aviation technology to touch and marvel at.
Harz Planetarium & Planet Trail
Explanations and experiments on the course of the sun, the phases of the moon and the formation of clouds, among other things. The starting point for the planet trail is the sun at Heltauer Platz, the end point is Pluto at the Harzplanetarium, long route 6 km with 3 hours exploration time, short route with 2 hours exploration time.
Escape Rooms
Three puzzle rooms with currently four different games as well as an unusual city game.
Adventure & action in the Harz Mountains.
The Harz Mountains will surprise you with experiences that promise to set your heart racing.
On the Titan RT suspension bridge, you can float 100 meters above the ground, while those who dare even more can plunge into the depths on the spectacular "GigaSwing". Mountain bikers and downhill riders will find their routes in Braunlage or Thale, while summer toboggan runs, cable cars and climbing parks provide variety. The region is also a dream on two or four wheels: winding mountain roads attract motorcyclists and convertible enthusiasts as well as classic car fans. Those who love heights can experience the Harz Mountains from a completely new perspective - on balloon rides, paragliding flights or sightseeing flights. The Harz Mountains become a stage for unforgettable adventures - sometimes quiet, sometimes fast-paced, always extraordinary.
Culture in the Harz Mountains.
Between mountains and forests, the Harz Mountains preserve a cultural heritage of inestimable value. UNESCO World Heritage Sites, medieval old towns and unique buildings tell of the power, faith and craftsmanship of past centuries. If you stroll through the alleyways of Quedlinburg, visit the Imperial Palace in Goslar or explore the Upper Harz Water Management System, you will experience history in vivid images - closely interwoven with the nature that surrounds it.
Quedlinburg
UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994: over 2,000 half-timbered houses from eight centuries, the castle hill ensemble with St. Servatius collegiate church and cathedral treasury - Quedlinburg tells history at every step.
Romanesque Road
The Romanesque Road runs for more than 1,000 kilometers through Saxony-Anhalt. There are impressive stops around Wernigerode: Halberstadt Cathedral, Drübeck Abbey, Ballenstedt Castle and Michaelstein Abbey.
Goslar
The thousand-year-old imperial city impresses with its historic old town and the Rammelsberg ore mine - both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Also worth seeing is the 11th century imperial palace, once the heart of the medieval wandering empire.
Upper Harz water management
A masterpiece of engineering: over 100 ponds, hundreds of kilometers of ditches and watercourses once supplied the mining industry. Today, this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site can be experienced on hikes and museum visits - as an impressive combination of nature and culture.
