Rennsteig
On historic ridge trails through the Thuringian Forest 🌲🥾✨
The Rennsteig is one of Germany’s most traditional long-distance hiking trails and has been a place of longing for hikers for over a hundred years. Stretching approximately 170 kilometers, it leads from Eisenach to Blankenstein along the ridge of the Thuringian Forest, uniquely connecting nature, history, and living tradition 🌄📜. Between the Werra and Saale rivers, you will experience a journey full of vastness, silence, and impressive vistas.
The beginning is already spectacular. Perched high above Eisenach is the Wartburg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a historic landmark of the region 🏰. From here, the path leads into the mystical Dragon’s Gorge (Drachenschlucht), where moss-covered rocks and narrow paths create an almost fairytale atmosphere 🌿. Step by step, you gain altitude and reach the "Großer Inselsberg," one of the most famous viewpoints in the Thuringian Forest ⛰️. The highest point of the route lies at 973 meters, offering sweeping views over the rolling hills of Central Germany.
The Rennsteig follows historic borderlines and ancient trade routes. Boundary stones and trail markers constantly serve as reminders of its long history. In Neustadt, the Rennsteig Museum invites you to dive deeper into the heritage of this special path 📖. And for those looking for a little change of pace along the way, the summer toboggan run in Ernstthal offers a brief, exhilarating moment on the journey 🎢.
Nature is omnipresent on the Rennsteig. Dense forests, wide plateaus, and quiet spring areas define the landscape 🌳💧. Particularly symbolic is the Werra spring, where many hikers pick up a small stone to carry it all the way to the finish line at the Saale river—a beautiful gesture that connects the entire route 🪨🌊.
The stages are well-maintained and generally pleasant to walk, though daily distances of eighteen to twenty-five kilometers require a good level of fitness 👣. Thanks to luggage transfer services, you can hike light and focus entirely on the impressions. The mix of scenic ridge paths, historic sites, and peaceful nature makes the Rennsteig a truly special experience.
The Rennsteig is more than just a hiking trail. It is a piece of German hiking culture, a path full of stories, and a place to feel the power of nature. A journey across the ridge of the Thuringian Forest that will stay in your memory for a long time 🌲💚✨.
Day 1
Arrival in Eisenach/Hörschel
Individual arrival. Arrive today in the "Wartburg City." Eisenach invites you to take a stroll through town to discover the sights of this historic Luther city.
Day 2
Eisenach/Hörschel to Ruhla-Ascherbrück
Today you reach the mountain town of Ruhla, known for its long tradition of watchmaking. Following tranquil paths via "Hohe Sonne," you will arrive at Ruhla-Ascherbrück. A detour into the impressive Dragon’s Gorge (Drachenschlucht) is highly recommended!
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Day 3
Ruhla-Ascherbrück to Ebertswiese
A highlight of today’s stage is the Großer Inselsberg (916 m), offering a fantastic view over the Thuringian Forest—on clear days, you can see as far as the Brocken in the Harz Mountains. Short climbs are rewarded by reaching one of the most beautiful mountain meadows in the Thuringian Forest; a small mountain lake awaits you for a relaxing end to the day!
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Day 4
Ebertswiese to the famous winter sports resort of Oberhof
Today you hike from the "Neue Ausspanne" along the ridge trail through the Thuringian Forest to reach the health resort of Oberhof, famous for its successful winter athletes. Relax in the wellness baths or discover the fascinating "Exotarium" and the blooming Rennsteig Garden.
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Day 5
Oberhof to Frauenwald
Passing the Schneekopf (978 m) and the Suhler Hütte, you make your way to Frauenwald. Along the way, you can take a break at the historic Rennsteig train station and, shortly before reaching Frauenwald, take a detour into history at the Bunker Museum.
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Day 6
Frauenwald to Masserberg
Today you reach the midpoint of the Rennsteig. You can visit the Rennsteig Museum in Neustadt am Rennsteig before arriving in the idyllic village of Masserberg, located near the source of the Werra river.
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Day 7
Masserberg to Neuhaus am Rennweg
We recommend a detour to the Nature Park Information Center in Friedrichshöhe. You will hike along part of the "Fairytale Trail" to Neuhaus—the place where the Rennsteig is called the "Rennweg." Local attractions include the town church and the Geißlerhaus.
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Day 8
Neuhaus am Rennweg to Steinbach am Wald
On your hike to Steinbach am Wald, you will cross the former Inner-German border and follow in the footsteps of Martin Luther toward Steinbach am Wald.
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Day 9
Steinbach am Wald to Grumbach
On your way, you will encounter the most beautiful and oldest coats-of-arms stones (Wappensteine) along the Rennsteig. You reach Brennersgrün and enjoy fantastic views of the Wetzstein and the Franconian Forest Nature Park.
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Day 10
Grumbach to the final destination, Blankenstein
Passing through this part of the Thuringian Slate Mountains, you reach Schlegel, where you can see a 400-year-old apple tree trunk. Finally, you reach the end of your journey: the town of Blankenstein with the Rennsteig Fountain and the "Hiking Hub" (Drehkreuz des Wanderns).
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Summary
- Total approx 175 km over 9 hiking days
- 10 nights
- Breakfast
- Luggage transfer
- Train Ride from Eisenach to Hörschel
- Transfer Ebertswiese
- Travel documents
- Service hotline
- from 1.129,- € per person
Facts about the Rennsteig
- The Rennsteig is one of Germany’s most famous long-distance hiking trails
- It runs primarily through the Thuringian Forest, as well as parts of the Thuringian Slate Mountains and the Franconian Forest
- The trail is mostly located in the federal state of Thuringia, with short sections crossing into Bavaria
- The total length is approximately 170 kilometers
- The Rennsteig connects Hörschel near Eisenach with Blankenstein on the Saale river
- The highest point of the route is the Großer Beerberg (approx. 983 meters)
- The path follows a historic border and trade route dating back to the Middle Ages
- The trail consists predominantly of forest tracks and ridge paths
Climate in the Thuringian Forest
The Thuringian Forest has a typical low mountain range climate. Summers are pleasantly mild (approx. 18–25 °C), though significantly cooler at higher altitudes. Winters are cold and snowy, especially in the elevated regions. Precipitation occurs year-round, with western slopes receiving more rain. Due to the altitude, weather conditions can change rapidly. The best time for hiking is from May to October, while winter is primarily dedicated to winter sports.
Culinary Traditions along the Rennsteig
The cuisine along the Rennsteig is characterized by traditional Thuringian home cooking. The region is famous for the Thuringian Rostbratwurst (grilled sausage), Thuringian Dumplings (Klöße), and hearty roast or game dishes. Soups, mushroom dishes, and regional specialty sausages are also typical. In local inns and hiking huts, traditional meals are prepared with regional ingredients. Popular drinks include beers from regional breweries and herbal liqueurs. Sweets such as sheet cakes (Blechkuchen) and fruit tarts are also very common.