So · 30. August · 06:00 · Berlin
*Journey to the Harz Mountain region, hike along some of the most impressive rock formations, and walk through the magical woodlands, which, according to mythology, are the home of witches and the devil.* Hike Distance: 10km Difficulty: Intermediate Discover the magic of the Bodetal Valley and magical Hexentanzplatz Join a bunch of like-minded hikers and join this legendary trail that takes you straight into the heart of the Harz Mountains. Taking the direct Harz Express train from Berlin, the hike climbs the picturesque town of Thale up to the famous Hexentanzplatz (the "Witches' Dance Floor"). Perched on a dramatic rocky plateau about 454 meters above sea level, this route treats you to some of the most striking gorge scenery in northern Europe. As you leave the town behind, you'll walk alongside the rushing waters of the Bode River before beginning your ascent into the deep, rugged granite ravines of the Bodetal nature reserve. The terrain offers an immersive and moderately challenging trek, winding upward through dense, ancient forests of beech and oak. The paths are well-established but can become uneven and rocky, rewarding your physical effort with stunning lookout points along the way. From these clearings, you'll get breathtaking panoramic views of the sheer cliff faces, the green thickets blanketing the valley floor, and the imposing Rosstrappe cliff rising directly across the gorge. Beyond the natural beauty, this hike is steeped in German folklore and cultural history. The Hexentanzplatz itself is famously known as an old Saxon cult site and the legendary gathering place for witches on Walpurgis Night (the eve of May 1st), a tradition that heavily inspired Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s masterpiece, Faust. Once you reach the top, the mystical atmosphere is brought to life by iconic metal sculptures of witches and devils, the historic Walpurgis Hall museum, and an open-air mountain theater, making the summit just as captivating as the journey up. After the hike, take the cable car down to the valley below, and enjoy a wonderful setting of the entire Harz. The hike will be lead by two experienced community guides, Raf and Lonely Planet author Daniel Cole. https://www.eventbrite.de/e/day-hiking-at-harz-mountains-bodetal-valley-tickets-1993825664234?aff=oddtdtcreator