The Harz Witches Trail Short Break

Torfhaus is accessible from Berlin by train and bus (3 hours) or Hannover (1.5 hours). Located in the Upper Harz, Torfhaus is a small town popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. About 8 km below the Brocken summit, you can admire the view of tomorrow's destination while enjoying a meal of local specialities at one of the town's restaurant. Prepare for your first day of hiking on the fantastic Harz Witches Trail.   

Today you will experience a real highlight of the Harz Witches Trail, the Brocken (1,141m). Germany's famous writer, philospher and statesman, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, was well known for having summited Brocken in 1777, 1783 and 1784 and from here on you will be following the Goetheweg footpath to the summit. The Brocken has always featured in myths and legends of witches and devils and interestingly gave its name to the Brocken Spectre, an optical illusion whereby your shadow, surrounded by a rainbow, is cast on the clouds below. Enjoy the view from the highest mountain in the Harz before descending on foot to Drei Annen Hohne. From this hamlet, take the legendary Brockenbahn steam engine (included) to Schierke, where you will spend the night. 

Ascent/Descent: 340m/600m

After a fortifying German breakfast of eggs, freshly baked bread, meats and cheese, return to Drei Annen Hohe with the Brockenbahn steam engine (included) from where you will continue downhill through pretty forests and past unusual rock formations to the Konigshutter waterfall. There is a noticeable change in the countryside today as you walk into the chalk downs around Rübeland. You can still see the evidence of chalk mining as well as the caves of Baumannshöhle and Hermannshöhle, discovered in 1536 and 1866 respectively and both worthwhile visiting. History buffs will enjoy the historic mining village of Neuwerk, your destination for the day. 

Ascent/Descent: 160m/400m

Today a unique experience awaits in the form of the 'Rappbodetalsperre': the world's longest suspension rope bridge (entry payable locally, can be bypassed if preferred). After this adventure, enjoy the relaxing downhill forest trail as it winds its way into Altenbrak, the perfect place to stop for a 'Kaffee & Kuchen'. Once re-fuelled, continue on the final section of the Harz Witches Trail which is particularly beautiful and mystical. It is easy to see why so many legends and myths have arised from such bewitching landscapes. Imposing rock faces and babbling brooks immerse you in the fairy-tale atmosphere of the Harz Mountains. Before reaching Thale, a detour to the Rosstrappe is recommended, from where you can enjoy fabulous views of the Bode River Valley. Walk or take a bus or cable car to Thale and then a train onto Quedlingburg. A beautiful medieval town on the UNESCO World Heritage list made up of half timbered houses, a towering castle and cathedral on the hill above town, Quedlinburg is one of the best preserved medieval and renaissance towns in Europe and is the perfect place to finish your Harz Witches Trail adventure. 

Ascent/Descent: 430m/280m

Please note, as of June 2023, part of the walking route to Thale is currently closed due to a landslide bringing trees down and blocking the path. We're unsure when this will reopen so we have created an alternative route to divert around this, if it is still closed when you travel. It's best to check with the accommodation/tourist information before setting off to see if the path has reopened and to observe any signs you see along the route. It is the Bodetal section that is closed (between Treseburg to Thale). Both the original and alternative tracks are loaded in our app, so you are able to follow whichever is applicable when you travel.

We highly recommend adding an additional night in Quedlingburg. The old, narrow streets invite you to stroll, marvel and enjoy. Relax in cafés and beer gardens, toasting to a wonderful long weekend of hiking the Harz Witches Trail. Just contact us if you would like to add any additional nights.