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Routes
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Germany
Thuringia

Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen

Routes
Places to see
Germany
Thuringia

Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen

Attractions and Places To See in Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see in Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen include a mix of historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and cultural institutions. This region in Thuringia, Germany, features prominent castles and well-preserved historic old towns. Natural features such as the Großer Inselsberg and the Trusetal Waterfall offer opportunities for outdoor exploration. The area provides a diverse range of points of interest for visitors.

Best attractions and places to see in Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen

  • The most popular attractions is Pleß Tower, a viewpoint…

Last updated: May 25, 2026

Great Inselsberg

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The island mountain near Bad Tabarz is a kind of sacred ground for mountain bike downhill riders. Because here took place 25 years ago (as of 2018) the first downhill …

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The monument was created in 1981 by the GDR sculptor Gerd Ullmann on behalf of the state and was "as a monument dedicated to all construction workers to remove the windbreak and bark beetle damage 1946-1949 ...".
-Wikipedia (de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waldarbeiterdenkmal)

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Trusetal Waterfall

Highlight • Waterfall

Simply impressively beautiful 🍃😊🍂🦊

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Violet fountain

Highlight • Natural Monument

Nice little fountain with crystal clear, cool spring water. Right around the corner, a bench with a table invites you to linger. The children enjoy the freshly tapped water. And …

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Shelter "Stein 16"

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Directly on the Rennsteig you will find a wonderful shelter with a table, two benches and a huge panoramic window with a view of the forest, which invites you to bivouac.

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Historic Rennsteig

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

From the Grenzwiese the Rennsteig leads past the Reitsteinen on the historic path to the Großer Inselberg. It is a difficult section, but worthwhile and promising.

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Ebertswiese Mountain Meadow

Highlight • Natural Monument

The Ebertswiese on the heights of the Thuringian Forest is one of the most beautiful places in the world with its enchanting flora and ideal rest and relaxation options. If …

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Oberhof Rondell Obelisk

Highlight • Monument

The roundabout marks the pass crossing at the traffic artery near Oberhof between Gotha and Suhl, which is also crossed at this point by the Rennsteig, the 168 km long hiking trail leading along the ridge of the Thuringian Forest.

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Pleß Tower

Highlight • Viewpoint

The Plesturm adorns the mountain of the same name and offers you a wonderful all-round view. Benches and tables that have been set up around invite you to rest.

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Thuringian Hut

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This rustic log cabin, located directly on the Rennsteig trail, seats over 50 in the main dining room, 75 in the gallery, and 100 on the terrace. Self-service is the …

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Popular around Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen

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Werratal cycle path — 6 stages along the Werra to the Fulda

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Werratal-Radweg

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R☀️n🚲
May 18, 2025, Ebertswiese Mountain Meadow

A beautiful piece of nature.

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The Ebertswiese is always worth a visit.

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Once you have climbed the Pleß you will be rewarded with a great view. There is a playground for the little ones and plenty of seating for the adults to relax. The hiking hut is open on weekends and public holidays in the afternoons. 👍🏻

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The roundabout near Oberhof is an obelisk and monument to the history of transport at the intersection of Thuringian state road 3247, the former federal road 247, with the Rennsteig. (Wikipedia) It is worth reading the historical background.

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Located directly on the Rennsteig, the history of the stone is clearly documented on the information boards

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Imposing and monumental, “forest rescuers” were still honored back then

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Karla Chen
October 24, 2023, Veilchenbrunnen

Beautifully designed fountain surround, of course with painted violets

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Stamp box no. 189 (stone 16) is located in the shelter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural attractions can I explore in Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen?

The region boasts diverse natural beauty. You can visit the impressive Trusetal Waterfall, which plunges 58 meters, or hike up Great Inselsberg for panoramic views of the Thuringian countryside. Other notable natural features include the tranquil Schwarzes Moor, the scenic Ruppberg, and serene lakes like Hinterer Breitunger See.

Are there any historical sites or castles to visit in the area?

Yes, Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen is rich in history. Explore the stunning Renaissance castle Schloss Wilhelmsburg in Schmalkalden or the significant Baroque Schloss Elisabethenburg in Meiningen. The Historic Old Towns of Schmalkalden and Meiningen also offer a journey back in time with their well-preserved architecture.

What kind of outdoor activities are available near these attractions?

