4.6
(1844)
7,551
hikers
708
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Naturschutzgebiet "Dörnaer Platz" offer diverse landscapes shaped by past military use and current sheep grazing. This 183-hectare nature reserve, integrated into the European Natura 2000 network, features a variety of habitats including lean grasslands, calcareous grasslands, shrubs, orchards, and smaller forest areas. Hikers can explore the floodplain of the Hollenbacher Steingraben and numerous small water bodies, providing varied scenery and ecological zones. The interconnected network of these habitats forms the basis for rich biodiversity, making…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.8
(51)
151
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
40
hikers
5.94km
01:35
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.1
(13)
32
hikers
5.69km
01:31
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
21
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
5.20km
01:24
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A bridge appears to have once crossed the moat here. From above, you can still make out the foundations, and from the moat, they are clearly visible.
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Planted in 1992 by forester Pippert, the small sequoia has already shot up considerably
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Avoid in autumn
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When crossing the Steingraben, you drive or push your bike past the Ackermann table. A stone table and bench that remind you of historical times.
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The Wendel Hut in the Unstrut-Hainich district offers a comfortable place to rest.
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a beautiful place to rest
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One of several new shelters has been built in the forest here. It's really beautifully done and the location is perfect. You can relax here and enjoy the view of the forest and meadow. Before, there was only a small wooden bench here, which can be seen in the first picture.
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A place steeped in history....
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Naturschutzgebiet "Dörnaer Platz" offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families, with over 700 hiking trails in total. More than 400 of these are rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.
The reserve boasts a diverse landscape, perfect for curious young explorers. You'll encounter lean and calcareous grasslands, scattered orchards, small forest areas, and numerous small water bodies. The floodplain of the Hollenbacher Steingraben also adds to the varied scenery, offering a rich environment for observing nature.
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the easy Günther Eiche – Schäfersbrunnen Rest Area loop from Dörnaer Platz is a great option, covering about 5.9 km.
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Naturschutzgebiet "Dörnaer Platz", with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 1,600 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse natural landscapes, the peaceful atmosphere, and the well-maintained paths that make it enjoyable for all ages.
Absolutely! Some routes are designed with family amenities in mind. Consider the moderate Covered Picnic Shelter – Playground With Barbecue Area loop from Dörnaer Platz, which includes a playground and barbecue area, perfect for a family break.
While many trails are generally accessible, the terrain in Naturschutzgebiet "Dörnaer Platz" can vary, including grasslands and forest paths. For stroller-friendly options, we recommend choosing the easier, shorter routes and checking the route details for surface information to ensure suitability for your specific stroller type.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the hiking trails in Naturschutzgebiet "Dörnaer Platz". However, as it is a nature reserve, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash to protect wildlife and respect other visitors. Always carry bags to clean up after your pet.
The reserve offers unique beauty throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days and warmer weather, though shaded forest sections provide relief. Consider visiting during spring or early autumn for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
Yes, for families with very young children or those looking for a shorter stroll, the White House Forest Inn – Wendel Hut loop from Dörnaer Platz is an easy option, approximately 5.6 km long and taking about 1.5 hours.
Parking availability can vary depending on your chosen starting point. Many trailheads and popular access points around Dörnaer Platz offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information related to your chosen family hike.
Absolutely. The diverse habitats, including grasslands, forests, and small water bodies, support a rich variety of species. Keep an eye out for birds, insects, and small mammals. The area's past as a military training ground and current sheep grazing have created unique ecological niches that foster biodiversity.


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