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Germany
Thuringia
Ilm-Kreis

Plaue

Top 20 Natural Monuments around Plaue

Natural monuments around Plaue are located within the Thuringian Forest, a region characterized by rolling hills and dense forests. This area offers diverse opportunities for exploring natural landscapes, including routes along the Ilm River. Plaue provides a setting for nature enthusiasts to discover various geological features and scenic viewpoints. The landscape is suitable for outdoor activities and observing local flora and fauna.

Best natural monuments around Plaue

  • The most popular natural monuments is Burnt Stone Tunnel, a cave that…

Last updated: June 24, 2026

Kickelhahn Tower

Highlight • Viewpoint

The dining room above is recommended, delicious and good!

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Burnt Stone Tunnel

Highlight • Cave

Unexpected - unique - beautiful.
A tunnel steeped in history, after which an incredibly beautiful view opens up. Be sure to take a break and enjoy the view.🥰

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Upper Sieglitz Pond

Highlight • Lake

Idyllic lake with nice rest stop.

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Goethe Cabin on Kickelhahn

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“Over all peaks there is peace…” Goethe wrote on the wall of this small refuge on September 6, 1780. Because of these verses that were written here and later became …

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Goethe Cave at Hermannstein

Highlight • Cave

The perfect break. By the way, you can explore the cave with which Goethe also impressed Frau von Stein. It was probably carved into the rock as a guardhouse in …

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Popular around Plaue

There is no off-season — Germany's low mountain ranges

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There is no off-season — Germany's low mountain ranges

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𝕾𝖙𝖊𝖕𝖍𝖆𝖓
December 9, 2023, Ausgebrannter Stein Tunnel

The burnt out stone at Oberhof is an artificial breakthrough through the rock. It was important for the Lütsche Flößgraben when it was built. The alternation of fire and ice-cold water made the stone brittle and could be worked with mining tools. A 38 m long, 2.3 m high and 2.2 m wide tunnel was created. If you follow the path further you come to the “Hohen Stein” with a wonderful view. The path back to Oberhof leads past the upper Sieglitzteich. Source: http://www.wandern-im-thueringer-wald.de/ausbrenner-stein-luetsche-floessgraben

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It was probably here that Goethe wrote his poem "Over all summits is peace" in pencil on a wooden wall on the upper floor on the evening of September 6, 1780. The picturesque shed is therefore of great cultural and historical importance.

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The tunnel was built by miners in 1704. You can easily walk through it without a lamp. In winter there are wonderful icicles. A nice highlight on the hike.

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It's really cute. With a bench and refreshment for your feet

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If you have time and muse and the weather is good, you should definitely watch a sunset or a sunrise. The view of the surrounding area is breathtaking for our low mountain range. Definitely recommended. If available, also like to pack the binoculars. One or the other detail wants to be spotted.

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A small idyllic lake. Take a short break and enjoy the moment

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Goethe's house on the Kickelhahn "Above all the peaks there is peace..." Goethe wrote on the wall of this small refuge on September 6, 1780. Because of these verses that were written here and later became world famous, it was soon called the "Goethe House".

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Scotty 🦊
January 4, 2021, Kickelhahnturm

A great destination with a great view 😊🦊

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of natural monuments can I explore around Plaue?

The region around Plaue, nestled in the Thuringian Forest, offers a diverse range of natural monuments. You can discover unique geological features like the Burnt Stone Tunnel, which is a medieval tunnel winding through rock, and various viewpoints offering expansive vistas. There are also serene lakes such as Upper Sieglitz Pond, and historical caves like the Goethe Cave at Hermannstein.

Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Thuringian Forest near Plaue?

Yes, the area boasts several excellent viewpoints. The Kickelhahn Tower is a prominent lookout tower from 1855 that provides extensive views over the surrounding area. Similarly, the Burnt Stone Tunnel also offers a beautiful view upon exiting the tunnel.

What historical sites are integrated with the natural monuments around Plaue?

Several natural monuments in Plaue have significant historical connections. The Kickelhahn Tower area includes the Goethe house. Nearby, the Goethe Cabin on Kickelhahn is a historical refuge where Goethe famously wrote a poem. Additionally, the Goethe Cave at Hermannstein was frequently visited by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments in Plaue?

The natural monuments around Plaue are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, such as the 'Gera River in Plaue – Gerawehr Waterfall loop', or explore the region by touring bicycle with routes like 'Ried Gate and Jakobsturm – Weir on the Gera loop'. For more options, check out the MTB Trails around Plaue and Cycling around Plaue guides.

Are there family-friendly natural monuments or activities in the Plaue area?

Yes, many natural monuments around Plaue are suitable for families. The Kickelhahn Tower and Burnt Stone Tunnel are both considered family-friendly highlights. The Upper Sieglitz Pond offers a quiet place for relaxation, which can be enjoyable for families. The Vessertal-Thüringenwald Nature Park, near Plaue, is also particularly suitable for families to explore nature.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Plaue?

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for visiting the natural monuments around Plaue. Spring brings colorful flower meadows, while autumn transforms the landscape with golden leaves, offering particularly picturesque conditions for hiking and exploring the Thuringian Forest.

Are there easy hiking trails near the natural monuments in Plaue?

Yes, there are several easy hiking trails available. For example, you can find routes like the 'Mensch Sculpture – Flying Cow Sculpture loop' or the 'Weir on the Gera – View of the Geratal loop'. These trails offer accessible ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. More options can be found in the Easy hikes around Plaue guide.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the natural monuments in Plaue?

Visitors frequently praise the unexpected beauty and unique experiences offered by the natural monuments. The Burnt Stone Tunnel is often described as 'unique' with an 'incredibly beautiful view' upon exit. The Upper Sieglitz Pond is appreciated as a 'nice quiet place to relax', especially at dusk. The views from places like Kickelhahn Tower are consistently highlighted as 'great'.

Can I find places to eat or rest near the natural monuments?

Yes, some natural monuments offer facilities for rest and refreshments. The Kickelhahn Tower area includes a restaurant, and the Goethe Cabin on Kickelhahn is a hut that serves as a refuge. The Upper Sieglitz Pond also has a nice rest stop. The Ilm River area, part of the Thuringian Forest, is known for scenic spots ideal for picnicking.

What kind of natural landscape characterizes the Plaue region?

The Plaue region is situated within the Thuringian Forest, characterized by rolling hills and dense forests. The landscape is shaped by the Ilm River, offering idyllic views and diverse natural settings. It's an area rich in flora and fauna, providing a classic Central German forest experience.

Are there any challenging trails or climbs associated with the natural monuments?

Yes, some natural monuments involve more challenging sections. For instance, reaching the Goethe Cave at Hermannstein involves steep and narrow steps, requiring sure-footedness. The Burnt Stone Tunnel is also categorized as challenging, offering a more adventurous experience.

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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Plaue:

GeschwendaGräfenrodaGerabergGehlbergFrankenhainSchmiedefeld am RennsteigIlmenauElgersburgStützerbachFrauenwaldMartinrodaAngelrodaLangewiesenLiebensteinNeustadt am RennsteigGehrenGosselGroßbreitenbachAltenfeldNeusißHerschdorfAmt WachsenburgFriedersdorfWipfratalGillersdorfWildenspringStadtilmDornheimArnstadtOsthausen-WülfershausenEllebenAlkerslebenStadtilmBösleben-WüllerslebenPennewitzRockhausenWitzleben

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