Thuringian Forest & Slate Mountains/Franconian Forest

The Thuringian-Franconian section of the Green Belt, between Mitwitz and Mödlareuth, stretches almost to the Czech border. Mitwitz is considered by many to be the birthplace of the idea of protecting the Green Belt as a national nature heritage. Mödlareuth, once divided and called “Little Berlin” is, like its big brother, a symbol of division and reunification. The low mountain landscape stretches at altitudes from 300 to nearly 800 m above sea-level from the Upper Main hill country, via the Thuringian-Franconian Slate Mountains, to the Vogtland.

Valleys carved deeply into the hills, densely wooded slopes and panoramic plateaus create an attractive landscape relief with an ancient geological past. The Rennsteig ridge walk and the river Saale form delineations that are linguistic, religious, climatic and regional, in an area that was territorially split up well into the 19th century. Even today, historic boundary stones, and more recently, watchtowers and remains of the wall, testify to the 20th century division of Germany that has been overcome.

At the point where three nature parks meet, there are no limits to what nature and sports enthusiasts can do. The region is a veritable El Dorado for hikers and cyclists, winter and water sports enthusiasts. Under cover of trenches and barbed wire, wild ecological oases were able to develop. Forest areas, wet meadows, lowland moors, watercourses, quarries and hillside pastures form a colourful and species-rich mosaic of nature, and are last sanctuaries for the rich flora and fauna. A broad and diverse range of cultural events, with festivals, art exhibitions and historic castles provides a large choice of entertainment.

The health and well-being of guests is catered for in the health resorts and spas of Thuringia and Franconia. Customs and traditional crafts such as weaving, slate processing and basketry, are upheld with great passion, and are – just like the regional cuisine, with its culinary delights – from beer, bratwurst and dumplings, to the finest chocolates – present wherever you go.

View travel packages of Thuringian Forest & Slate Mountains/ Franconian Forest here (Only German language)

Further information about Thuringian Forest & Slate Mountains/ Franconian Forest here (Only German language)