Attractions and Places To See around Landkreis Sonneberg - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Landkreis Sonneberg are nestled within the Thuringian Forest, offering a diverse range of natural landscapes and cultural sites. This region is characterized by its varied terrain, making it a destination for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, scenic viewpoints, and significant cultural institutions. The area provides numerous opportunities to experience nature and learn about local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Landkreis Sonneberg
- The most popular attractions is Blessberg Observation Tower, a viewpoint that offers extensive views over the Thuringian Forest, extending to Franconia and the Fichtelgebirge. A hiking hostel is available year-round at this location.
- Another must-see spot is Fellberg, a summit with a hut. Visitors can stop at the Fellbergbaude, which provides a view and serves as a starting point for mountain biking, hiking, skiing, or cross-country skiing.
- Visitors also love Scheibe-Alsbach Reservoir, a lake away from typical tourist crowds. It offers tranquil walking paths around the water and opportunities to explore deeper into the surrounding forests.
- Landkreis Sonneberg is known for its natural features, historical sites, and cultural institutions. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from summits and reservoirs to museums and historical monuments.
- The attractions around Landkreis Sonneberg are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 610 upvotes and over 745 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Blessberg Observation Tower
Highlight • Viewpoint
Opening hours:
Closed on Mondays
Tuesday to Sunday 11am to 6pm
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Fellberg
Highlight • Summit
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Three-current brick
Highlight • Monument
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Eisfelder Resting Place
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Schwarza Spring
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Scheibe-Alsbach Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Friedrichshöhe Village and Thuringian Forest Nature Park Center
Highlight • Settlement
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Spechtsbrunn Nature Park Information Center with snacks
Highlight • Rest Area
At this point, the Rennsteig trail crosses the old military and trade route from Nuremberg to Leipzig.
Local legend tells us that the unusual name originated from the fact that carters would take a break here after the strenuous climb, eating bread and sausage, thus having a "cold kitchen" meal. In reality, however, the name more likely derives from "Kalde," meaning border, and "Kuchel" or "Kochel," the Franconian term for a small church. Therefore, "Kalte Küche" means something like border chapel. Historical records show that a small wayside chapel stood at the old pass.
The border between the Thuringian Forest Nature Park, the Thuringian Slate Mountains/Upper Saale Nature Park, and the Franconian Forest Nature Park runs here.
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Sandberg Summit (834 m)
Highlight • Summit
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Dreiherrenstein Hohe Heide and Historic Boundary Stones on the Rennsteig
Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site
The oldest dates from 1513, most of the stones still in existence are from the
18th century. The stones show the year the stones were set and a
sequential number. The Dreiherrensteine are where the territories of three countries meet.
grenzsteine.de/grenzsteine-deutsche-laender/rennsteig/index.html
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Tips from the Community
The Sandberg is a hill near Steinheid and part of the Kammweg trail that runs through the region. From here, you can enjoy magnificent views and explore the surrounding area.
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Friedrichshöhe is a small village where you can learn more about nature on a nature trail, and there's also the Rennsteig trail, which is great for skiing in winter. That's why there are so many guesthouses here.
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If you are looking for absolute peace and quiet, Friedrichshöhe is the right place for you ✅
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Originally built to increase the low water level so that the cellulose works in Schwarza always had enough water. Today the dam is mainly used to produce drinking water.
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A stop here is a must and you will get good information about the Rennsteig and other regions.
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Sensational ... in summer there are trails for hiking and biking
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Landkreis Sonneberg?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the Bleßberg Observation Tower for panoramic views of the Thuringian Forest, or hike to Fellberg, a summit with a hut offering stunning vistas. The Scheibe-Alsbach Reservoir provides tranquil walking paths, and you can discover the Schwarza Spring. The famous Rennsteig ridgeway, the Green Belt, and the Thuringian Forest Nature Park also offer extensive opportunities for nature experiences.
What historical and cultural sites are there in Landkreis Sonneberg?
