Leisure in the Saale Valley
Leisure in the Saale Valley
Experience Pure Nature
Welcome
– where regional produce, freshness and enjoyment come together
In the picturesque Saale Valley, nature takes center stage. Whether leisurely strolls along the romantic Saale Valley or extended hikes to the Teufelskanzel – everyone finds their personal nature experience here. The idyllic landscape, the Saale, and numerous hiking trails make Ziegenrück a paradise for nature and hiking enthusiasts.
Hiking in the Saale Valley
These hiking routes offer an ideal mix of relaxation, natural enjoyment, and small challenges – perfect for unforgettable experiences in the Saale Valley. Whether you are walking alone, with friends, or with family, the nature around Ziegenrück invites exploration and enjoyment.
1. Hike:
Ziegenrück – Teufelskanzel
– Linkenmühle – Ziegenrück
Length:
- approx. 10 km
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Description:
This circular hike leads through the beautiful nature of the Saale Valley, offering breathtaking views of the Saale and the surrounding forests. The route mostly follows well-developed hiking trails, interspersed with narrow, adventurous paths.
Route:
- Start: Hotel am Schlossberg
Start at the hotel and follow the signs towards the Teufelskanzel. The path leads over stairs and past a snack bar. - Teufelskanzel (Devil’s Pulpit)
After the Reisertsruh shelter, continue along a field path and a challenging tree-root trail. Sure-footedness and good fitness required. - Restaurant Linkenmühle
From the Teufelskanzel, continue along the trail to the Linkenmühle campsite. The restaurant is ideal for a break. - Return to Ziegenrück
After the break, head back to the hotel via Paska.
2. Hike:
Walsburg Circular Trail
Route:
- Length: approx. 10 km
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Description:
This circular hike takes you into the idyllic nature of the Saale Valley and impresses with spectacular views of the Saale and its surroundings. The route combines well-developed hiking trails with narrow paths and promises varied experiences.
Route:
- Start: Hotel am Schlossberg Ziegenrück
Follow the exit towards the Saale cycling path, following signs to Walsburg. - Banks of the Saale
The path runs along the picturesque banks of the Saale. - Panoramic Path
Leads through the forest up to the elevated trails above the Saale. Numerous impressive photo opportunities. - Return:
Via the Hemmkoppe, you return to Ziegenrück.
3. Hike:
Ziegenrück – Hemmkoppe Circular Trail
Length: approx. 7.5 km | Duration: approx. 2–2.5 hours | Difficulty: moderate
This varied circular hike combines nature, technology, and beautiful views. You start at the hotel and first explore the Forest Experience Island with interactive stations, before hiking past the former.
Conrad power station up to the Sängerhütte and the Hemmkoppe viewpoint.
E-Bikes – Active Recreation in the Saale Valley
For those who want to explore the Saale Valley actively and effortlessly, our hotel has 4 e-bikes available. For just €25 per person per day, you can discover the beauty of the region on two wheels.
Use the well-developed forest paths or explore the most impressive section of the Saale Cycling Route. A particularly recommended tour takes you along the Saale to the impressive Burgk Castle, one of the highlights of the region.
Enjoy freedom and comfort on your exploration tour – with our e-bikes, every route becomes a pleasure!
Canoeing – Relaxation on the Saale
Discover the Saale from a new perspective – with a relaxing canoe trip along the idyllic Saale cascades.
Thanks to the gentle current, you enjoy a steady pace to reach your destination completely relaxed, experiencing the surrounding nature to the fullest.
Whether alone, as a couple, or in a group – a canoe trip on the Saale is the perfect adventure for those seeking relaxation and nature lovers. Get on board and let yourself drift!
Period: April to October
Pure Culture – Experiencing History and Architecture
Immerse yourself in the cultural diversity around Ziegenrück! Discover the numerous castles and palaces in the area, or be enchanted by the historic towns of the region.
Schloss Burgk
Historical tours, museum shop, and views of the Bleiloch Reservoir. Open-air concerts regularly held in the courtyard. Distance: approx. 25 min from the hotel.
Leuchtenburg
The medieval castle offers guided tours, the porcelain museum ‘Porcelain Worlds’, the Sky Walk of Wishes, and a panoramic restaurant. Distance: approx. 45 min from the hotel.
Burg Ranis
Ranis Castle stands majestically on a rocky plateau above the town of Ranis and is one of the most important cultural monuments in Thuringia. Over 240 meters long, it is one of the largest castles in the region. Its origins date back to the 11th century. The castle is only approx. 10 km from the hotel.
Café Ilse is picturesquely situated at the entrance to the over 1,000-year-old Ranis Castle. In a cozy country house atmosphere, you will find homemade cakes and pastries, freshly made ice cream, and high-quality coffee specialties.
Hohenwarte Dam & Passenger Boat Tours
Visit one of Germany’s largest reservoirs. The 75-meter-high dam offers a fantastic panoramic view from the top. On site, relax on a boat trip on the fjord-like Hohenwarte Reservoir and enjoy the landscape from the water.
Saalfeld Fairy Grottoes
Experience a fantastic underground world with stalactites, fairy worlds for children, grotto experiences, and a museum. Ideal for families. Distance: approx. 45 min from the hotel.
Saalfeld-Rudolstadt Leisure Activities
Explore historic towns such as Rudolstadt with the Schiller House, Heidecksburg Palace, or take part in experience-guided tours. A lovely half-day excursion for culture enthusiasts.
