TOP-Hiking trail Iberg experience

The next TOP hiking trail was explored today in initially overcast weather ☁️. From the designated hiking parking lot, some altitude meters had to be covered to reach the Ibergwarte. Of course, we fearlessly climbed the lattice steps (outside) and the two ladders in the tower to arrive at the upper level. The Ibergwarte is one of the few remaining Heiligenstadt watchtowers. We continued towards Pferdebachtal and "Neun Brunnen" (the name refers to nine springs). The next ascent was a bit sluggish until we reached the primeval forest educational trail (Urwaldlehrpfad). Through a beech-yew forest, which is in its natural phase of decay and regeneration, we hiked on narrow and rooty paths. It was wonderful 🪵. The next two highlights were the Maienwand (with a wonderful view into the Luttertal) and the Elisabethhöhe. After the descent, the next ascent was not far, and we soon reached the Klöppelsklus, a forest chapel on the Geleitstraße. The Klöppelsklus got its name from its "Klöppel" (bells), which were rung to signal approaching carriages so they wouldn't collide on the narrow paths. A final highlight was the Drei-Linden-Kapelle with a beautiful crucifix. We treated ourselves to coffee and cake in the hotel bar 😀.

Start / Finish: Heiligenstadt Train Station Route: Ibergrandweg - Schlängelweg - Ibergwarte - Neun Brunnen - Langes Tal - Maienwand - Elisabethhöhe - Kreuzweg - Paradiesblick - Klöppelsklus - Kurfürstenstein - Drei Linden Chapel - Gasthaus Iberg The start of the top hiking trail also marks the destination of the circular hike. The trail is signposted throughout with a white T on a green circle. The trail has been certified "Dream Tour" by the German Hiking Association "Wanderbares Deutschland" (Hiking in Germany). Numerous cultural, historical, and natural history discoveries can be found on this 453 m high limestone ridge. In addition to numerous beech trees, this area also boasts one of the largest stands of yew trees in Germany. I can wholeheartedly recommend today's tour, although basic fitness is required for the moderately difficult trail. 🤪. 👍😊🍀

A beautiful hike in perfect weather. Easy to walk even though it's always up and down. Wonderful view from the Maiwand rest area.

A beautiful hike, albeit with some very steep sections. Lots of beautiful yew trees along the way.

From a parking lot on Ägidienstr. we started the TOP hike experience Iberg. The tour leads up to the Iberg Warte. You can reach the top using ladders and enjoy the view of Heiligenstadt. Via the great Maienwand viewpoint you go over the Elisabeth Höhe to the Medirianstein and finally via the Gasthaus am Iberg back to the parking lot. Nice tour, which would have been even nicer if an inn had been open.

Today's tour took me once again to the Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werratal Nature Park. The TOP hiking trail Erlebnis Iberg leads through the city forest of Heiligenstadt. Despite the sun, it was only 10°C at the start of my tour and a gusty wind drove the clouds over the horizon at high speed, making the perceived temperature seem even cooler. I started below the Iberg House to take beautiful hiking trails up to the Iberg-Warte, which dates back to the 14th century and can be climbed. Now it's back down the valley past the "Neun Brunnen" recreation park with its idyllic pond and further through the "Lange Tal". Shortly before the Marienwand, a primeval forest nature trail invites you to discover the mixed beech forest. At the next AP "Marienwand" a fantastic view opens up into the distance. The route then continues along beautiful forest paths to Elisabethhöhe. At this AP you have a wonderful view of the small town of Uder, surrounded by hills. On the Elisabethhöhe there is also a small chapel in honor of Elisabeth of Thuringia, who was later canonized. The Stationsweg leads down to the next AP on the Paradiesweg with a view of Heiligenstadt. Now it goes past the Klöppelsklus chapel up to the 453m high Iberg. Past the Kürfürstenstein, built in 1777, and a little later the Drei-Linden chapel, the path leads down serpentines to the Iberg-Haus, where you can enjoy a culinary treat. Further information about this really beautiful hiking trail can be found here https://www.naturpark-ehw.de/weg/top-wanderweg-erlebnis-iberg

TOP hiking trail - Iberg experience (Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werratal nature park) ------------------------------ "Quality Trail Wanderable Germany" https://www.naturpark-ehw.de/aktiv/wanderwege/top-wanderweg-erlebnis-iberg.html ------------------------------ Touringen stamp offices: > 73 - Maienwand ------------------------------

I have to say, this really is a "top hiking trail". The trails are top-notch, there is a lot to see, and plenty of places to sit. Even if it's a bit of a shortcut, it's highly recommended.