Attractions and Places To See around Landkreis Nordhausen - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Landkreis Nordhausen, located in northern Thuringia, offer a diverse blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural experiences. The region is characterized by its unique karst landscape, the Harz Mountains, and numerous historical sites. Visitors can explore a variety of landmarks, natural features, and cultural institutions. This area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and insights into local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Landkreis Nordhausen
- The most popular attractions is Red shot (HWN 90), a mountain viewpoint. At 505 meters high, this mountain offers extensive views of the southern Harz foreland, the karst landscape, and the Kyffhäuser.
- Another must-see spot is Hohnstein Castle Ruins (HWN 98), a historical castle. These impressive ruins, dating back to around 1120, provide a glimpse into medieval history, with an iron staircase leading to the ruined tower for panoramic views.
- Visitors also love Poppenberg Tower (HWN 92), a viewpoint. This tower provides magnificent views over the Harz National Park after climbing its many steps.
- Landkreis Nordhausen is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and cultural institutions. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to unique geological formations.
- The attractions around Landkreis Nordhausen are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 2000 upvotes and over 1400 photos, these spots offer diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Reversible oak (HWN 165)
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Red shot (HWN 90)
Highlight • Mountain Hut
The terrain slopes very steeply towards the valley side. It is worthwhile to make a detour to this mountain made of red porphyrite (= geologically for volcanic rock) on the tour along the "Harzer Grenzweg". Here and there the red rock, from which the steep mountain probably owes its name, shines out clearly in the surrounding area. Here you can enjoy the wonderful view of the southern Harz foreland, the karst landscape and the Kyffhäuser.
The best starting point for a beautiful circular hike is the hiking car park in Zorge. From here it goes up to the stepmother HWN 164, the Wendeleiche HWN 165 (located on the "Harzer Grenzweg") and the two-country oak (special stamp of the HWN).
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Hohnstein Castle Ruins (HWN 98)
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Poppenberg Tower (HWN 92)
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Neustadt Dam (Harzer Wandernadel 218)
Highlight • Monument
The path to the Dreiherrenstein is fantastic
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Stierberg Pond (HWN 048)
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sophienhof Goat Alm (HWN 097)
Highlight • Restaurant
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Ilfelder Weather Vane (HWN 095)
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Two-Country Oak (Zweiländereiche) and Harz Border Trail marker
Highlight • Historical Site
A sign on the two borders explains the different boundary stones:
KP = Kingdom of Prussia
HB = Duchy of Braunschweig (from 1816)
ST W = Stiftsamt Walkenried (after 1668)
GDR = boundary stone from 1968
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Stiefmutter Shelter and Hundertmorgenwiese Viewpoint (HWN 164)
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Landkreis Nordhausen.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Landkreis Nordhausen
Karst Trail in Germany's Southern Harz Mountains – Where Water Meets Limestone
Wonderful Green Band
Thuringia's Primeval Forests of Tomorrow
Hiking in Germany’s Kyffhäuser hills – 15 days on the Barbarossa Trail
My 25 most beautiful Highlights in the Harz
Explore beautiful winter hikes in Germany’s Harz Mountains
Experience history – day Tours at the Green Belt in Thuringia
Family adventures in the Harz
The most popular swimming spots in Thuringia
Mindful Hiking 2.2 – Aktivieren & Auftanken
Tips from the Community
This shelter no longer exists and the stamp box has been moved slightly.
10
0
Very popular excursion destination, restaurant and farm shop.
9
0
Then the sole was gone.😂
3
0
Not just a paradise for children. There is also enough to see for dear parents. The ice cream is first class. Definitely needs to be tasted. A tasting is also worthwhile in the farm shop and in the small restaurant.
8
1
Since 1894, the wooded Poppenberg has had a 33.5 m high observation tower in steel framework construction built by the Nordhausen branch of the Harz Club, which was named after Prince Otto zu Stolberg-Wernigerode. On the occasion of the dedication of the tower on July 12, 1894, the mountain peak was christened Fürst-Otto-Höhe in honor of the forest owner. The tower was renovated in 1994.[2] When visibility is good, it offers a comprehensive view of the southern Harz, the Lower Harz with the Joseph Cross on the Großer Auerberg, the Goldene Aue and the Kyffhäuser. (Source: Wikipedia)
15
1
A very beautiful place that you should visit. Also not too crowded. There is also a special stamp point for the Harz hiking badge here. The two-country oak. (Does not count towards the Kaiser)
4
1
The tower was built by the Harz Club in 1897 and is stamped 92 of the Harz Hiking Needle.
