Braunlage: the heart of the Harz, where nature, history and adventure come together

Braunlage is located on the southern edge of the Harz Mountains, in the German state of Lower Saxony. This attractive mountain town has been one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Harz for more than a century. Thanks to the combination of extensive forests, impressive mountain landscapes, excellent hiking and winter sports opportunities and a rich history, Braunlage attracts thousands of visitors every year from Germany, the Netherlands and other European countries. Whether you are looking for an active holiday, relaxation in nature or an introduction to the special history of the Harz: Braunlage has something for everyone.

From mining to tourism

The history of Braunlage dates back to the 13th century. The first written mention dates from 1253. The development of the village was closely related to the presence of iron ore in the area. During the Middle Ages and the following centuries, mining and iron processing were the main sources of income. The surrounding forests also provided charcoal for the blast furnaces. In the 19th century, the importance of mining slowly declined. At the same time, more and more travelers discovered the healthy mountain air and beautiful nature of the Harz. Braunlage therefore developed into a popular health resort. Hotels, guesthouses and hiking trails appeared, gradually making tourism the main economic pillar.

After the Second World War, Braunlage acquired a special geographical position. The town was only a few kilometers from the border between West and East Germany. The closely guarded border made much of the Harz inaccessible for years. Only after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 could visitors freely travel through the entire mountain range again. Since then, the former border has been a historically and touristically interesting part of the region.

The Wurmberg: highest mountain in Lower Saxony

The absolute eye-catcher of Braunlage is the Wurmberg. With a height of 971 meters, this is the highest mountain in Lower Saxony and one of the most famous peaks of the Harz. From the center, the modern cable car takes visitors to the top in about fifteen minutes. During the ride, a beautiful view unfolds over the vast forests and mountains. On clear days the panorama extends far into Saxony-Anhalt. Once you reach the top, several walking routes have been set out and there are viewpoints, catering establishments and play facilities for children. The remains of historic border installations also remind us of the time when the Wurmberg was located directly on the Iron Curtain.

A paradise for hikers

Braunlage is one of the best bases for hikers in the Harz. Dozens of well-marked routes depart from the center, ranging from short family walks to challenging day trips. A popular destination is the Brocken (1,141 meters), the highest mountain in northern Germany. The tour from Braunlage is one of the most beautiful walks in the region and leads through dense spruce forests, raised moor landscapes and open mountain slopes. The Brocken is not only known for its impressive view, but also for the many sagas and legends in which witches and ghosts play a leading role. Braunlage is also part of the extensive network of the 'Harzer Wandernadel'. Hikers can collect stamps at dozens of checkpoints, which is especially popular with avid hikers.

Mountain biking and cycling

Mountain bikers also get their money's worth. There is an extensive network of routes for different levels around the Wurmberg. The Wurmberg Bike Park has challenging downhill courses, technical trails and training areas for beginners. For recreational cyclists, there are quieter routes through the valleys and forests, with cozy mountain restaurants and viewpoints inviting you to stop along the way.

The winter sports center of northern Germany

Braunlage is without a doubt the most famous winter sports resort in northern Germany. As soon as the snow falls, the Wurmberg turns into a lively ski area with slopes for both beginners and advanced skiers. In addition to alpine skiing, there are opportunities for snowboarding, tobogganing and cross-country skiing. Modern snow cannons ensure that the winter sports season often lasts longer than elsewhere in the Harz. This makes Braunlage an attractive alternative for winter sports enthusiasts who do not want to travel to the Alps.

Harz National Park

Braunlage borders directly on the Harz National Park, one of the largest protected nature reserves in Germany. Here, nature is given as much space as possible to develop without human intervention. Visitors can discover centuries-old beech forests, vast spruce forests, mountain streams and special raised bog areas. The park is rich in wildlife such as deer, wild cats, lynx and numerous bird species. The reintroduction of the lynx in particular has proven to be a great success. Due to climate change and attack by the bark beetle, spruce forests have largely disappeared. In many places, however, a new, varied forest is emerging in which deciduous trees gradually gain the upper hand. As a result, the landscape is constantly changing.

The Brockenbahn

A visit to Braunlage can easily be combined with a ride on the famous Brockenbahn. This historic steam train runs from various places in the Harz to the top of the Brocken. Although Braunlage itself has no station, the nearby Drei Annen Hohne is a short drive away. The nostalgic steam locomotives are one of the most famous tourist attractions of the Harz and attract railway enthusiasts from all over Europe.

Cozy center

The center of Braunlage has a relaxed holiday atmosphere. Along the main street there are numerous restaurants, cafes, ice cream parlors, shops and hotels. The terraces provide a lively appearance, especially in the summer. Regional specialties such as game dishes, trout from the Harz and hearty German mountain fare are on almost every menu. Lovers of coffee and cake will also find plenty of choice in the traditional cafés. Markets, music performances and local events are regularly organized, making the center attractive even outside the holiday periods.

Excursions in the area

Braunlage is an excellent starting point for excursions throughout the Harz. Popular destinations include the historic half-timbered town of Wernigerode, the UNESCO city of Goslar with its medieval town center and the impressive Rappbodetalsperre with one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world. History lovers can also indulge themselves along the former border between East and West Germany, where information centers and monuments in various places recall the period of German division.

A destination for all seasons

What makes Braunlage special is that the town is attractive all year round. In spring and summer, walking, cycling and nature experiences dominate. Autumn colors the forests in warm tones and is ideal for long walks. In winter, Braunlage turns into the largest winter sports center in northern Germany. Thanks to the combination of impressive nature, a rich history, excellent recreational facilities and a hospitable atmosphere, Braunlage is one of the most versatile destinations in the Harz. For Dutch holidaymakers, who can reach the Harz in a few hours by car, the town has been a popular base for an active holiday in the middle of the German mountains for many years.

More information