Old town of Quedlinburg. Photo: HTV, M. Gloger

Imperial Palace of Goslar. Photo: GOSLAR Marketing GmbH

D E S T I N AT I O N O F T H E M O N T H , G E R M A N Y

Underground mining tour in the ore mine Rammelsberg. Photo: HTV, M. Gloger

The Harz Mountains in Germany

Breathtaking nature, unparalleled culture and real adventures Unlike any other region, the Harz Mountains offer a diversity of adventures all year round and thereby cater for excitement amongst all age groups. On over 9,000 kilometres of hiking trails, nature enthusiasts can look forward to a hiking paradise par excellence. TEXT: HARZER TOURISMUSVERBAND E.V., TRANSLATION: NANE STEINHOFF

The ‘Harzer-Hexen-Stieg’, one of the ‘Top Trails of Germany’, promises a hiking experience that lasts several days and leads through all facets of the Harz Mountain’s natural landscape. Here, dark, dense spruce forests, swampy cliffs and foggy peaks meet light-flooded plateaus, blossoming mountain meadows, softly burbling creeks and colourful deciduous forests. Whether on the ‘Teufelsstieg’, across the ‘Knochenbrecher’ or through the Ilse valley on the Heinrich-Heine-Path – the ascent to the ‘Brocken’, North Germany’s 56  |  Issue 51  |  June 2017

highest peak at 1,141 metres, is a firm component of many holidays in the Harz Mountains. Exciting nature experiences Since May 2017, both hikers and walkers can enjoy the world’s longest hanging bridge. The filigree rope construction spans 483 metres across the Rappbode Dam at a height of 100 metres. Directly underneath the so-called ‘Titan-RT’, especially brave visitors are greeted by the ‘GigaSwing’, Europe’s most spectacular

pendulum swing. Here, the bravest Harz visitors will jump into the deep, either on their own or in tandem. Steep ascents or fast-paced descents – mountain bike fans also love the Harz Mountains’ impressive landscape. In total, 59,000 metres high on 2,200 course kilometres are to be overcome. On 74 signposted courses, narrow trails, soft forest soils and rocky passages with jumping opportunities and curves take turn in three levels of difficulty. In total, five bike parks require the highest concentration and put technical abilities on trial. Through white winter landscapes on two boards During the cold season, not only experienced skiers and snowboarders can find