Landkreis Sonneberg boasts a rich history. Explore the Historische Meile in Sonneberg, featuring significant buildings like the Old Town Hall and District Court. Visit the globally recognized Deutsches Spielzeugmuseum in Sonneberg, known as the "World Toy City," or the Astronomiemuseum Sonneberg, housed in Germany's highest-located observatory. Other notable sites include the Museum of Glass Art Lauscha, the ancient Cella Antiqua, and Burg Neuhaus in Föritztal.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Landkreis Sonneberg region?
Yes, there are several attractions suitable for families. The Deutsches Spielzeugmuseum offers engaging exhibits and workshops. For animal lovers, the Meeresaquarium-Exotarium Nautiland and Tiergarten Sonneberg provide opportunities to see diverse species. Outdoor fun can be found at the Summer Toboggan Run Ernstthal and Siegmundsburg Snow and Summer Tubing. Many hiking trails, such as those around the Scheibe-Alsbach Reservoir, are also suitable for families.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The region is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking along the Rennsteig or explore the trails around the Fellberg. Mountain biking is popular, especially at the "Rennsteig Bikearena Silbersattel" in Steinach. For more specific routes, you can find various waterfall hikes, MTB trails, and road cycling routes around Landkreis Sonneberg.
What are the best viewpoints in Landkreis Sonneberg?
For breathtaking views, head to the Bleßberg Observation Tower, which offers extensive panoramas over the Thuringian Forest, Franconia, and the Fichtelgebirge. The summit of Fellberg also provides a wonderful outlook. Additionally, the Sandberg Summit (834 m) near Steinheid is known for its excellent distant views.
Are there any unique historical monuments related to borders or watersheds?
Yes, the region features unique historical markers. The Three-current brick is a significant triple watershed where water flows to the North Sea via three different rivers. The Rennsteig ridgeway is also lined with hundreds of historical border stones and 13 "Dreiherrensteine," marking former state borders, including the Dreiherrenstein Hohe Heide.
What is there to do in Landkreis Sonneberg during winter?
In winter, Landkreis Sonneberg transforms into a snowy paradise. The Ski-Arena Silbersattel in Steinach is the largest and most snow-sure ski area in Thuringia, offering skiing and other winter sports. Other ski slopes can be found in Ernstthal and Siegmundsburg. The Fellberg is also a popular spot for cross-country skiing and skiing.
What is the Thuringian Forest Nature Park and what does it offer?
Landkreis Sonneberg is situated within the Thuringian Forest Nature Park. This extensive nature park provides a rich network of walking and cycling paths, making it perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes. It offers numerous opportunities for rest and refreshment amidst nature, and is a central point for many outdoor activities in the region.
What is special about the Sonneberg Town Hall?
The Sonneberg Town Hall is particularly noteworthy during the Christmas season. Its 24 front windows are transformed into a giant Advent calendar, creating a festive and unique display that attracts visitors to the town center.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Landkreis Sonneberg?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views from spots like the Bleßberg Observation Tower and Fellberg. The tranquility of places like the Scheibe-Alsbach Reservoir is also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the well-developed forest trails for cycling and hiking, and the historical significance of sites like the Three-current brick is often highlighted as a unique experience.
Are there any specific cycling routes or bike parks in the area?
Yes, the region is well-equipped for cyclists. Thuringia's first bike park, the "Rennsteig Bikearena Silbersattel," is located in Steinach and is a must-visit for mountain bikers. Additionally, there are numerous MTB Trails and Road Cycling Routes available throughout Landkreis Sonneberg, catering to various skill levels.
What is the Green Belt and what can I do there?
The Green Belt (Grünes Band) is the former inner-German border region, which has been transformed into a unique natural and memorial landscape. It offers excellent hiking opportunities along the "Iron Curtain Trail," allowing visitors to experience both nature and a significant piece of German history.
Most popular routes around Landkreis Sonneberg
Most popular attractions around Landkreis Sonneberg
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