Best natural monuments around Crawinkel are situated within the Thuringian Forest, a region characterized by its elevated terrain and extensive woodlands. The area offers a variety of natural features, including prominent summits and scenic viewpoints. These natural landscapes provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the diverse environment. Crawinkel serves as a gateway to these natural attractions, which are integral to the region's appeal.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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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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Beautifully designed fountain surround, of course with painted violets
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Explorer of the Thuringian Forest. In 1829 he undertook the first continuous hike along the Rennsteig.
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You can't get more nature than on the 170km long Rennsteig. There are also a number of raised bogs to see.
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Here at 978 m you have a really great all-round view of other peaks in the Thuringian Forest and the Rhön, up to the Ettersberg near Weimar and Oberhof. With very good visibility, such as winter inversion weather conditions, the view extends to the Brocken in the Harz Mountains, to the Schneeberg (Fichtelgebirge) and to the western Ore Mountains. You can also see the “Wilde Gera” (A 71) motorway bridge, the largest arched bridge in Germany with a span of 252 m. https://schneekopf.eu/ And if you want, you can crack the 1000 meter mark here on the observation tower for three euros. Diligence also has its price.
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Very nice vantage point with a successful lookout tower
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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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we didn't have any water
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Around Crawinkel, you can discover unique sites like the Burnt Stone Tunnel, a 20-meter-long medieval tunnel created for wood removal, offering an unexpected experience and a great view. Another notable spot is the Schneekopf Summit and Observation Tower, the second-highest elevation in Thuringia, providing magnificent panoramic views.
The natural monuments in the Thuringian Forest offer breathtaking panoramic views. From the Schneekopf Summit, you can enjoy expansive vistas of the surrounding forest. Similarly, Plänckner's viewpoint on the Großer Beerberg provides a fantastic outlook over Suhl and, on clear days, as far as the Rhön and towards Coburg.
Yes, the Burnt Stone Tunnel is a natural monument with significant historical context. This unique tunnel was created in the Middle Ages to facilitate wood removal, making it a fascinating blend of natural feature and historical engineering.
Many natural monuments in the area are suitable for families. The Schneekopf Summit and Observation Tower and the Highest Point of the Rennsteig are both marked as family-friendly and offer accessible paths. The Violet fountain is also a pleasant spot for families to rest and enjoy fresh spring water.
The region around Crawinkel is excellent for hiking. You can find numerous trails leading to and around the natural monuments. For example, the easy hikes around Crawinkel include routes like the Thüringeti Lake – Nature Trail Wilde Weiden loop. The Highest Point of the Rennsteig is directly on the famous Rennsteig trail, offering a significant point for hikers.
Beyond hiking, the Thuringian Forest offers various outdoor activities. You can explore road cycling routes around Crawinkel, with options ranging from moderate to difficult. There are also running trails, such as the Thüringeti loop from Crawinkel, allowing you to experience the natural beauty at a faster pace.
The best time to visit the natural monuments around Crawinkel is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is most favorable for hiking and outdoor activities, and the Thuringian Forest is vibrant with lush greenery or autumn colors. Winter can also be beautiful for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, but some paths might be less accessible.
Yes, some natural monuments offer nearby facilities. For instance, the Schneekopf Summit has a hut (Neue Gehlberger Hütte) where you can stop for food and drinks. Near the Violet fountain, there's a bench with a table for lingering, and a restaurant (Bergbaute) is also nearby.
The trails to the natural monuments around Crawinkel vary in difficulty. Many are intermediate, such as those leading to the Schneekopf Summit and the Highest Point of the Rennsteig. However, there are also easy hikes available, like the Lütsche Dam loop, making the natural beauty accessible to various fitness levels.
Visitors frequently praise the magnificent panoramic views, especially from spots like the Schneekopf Summit and Plänckner's viewpoint. The unique and historical aspect of the Burnt Stone Tunnel is also a highlight. Many appreciate the opportunity to enjoy fresh air, beautiful scenery, and the well-maintained trails for hiking and cycling.
Generally, the Thuringian Forest is very dog-friendly, and most trails and natural areas welcome dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific regulations for protected areas or any facilities you plan to visit, but the general outdoor environment is suitable for exploring with your canine companion.
Yes, you can visit the Violet fountain, a charming natural spring offering crystal-clear, cool water. It's a lovely spot to pause and refresh during your explorations, especially after a hike.


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