The best walks and hikes around Dam Werda

Nice place to linger and enjoy the view

The Poppenstein is located on the northern shore of the Werda Dam. The Poppenstein and the neighboring small rock formations are composed of fruit or knotted slate. This clay slate, formed approximately 500 million years ago, was transformed and hardened under the influence of upwelling magmatic melt. The small pits on the rock's surface are the result of chemical weathering, where embedded minerals were dissolved out. (Information panel at the Poppenstein)

The covered rest area offers beautiful views of the Geigenbach Valley. The Scheibenhäuser (disk houses) are an important part of the cultural history of the Vogtland region and bear witness to the The Scheibenhäuser (disk houses) can be reached from various directions. They are located in the Geigenbach Valley, away from traffic noise, surrounded by the villages of Grünbach/Siehdichfür, Neudorf, Poppengrün, and Neustadt. Since their inception, the four houses have belonged to Neustadt in terms of land use, and to Grünbach in terms of economics (railway) and education. Among the few houses was a restaurant that was very popular with everyone in the area, the "Steinpilz." Unfortunately, it hasn't existed for many years. Although the houses are located in the dam catchment area, they have managed to survive. The Scheibe (disk) has represented a field name from the very beginning, a flat, level piece of land surrounded by hills and mountains. A hike there is highly recommended, as it leads through the charming surroundings of Grünbach.

The hiking trail along the dam is dotted with interesting information panels about the flora and fauna in and around the dam. It is in very good condition and easy to walk on. Sturdy footwear is recommended, however. Below the path marked as Felsenweg 3b, a narrow path runs directly along the shore of the dam. Be careful, there are a few scrambles along the rocks; the path is not marked or signposted. The reward for your efforts are impressive views of the dam.

Route 3a complements the rocky paths with a varied tour offering beautiful views as far as the Lower Vogtland region. The route leads through a charming hilly landscape, nestled in the small town of Werda. Forests, meadows, and fields alternate, repeatedly offering views into the distance. The highlight is the ascent to the 676-meter-high Eimberg near Kottengrün, with sweeping views of the Elster Valley. Hikers encounter rock formations again on the sister route 3b. Rocky Path 3b leads hikers into the forests of the Geigenbach Valley and around the Werda Dam, which reflects the forest and sky like a mirror. From the forest valley, hikers continue out onto the open heights around Neustadt, all the way to the gates of Falkenstein. Along the way, hikers are surprised by more than just romantic rock formations, inviting them to linger. Charming views, some of which extend as far as Thuringia, also beckon hikers through Poppengrün, Neustadt, and Oberwinn. The Lochstein invites you to take a short rest, and a detour to Falkenstein and the castle rock is also recommended. Near Grünbach, Felsenweg 3b takes a detour over the Wendelstein. Here you'll encounter the landmark of the Felsenweg trails, the "Löwenkopf" rock formation. (https://www.vogtland-tourismus.de/mobile/de/tour/themenweg/felsenweg-3b-sagenhafte-ein-und-ausblicke/801015206)

Small and manageable, and suitable for everyone – that's how the ski lift on the outskirts of Werda presents itself. The approximately 400-meter-long ski slope is particularly suitable for families with children and beginners. The ski area also includes a "mountain station" – a ski hut where you can warm up and refuel. The Werda winter sports area lies at an altitude of 609 to 648 meters. The ski lift is open on weekends during the winter months. (https://www.vogtland-tourismus.de/mobile/de/poi/skilift/ski-und-rodelhang-werda/65703774 )

A small village church with an old cemetery and wonderful old gravestones in the center of Werda, near Schöneck. The village church was first documented in 1452 in connection with the plundering of cows by Eger mercenaries. (https://www.vogtland-tourismus.de/mobile/de/poi/kirche/st.-katharinenkirche-werda/23509406 )

Covered rest area between meadow and forest, a few meters north of the Scheibenhäuser.