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Drachenschlucht: How to get there, circular hiking trails and all information about the mystical gorge in Thuringia
Inhalt
Discover the fascinating world of Drachenschlucht - a magical place full of natural beauty, mystical legends and unforgettable hiking adventures. Explore the enchanted paths lined with sheer rock faces and discover the rich history and mysterious stories that make this gorge so unique. Welcome to a place that inspires the senses and touches the soul - welcome to the Drachenschlucht!
Why you should visit the Drachenschlucht
© Photo: Artem Dontsov, CC BY-SA 3.0
- Natural beauty and hiking experience: The gorge offers a breathtaking natural environment with steep rock faces, moss-covered stones and a picturesque stream. It is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers who want to enjoy the beauty of nature.
- Mythology and legends: The Drachenschlucht is interwoven with legends and fairy tales that make it even more captivating. The name comes from the legend of a dragon that is said to have once lived in this gorge. The mystical atmosphere and history attract many visitors who want to experience the legends.
- Hiking possibilities: The paths in the Drachenschlucht offer a variety of hiking options for all levels of difficulty. From leisurely strolls to more challenging trails, the gorge offers a suitable route for every hiking enthusiast.
- Adventure and relaxation: For adventure-seekers, the Drachenschlucht offers an exciting environment to gather new impressions and relax in nature. It is a place to escape from everyday life and lose yourself in a unique landscape.
- Cultural significance: The Drachenschlucht is not only a natural jewel, but also a place of cultural significance. Historic paths and the remains of old buildings tell stories from times gone by and offer an insight into the history of the region.
All the facts about the Drachenschlucht
The Drachenschlucht, an approximately 2 kilometre long gorge near Eisenach in Thuringia, impresses with steep rock faces and a wild stream. Originally developed in the 19th century, it now attracts hikers and nature lovers. The gorge is rich in various tree species such as beech, oak and fir and is home to a variety of animal species such as foxes, badgers and rare bird species. It is also known for its legend of a dragon that is said to have once lived there. With its winding paths and unique natural splendour, the Drachenschlucht is a popular excursion destination that combines nature experience and mystical atmosphere.
Here is an overview of the most important facts about the Drachenschlucht.
| Developed | since 1832, by Gottlob König and others |
|---|---|
| Length | approx. 3 km |
| Narrowest point | 70 cm |
| Visitors | around 100,000 per year |
| Nature conservation | yes, since 1977 |
| Flora | acidophilous oak-beech forest |
| Fauna | including fire salamanders and toads |
These hiking trails are available in the Drachenschlucht
© Photo: Stephan van Helden, CC BY-SA 4.0
Circular hiking trails in the Drachenschlucht offer you the opportunity to explore this impressive natural landscape in all its diversity. The various circular trails lead along the steep rock faces, through dense forests and along the picturesque stream. Hikers can view the gorge from different angles and experience nature in all its splendour.
The routes lead past striking rock formations, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area and allow you to feel the mystical atmosphere of the gorge. Along the way, you will pass special spots such as idyllic resting places or viewpoints that invite you to linger and enjoy. The lengths of the circular routes vary, but offer all hikers, regardless of their level of experience, the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Drachenschlucht and enjoy the unique natural scenery.
Here is an overview of some interesting circular walks.
| Hike | Start | Destination | Viewpoints | Length | Duration | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Circular hike through Drachenschlucht and Landgrafenschlucht | B19, Bus stop Mariental | B19, Bus stop Mariental | Landgrafenschlucht, Wooden staircase, Oxen stable, View to Wartburg Castle, Small waterfall, Narrowest part of Drachenschlucht | 13 km | 4 hours | medium |
| Circular hike via Hohe Sonne through Drachenschlucht | Car parking Hohe Sonne | Car parking Hohe Sonne | View of Wartburg Castle, Drachenschlucht, Narrowest part of Drachenschlucht | 12 km | 3.5 hours | medium |
| Circular hike through Drachenschlucht | B19, Bus stop Mariental | B19, Bus stop Mariental | Droll forest spirit, wooden bridge in the Drachenschlucht, waterfall, narrowest part of the Drachenschlucht, Thuringian primeval forest trails | 11 km | 3 hours | mittel |
| Drachenschlucht circuit from the centre of Eisenach | Car park Zentrum Eisenach Süd | Car park Zentrum Eisenach Süd | Wichmann promenade, wooden bridge in the Drachenschlucht, narrowest part of the Drachenschlucht, waterfall, Thuringian primeval forest trails | 7.6 km | 2 hours | medium |
Closure of the Drachenschlucht
© Stephan van Helden, CC BY-SA 4.0
The Drachenschlucht has no opening hours and is usually open to visitors and hikers all year round. Occasionally, however, there may be closures, for example due to renovation work on the fortifications or forestry work.
In winter, the Drachenschlucht is more difficult to walk through due to icy conditions. The passage is sometimes dangerous due to icicles that can come loose.
Incidentally, the Drachenschlucht is also accessible with dogs! However, bicycles are not allowed.
How to get there: How to get to the Drachenschlucht
On foot: Marked hiking trails lead from Eisenach to the Drachenschlucht. The starting point can vary depending on the hiking trail, but it is around 3-4 kilometres on foot from the town. For example, you could start in the town centre on the market square and head towards Wartburgallee/B19. You will reach the Drachenschlucht via the Prinzenteich, Mariental and the "Phantasie" venue.
By bus & train: The town's bus station is located right next to Eisenach railway station. From there, for example, you can take line 3 directly to the Drachenschlucht bus stop.
By car: If you are travelling by car, parking is available near the Drachenschlucht. There are car parks from which visitors can reach the entrance to the gorge. The exact address for your navigation device may be the car park near the gorge (search for "Drachenschlucht Eisenach, Mariental"). You could also park in the town of Eisenach. An overview of parking facilities can be found here.
Cover photo: Alexander Schäfer, CC BY-SA 3.0
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