The region is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for various activities. For running, explore trails like the 'View of the Thuringian Forest' loop from Oberhof. Gravel biking options include the 'Ohra Reservoir' loop. For hiking, there are easy trails such as the 'Family hiking trail "Der dürre Klaus"' in the Rhön. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Running Trails, Gravel Biking, and Easy Hikes guides for Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen.

Are there family-friendly attractions in Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen?

Absolutely! Families can enjoy the Trusetal Waterfall with its circular walk, or the Violet fountain which is a cozy spot for children. Other options include the Inselsberg Funpark, Explorata-Mitmachwelt in Zella-Mehlis with its experimental stations, and the unique Sandstein- und Märchenhöhle Walldorf (Sandstone and Fairy Tale Cave).

Where can I find the best viewpoints in the region?

For breathtaking vistas, head to Pleß Tower, which offers a panoramic all-round view from the mountain. The Great Inselsberg is another summit known for its extensive views into the Thuringian countryside. Additionally, Ruine Wallenburg in Trusetal functions as an observation tower with stunning views, and Noahs Segel near Kaltennordheim provides expansive panoramas over the Rhön region.

What cultural experiences does Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen offer?

Beyond historical sites, the district offers unique cultural experiences. Visit the Viba Nougat-Welt in Schmalkalden to learn about nougat production, or the Dampflok-Erlebniswelt in Meiningen for railway enthusiasts. The Theatermuseum in Meiningen displays 19th-century stage decorations, and the Metallhandwerksmuseum in Steinbach-Hallenberg showcases the region's metal craftsmanship heritage.

Are there any unique underground attractions?

Yes, for a unique underground experience, you can explore the mysterious Goetz-Höhle in Meiningen, an intriguing cave system. Another option is the Schaubergwerk "Finstertal" in Schmalkalden, an former iron ore and manganese mine offering guided tours.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning views from places like Great Inselsberg and Pleß Tower. The Trusetal Waterfall is often described as impressively beautiful, with many enjoying the circular walk around it. The region's blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and opportunities for outdoor activities is highly appreciated by the komoot community, with over 2800 upvotes and 3000 photos shared across its highlights.

Are there any accessible paths or facilities for visitors with mobility needs?

While specific details for all attractions vary, the Oberhof marketplace is noted as wheelchair accessible. When planning your visit, it's advisable to check individual attraction details for specific accessibility information.

Can I find places for relaxation or wellness in the region?

Yes, for those seeking relaxation, the SOLE WORLD Bad Salzungen provides spa and thermal bath facilities. Additionally, many natural spots like the Violet fountain offer cozy places to linger and unwind amidst nature.

What are some notable museums in Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen?

The region offers several specialized museums. You can visit the Blast Furnace Museum (Neue Hütte) in Schmalkalden to learn about iron ore mining, the Theatermuseum in Meiningen for 19th-century stage decorations, or the Metallhandwerksmuseum in Steinbach-Hallenberg for metal craftsmanship. The Schiller-Museum Bauerbach also provides insights into the life and works of the renowned poet Schiller.

Are there any winter sports opportunities in the area?

Yes, Oberhof is a world-renowned winter sports center, regularly hosting international competitions. Facilities like the LOTTO Thüringen ARENA am Rennsteig and the Rodel- & Skiberg "Alte Golfwiese" offer various winter activities. The H2Oberhof Wellness & Erlebnisbad also provides aquatic fun.

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Most popular attractions in Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen

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SchwallungenNsg Rhönkopf-StreufelsbergBelriethUnterschönauOberschönauMeiningenSchmalkaldenFloh-SeligenthalBrotterode-TrusetalZella-MehlisObermaßfeld-GrimmenthalUntermaßfeldFrankenheim/RhönOepfershausenFriedelshausenWasungenBreitungen/WerraStepfershausenSchwarzaViernauAschenhausenKaltensundheimRippershausenMetzelsBermbachUnterweidBrotterode-TrusetalMelpersSülzfeldFambachOberkatzUnterkatzBenshausenEllingshausenBischofswaldung Mit Stedtlinger MoorSteinbach-HallenbergRhönblickRosaUtendorfRhönwald-GrabenbergWesthang Des DolmarWahnsWölfershausenHennebergErbenhausenOberhofChristesDillstädtKühndorfGrabfeldSpringstilleRotterodeRitschenhausenVachdorfBirxHümpfershausenMehmelsKaltenwestheimHorn Mit KahlköpfchenAltersbachOberweid

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