Hotel im Kräutergarten

Cursdorf

Cursdorf lies about 700 m above sea level and is thus the highest area of the mountain range in the southern part of the Thuringian Forest. High above the valleys and a short distance from the famous Rennsteig hiking trail, you can explore the region's beautiful scenery here. In the countryside you can let yourself be enchanted by the beautiful surroundings and go on walks through deep valleys and green forested mountains.

After a long hike, it is recommended that you pass the "Kneipptretanlage" in Cursdorf on your way home. Here they have built a number of soup basins where you can cool your feet after a long hike. The cool water is good for the circulation and at the same time it gets your sore feet ready for another hike the next day.

A fun activity for the whole family is to visit Cursdorf's tube plant. Both in winter in the snow and in summer in the snow, you can throw yourself on the large bathing rings and hurtle down the more than 200 m long track, which has a 21% drop in places. There's a small kiosk by the course serving drinks and snacks to refuel you along the way. In Cursdorf you can also visit the town's "Glass Appliance Museum", popular with locals and tourists alike.

Oberweißbacher Bergbahn

Journey on the Oberweißbacher Bergbahn, a century-old masterpiece of engineering nestled in the scenic Thuringian Forest. This historic funicular and narrow-gauge railway stretches over 7.4 kilometers, connecting the valley station in Obstfelderschmiede with the mountain village of Cursdorf. Along the way, travelers can marvel at the ingenious blend of historic craftsmanship, mechanical ingenuity, and breathtaking landscapes, including dense forests, rolling hills, and charming villages. Recognized as one of Germany’s most unique and picturesque mountain railways, the Oberweißbacher Bergbahn offers an unforgettable experience for railway enthusiasts, history lovers, and nature admirers alike.

Schloss Schwarzburg

Schloss Schwarzburg is a magnificent historic castle located in the heart of Thuringia, Germany, with a rich history dating back several centuries. Visitors can wander through its beautifully preserved halls, admire ornate architectural details, and stroll through charming courtyards that reflect the elegance of bygone eras. The castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including rolling hills, forests, and the quaint town of Schwarzburg. Beyond its architectural beauty, Schloss Schwarzburg hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and special occasions, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone seeking an unforgettable experience steeped in German heritage.

Thuringian Forest

Another excursion option is a drive through the Thuringian Forest. The forest is 150 km long and up to 35 km wide! The highest mountain in the Thuringian Forest is the "Grosse Beerberg" (982 m). Other important mountains are the "Grosse Inselsberg" (916 m) and the "Schneekopf" (978 m). If you drive through the Thuringian Forest, you will reach the winter sports town of Oberhof. Here you will find a ski arena with a capacity of 13,000 spectators. Take a walk on the Rennsteig with the beautiful view at the top.

Marine Aquarium Adventure Park

Discover the colourful underwater world of the tropical oceans. Erlebnispark Meeresaquarium offers beautiful and colourful corals, sea anemones, sharks and unique fish in a jumble of colours swimming around the aquarium.

Errlebnispark Meeresaquarium is the largest of its kind in Central Germany with a total area of 7,150 sqm. and over 60 aquariums. Erlebnispark Meeresaquarium has been in existence since 1994 and is a popular destination for families with children and curious travellers.

The tropical underwater world that can be experienced at Erlebnispark Meereaquarium is an unforgettable experience, even for adults, so be sure to set aside time to visit the large facility filled with exotic fish species, including the more dangerous ones. One of the main attractions is undoubtedly the large shark tank which holds 1 million litres of water, is 20 metres long, 10 metres wide and 5.4 metres deep. It is home to a number of shark species that thrive in the water. Don't miss the shark feeding, which takes place on Sundays at 3pm. They're usually hungry!

Erfurt

On a cheap car holiday in Germany, a must is to visit Thuringia's capital, Erfurt, a delightful mix of squares, old alleyways, small church towers and idyllic riverside areas. The city was home to the famous University of Erfurt in the 1300s, where Martin Luther was the most famous student. Today you can still feel the medieval roots of the city and there is a unique atmosphere among the old houses. Book a cheap self-drive holiday with Risskov and discover the cosy city. Among the main sights are the market square with the city's cathedral, the medieval bridge Krämerbrücke and the old Augustinian monastery.

Talsperre Leibis/Lichte

Talsperre Leibis/Lichte is a striking reservoir and dam located in the Thuringian Forest, Germany. Constructed to provide drinking water and hydroelectric power, it is surrounded by scenic forests, rolling hills, and walking trails, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The reservoir’s clear waters are ideal for recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, and cycling along well-maintained paths. Visitors can also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, panoramic views of the Thuringian landscape, and opportunities for birdwatching.