Northern Germany's highest mountain with a breathtaking panorama and the legendary Brocken Railway.
At 1,141 meters, the Brocken is the highest peak in northern Germany and the landmark of the Harz Mountains. On a clear day, the view from the summit stretches over 100 kilometers - as far as the Fichtelgebirge and the Rhön.
Ascent on foot
The most popular hiking routes start in Schierke (approx. 2.5 hours), Torfhaus (approx. 2 hours) and Ilsenburg via the Heinrich Heine Trail (approx. 3.5 hours). From Lindnerhof in Lerbach, we recommend the route via Torfhaus - well signposted and scenically varied with moorland and spruce forests.
With the Brockenbahn
If you prefer a more leisurely ride, take the Harz narrow-gauge railroad. The steam locomotive puffs up to the summit from Wernigerode or Drei Annen Hohne - an experience in itself, especially in the snowy winter landscape. Tickets should be booked online 3-4 weeks in advance, especially in the high season and at weekends.
On the summit
The Brockenhaus awaits you at the top - a museum on the history of the mountain, from the witches' legend to the weather station and GDR border history. Until 1989, the Brocken was a restricted military area, and the Stasi wiretapping facility is now part of the exhibition. In good weather, the Brockengarten is well worth a visit - a high mountain garden with over 1,800 plant species.
Weather and best time to visit
The Brocken has fog on over 300 days a year and is known for extreme weather - wind speeds of over 250 km/h have been measured. The best time for clear visibility is September to October. In winter there is often snow until April. Warm clothing and sturdy footwear are a must, even in summer.
At a glance
Opening hours: Summit accessible all year round. Brockenhaus: daily 9:30-17:00.
Admission: Hike free of charge. Torfhaus parking lot: chargeable (by the hour, barrier system).
Brockenbahn: adults 65 € (return) / 43 € (one-way). Children 6-14: 39 € / 26 €. Afternoon fare: 55 € (return).
Start early in the morning (before 8 a.m.) - that's when the summit is still empty and the chance of a clear view is greatest. The route via Torfhaus is the quickest to reach from the Lindnerhof (approx. 25 minutes by car). Attention: The parking lot at Torfhaus is chargeable - alternatively park a little further away on the B4.
More experiences in the Harz
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