The legendary Hörselberge: Großer Hörselberg near Eisenach loop – Thuringian Forest

On this tour, you'll encounter famous legends up close, as the legendary Hörselberg Mountains don't get their name by chance. The ridge path to the Great Hörselberg is largely untouched and will put you in the mood for encounters with the mythology of this cultural landscape: The Tannhäuser Cave and the Venus Grotto are part of the cave system in the Hörselberg area. They were probably already known in Germanic times as pagan cult sites of the goddess Hulda, popularly known as Frau Holle. The so-called Hörselbergloch is associated with the goddess Venus, who, as the seductive goddess of love, was a good fit for the Tannhäuser legend. Whether or not the story of Wagner's famous opera truly began in the Hörselberg Mountains, these impressive natural monuments are definitely worth a visit.

Before you leave, you can enjoy the view with a refreshing drink at the restaurant on the Great Hörselberg. The way back to Schönau leads through mixed forest and meadows through the secluded Zapfengrund, at the end of which the inn of the same name invites you to linger and end your day's hiking.