The Hidden Gems of Harz

Your pocket guide to the prettiest German towns of the Harz mountains

Before I started living in Germany, I did not know about the Harz mountains. From year to year, I made more local friends from whom I collected insider-tips about travel in Germany. One day in a BBQ party, an acquaintance mentioned the Harz mountains. I immediately got curious and started researching about it. And that’s when I got to know about this area which was made famous through its Hogwarts Express like steam train.

That said, let me personally introduce you to the Harz mountains and get you inspired !

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Getting lost in the heart of Germany

Getting lost in the heart of Germany

Although a low mountain range in general, the Harz is indeed the highest mountain range of northern Germany. Its highest point at 1141.2 m above sea level is called Brocken. The Harz region has countless UNESCO World Heritage Sites, fortresses and monasteries from the Middle ages. The beauty of Harz has inspired numerous poets over the centuries. You will not get tired walking down the dreamy, cobblestone streets. For nature-enthusiasts, there are several hiking trails as well as mountain bike routes in the forested areas. Apart from that, the steam train takes you on a memorable journey through fantastic Harz landscapes. So, be ready to get lost in the hidden gems of the Harz mountains.

Goslar

With more than 1500 half-timbered houses that adorn the city, the former Imperial city of Goslar is a place of wonder. Its charm is amplified by the calming rivulet Abzucht that flows through Goslar. A highly elegant town council awaits in the Marktplatz to be photographed by its admirers. Although Goslar is a small town, it is packed with unspoilt, pretty corners. The town once had a rich tradition of mining. Its Rammelsberg Mine were operated for over 1000 years until it shut down in 1988. In 1992, the mine was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site and Germany’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site of technology.

Location on Google Maps: Goslar

Quedlinburg

Quedlinburg is a medieval European town that deserves once-in-a-lifetime visit. There are more than 2000 half-timbered houses in the historic old town of Quedlinburg. I don’t know how many, but as many travel influencers I have followed, that many photos of Quedlinburg I have seen on Instagram. There are multiple corners of this town, so photogenic, that globe trotters from far away come to gather this unique experience. The cobblestone streets of Quedlinburg combined with unique half-timbered structures make this town highly instagrammable. The architecture of this town is a masterpiece. Missing out on this town is like a travel itinerary unfulfilled.

Location on Google Maps: Quedlinburg

Wernigerode

The stunning medieval town of Wernigerode is another hidden gem of the Harz mountains. If you swipe through the Wernigerode images on my Instagram site, you will understand why. There is a super romantic castle in Wernigerode that overlooks the old town packed with timber-framed houses. Several times during the day, a motorized train brings architecture lovers from Wernigerode’s town-center up to the gorgeous castle. If you are interested in hikes, then you can walk along the trails behind the castle that lead to a vantage point offering rewarding views of the castle. The Wernigerode castle will take you back to your childhood days when you were fascinated by Disney castles. That it is one of the most stunning castles of Germany, is evident in my image below.

Location on Google Maps: Wernigerode

Summary

My accommodation for remote-working was in Wernigerode which I used as my base for traveling to the neighbouring Harz towns each day. The Harz Mountains are not very touristy and easy to access. You will not fall short of activities this region has to offer and for sure, you will want to come back. The spectacular churches, monasteries, well-preserved old town centres, romantic alleys and gorgeous timber-framing will steal your heart. Apart from fairytale towns, there are endless hiking trails that lead to surreal landscapes. I am convinced I will return to Harz one day as I still have few locations in my mind from Harz that I would like to visit. Let’s see when I am able to come back. But for now, I think you have definitely added Harz in your bucket-list.