Harzer Klosterwanderweg - 4th Stage - Wernigerode to Blankenburg (Track updated 8.2.24 m...

Short description

4th stage of the Harzer Klosterwanderweg from the marketplace in Wernigerode to the Schnappelberg in Blankenburg.

Description

This demanding 18 km long stage is worth the effort, Wernigerode alone is worth a longer stay. The town hall in its known form today dates back to the year 1540 and annually fascinates countless guests of the city. The path now leads through the old town towards Lustgarten. The park belongs to the overall ensemble of Wernigerode Castle, which towers high above the city and is clearly visible from afar. A detour to St. Johns Church is worthwhile, the oldest preserved church in Wernigerode in its Romanesque structure, an angel bench invites you to rest.

Leaving the city, the path follows along the edge of the forest towards the settlement of Wolfsholz. The Klosterwanderweg crosses the main road and continues along the Austberg towards Benzingerode. Shortly before reaching the village, there is a magnificent view of the Harz foothills from the Austbergturm, a watchtower built around 1250.

In Benzingerode, you pass by the striking church built in the neo-Romanesque style around 1900, which features wall paintings inside. An asphalt path leads below the Struvenberg and Ziegenberg. After crossing the main road between Heimburg and Elbingerode, the path continues on a gravel path downhill towards Kloster Michaelstein. The monastery, founded in 1146, is still located away from urban life. Until the 16th century, Cistercian monks lived, prayed, and worked here. Today, the premises house the Music Academy of Saxony-Anhalt: the cloister buildings and the monastery garden are open to the public. A forest path leads past the Bast ponds and over Eichenberg, offering a beautiful view over Blankenburg. Upon arriving in the town of Blütenstadt, you will be guided through the old town, where the next stamp can be collected at St. Bartholomews Mountain Church. The parish church was built after 1200, converted into a monastery church in the mid-13th century, and has been a parish church again since 1532. In Blankenburg, be sure to visit the baroque gardens from the Tourist Information Office!

Further information

Information about Kloster Himmelpforte in Wernigerode on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kloster_Himmelpforten_(Harz)

For information and assistance in planning your hike, visit the Tourist Information Office in Wernigerode: www.wernigerode-tourismus.de

www.kloster-michaelstein.de

Harzer Wandernadel Service Office www.harzer-wandernadel.de

Blankenburg Tourist Information Office www.blankenburg.de

If you prefer not to walk on the asphalt road from Benzingerode, you can take the alternative route on the ridge path. Those who choose this path will be rewarded with ups and downs and a fantastic view of the Harz foothills. Wernigerode Castle is unique - dont miss out: the architecture, exhibitions, and view from the castle square are something very special. If you prefer not to hike uphill: take the Bimmelbahn! At Kloster Michaelstein, take a look at the unique medieval monastery garden, the Gothic cloister, and the music exhibition. Especially noteworthy is Salomon de Caus musical machine! In Blankenburg, be sure to visit the baroque gardens, ideally take the small circular tour around the large castle through the mountain and castle gardens for a fantastic view over Blankenburg and the Harz foothills.

Arrival information

Parking information

Wernigerode: Feldstraße parking lot, parking lot directly behind the main train station, city center about 10 minutes walk away, Am Eichberg street (cemetery), Friedrichstraße

Blankenburg Theaterstraße, 38889 Blankenburg (Harz)

Safety information

It is recommended to have hiking equipment suitable for the weather conditions.