35
0
The old turning body has fallen over in the meantime. You can still see the remains of the old spiral staircase that long ago allowed visitors to climb to the platform in the treetop.
12
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Landkreis Nordhausen?
Landkreis Nordhausen is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Hohnstein Castle Ruins (HWN 98), dating back to around 1120, which offers panoramic views from its ruined tower. The region also features the Mittelbau-Dora Concentration Camp Memorial, providing a poignant look into its past, and the Flohburg | Das Nordhausen Museum, showcasing urban history, geology, and archaeology.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the area?
Yes, several attractions are great for families. The Sophienhof Goat Alm (HWN 097) is a popular destination where children can interact with farm animals. Many historical sites like Hohnstein Castle Ruins (HWN 98) and natural spots like Stierberg Pond (HWN 048) are also considered family-friendly.
Where can I find the best viewpoints in Landkreis Nordhausen?
For stunning vistas, climb the Poppenberg Tower (HWN 92), which offers magnificent views over the Harz National Park. The Red shot (HWN 90) mountain provides extensive views of the southern Harz foreland, karst landscape, and Kyffhäuser. Additionally, the Ilfeld Weather Vane offers a great perspective of the surrounding Thuringian countryside.
What natural features are prominent in Landkreis Nordhausen?
The region is known for its unique karst landscape, which you can explore via the Karstwanderweg. Notable natural features include the Red shot (HWN 90), a mountain composed of red porphyrite, and the Reversible oak (HWN 165), a recognized natural monument. The Salza Spring and Nordhausen Gravel Pit Lakes also offer natural beauty.
Are there easy hiking trails near the attractions?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. You can find routes like the Kelle Circular Trail, Salza Spring Nature Trail, and the loop from Sophienhof to the Südharzer Steam Locomotive Trail. For more easy hikes, explore the guide Easy hikes around Landkreis Nordhausen.
What cycling opportunities are available in the region?
Landkreis Nordhausen offers diverse cycling routes. For gravel biking, consider routes like the Old Town Gate of Neustadt – Bike path along the Zorge loop from Nordhausen, or the View of Heringer Schloss – Bielener Gravel Ponds loop from Urbach. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as the N1 Rabenstein mountain and valley tour. Find more options in the guides for Gravel biking around Landkreis Nordhausen and MTB Trails around Landkreis Nordhausen.
What cultural institutions can I visit in Nordhausen?
Nordhausen hosts several cultural sites. The Flohburg | Das Nordhausen Museum provides insights into urban history, while the IFA Museum preserves the history of mechanical engineering. You can also visit the Echter Nordhäuser Traditionsbrennerei to learn about the region's long tradition of schnapps production, or enjoy exhibitions at the Kunsthaus Meyenburg.
Is there a historic railway in the area?
Yes, the Harz Narrow-Gauge Railway starts its journey in Nordhausen. This historic railway, with its steaming locomotives, offers a scenic ride through the Harz Mountains, all the way up to the legendary Brocken mountain.
Are there any unique or lesser-known attractions worth visiting?
Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting the Two-Country Oak (Zweiländereiche) and Harz Border Trail marker, a historical site marking the former inner-German border. The Neustädter Talsperre (Neustadt Dam HWN 218) is also noted for its distinctive, older architectural style.
What is the best time to visit Landkreis Nordhausen?
The region offers attractions year-round. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and cycling, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer allows for enjoying the lakes and outdoor activities, while winter can offer unique experiences for those interested in winter hikes, especially in the Harz Mountains.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Landkreis Nordhausen?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views from viewpoints like the Poppenberg Tower (HWN 92) and the medieval setting of Hohnstein Castle Ruins (HWN 98). The diverse natural landscapes, from the karst region to the Harz foreland, are also highly appreciated, along with the well-maintained hiking trails and family-friendly options like the Sophienhof Goat Alm (HWN 097).
Are there places to eat or rest near the main attractions?
Yes, many attractions offer facilities. For instance, there's a very good restaurant just below the Hohnstein Castle Ruins (HWN 98). The Sophienhof Goat Alm (HWN 097) features a farm shop with local products and a cafe. Additionally, several viewpoints and hiking spots, like the Stiefmutter Shelter and Ilfeld Weather Vane, have benches or refuges for resting.
Most popular routes around Landkreis Nordhausen
Most popular attractions around Landkreis Nordhausen
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
