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.
Last updated: September 27, 2026
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The 'ausgebrannter Stein' (burnt-out stone) near Oberhof is an artificially created breakthrough through the rock. It was important for the Lütsche Flößgraben at the time of its construction. The alternation of fire and ice-cold water made the stone brittle and workable with mining tools. This created a tunnel 38 m long, 2.3 m high, and 2.2 m wide. If you continue along the path, you will reach the 'Hoher Stein' (high stone) with a magnificent view. The way back to Oberhof leads past the upper Sieglitzteich. Source: http://www.wandern-im-thueringer-wald.de/ausgebrannter-stein-luetsche-floessgraben
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Beautiful views of several valleys. Here you can see the railway line winding through the area.
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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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Even because of Goethe's short stays here, the Kickelhahn and the buildings located here are 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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Wonderful view, of course, in nice weather and without fog.
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It's really cute. With a bench and refreshment for your feet
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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'.
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.
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.
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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