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Germany
Thuringia
Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen

Oberhof

Attractions and Places To See around Oberhof - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Oberhof include a variety of natural and man-made landmarks within the Thuringian Forest. This region offers numerous opportunities for exploring high elevations and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can find a range of top rated attractions Oberhof, from historic towers to mountain summits, making it a destination for outdoor activities.

Best attractions and places to see around Oberhof

  • The most popular attractions is Kickelhahn Tower, a viewpoint that features a lookout tower from 1855, the Goethe house, and a restaurant. This site combines historical elements with facilities for visitors.
  • Another must-see spot is Schneekopf Summit and Observation Tower (Thuringia Stamp Point No. 68), a summit and viewpoint. At 978 meters, it is the second highest elevation in Thuringia, offering extensive views.
  • Visitors also love Highest Point of the Rennsteig, a summit and trail highlight. This location is easily accessible from nearby parking lots and is marked by a hollow pole.
  • Oberhof is known for its viewpoints, summits, and historical sites. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, catering to different interests.
  • The attractions around Oberhof are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1750 upvotes and over 1700 photos shared across 191 highlights.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Kickelhahn Tower

Highlight • Viewpoint

On the Kickelhahn there is a lookout tower from 1855, a Telekom tower, a transmission mast, the Goethe house, the foundations of a hunting lodge and a restaurant. South of the summit are the Gabelbach hunting lodge and the Gabelbach mountain hotel.

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At 978 meters, the Schneekopf is the second highest elevation in Thuringia after the Großer Beerberg (983 meters). From here you can enjoy magnificent views all around. Visiting the top of the tower is the only way to exceed 1,000 meters in the Thuringian Forest.

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Neue Gehlberger Hütte on Schneekopf

Highlight • Mountain Hut

The Neue Gehlberger Hütte is located on the 978-meter-high Schneekopf mountain and is the highest-altitude serviced hut in Thuringia. It offers a cozy hiking hostel with shared rooms and a restaurant serving traditional Thuringian cuisine.

Opening Hours:
The restaurant is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – longer in summer. Breakfast for guests is served from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

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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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Highest Point of the Rennsteig

Highlight • Summit

The highest point is a must when you are in the vicinity. An even better view is only a few meters further along the path along the viewing platform.

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Zoe von Rambling Rocks
May 26, 2025, Neue Gehlberger Hütte on Schneekopf

The Neue Gehlberger Hütte is located on the 978-meter-high Schneekopf mountain and is the highest-altitude serviced hut in Thuringia. It offers a cozy hiking hostel with shared rooms and a restaurant serving traditional Thuringian cuisine. Opening Hours: The restaurant is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – longer in summer. Breakfast for guests is served from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

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

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You can't get more nature than on the 170km long Rennsteig. There are also a number of raised bogs to see.

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The Neue Gehlberger Hütte is open Thursday to Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday are rest days. I can only recommend taking a break here. The offer is very good. The proximity to the parking facility at the Güldenen Brücke causes a large number of visitors, mostly on weekends and when the weather is nice.

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Here at 978 m you have a really great all-round view of other peaks in the Thuringian Forest and the Rhön, up to the Ettersberg near Weimar and Oberhof. With very good visibility, such as winter inversion weather conditions, the view extends to the Brocken in the Harz Mountains, to the Schneeberg (Fichtelgebirge) and to the western Ore Mountains. You can also see the “Wilde Gera” (A 71) motorway bridge, the largest arched bridge in Germany with a span of 252 m. https://schneekopf.eu/ And if you want, you can crack the 1000 meter mark here on the observation tower for three euros. Diligence also has its price.

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This rest area is located to the right of the road in the direction of the hike. Here is a large crossroads with signs for various hiking trails. The Rennweg runs here via a bridge over Zellaer Strasse, where there is an obelisk. This point is also shown as a roundabout (in hiking maps). During the rest you can take a look at the forest workers monument. It is in honor of the people who, through hard work, saved the Middle Thuringian Forest after a windbreak in 1945 and the bark beetle plague of 1947-49.

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The monument was erected in honor of the people who saved the middle Thuringian forest after it was destroyed by wind in 1945 and the bark beetle plague of 1947-49.

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That is a decent achievement without a harvester and modern technology!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some family-friendly attractions around Oberhof?

Many attractions in the Oberhof region are suitable for families. For instance, the Kickelhahn Tower and Schneekopf Summit and Observation Tower are both marked as family-friendly and offer engaging experiences with views and facilities. The Highest Point of the Rennsteig is also easily accessible and family-friendly.

Are there easy hiking trails near Oberhof's attractions?

Yes, Oberhof offers several easy hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. You can find routes like the 'Rennsteig tunnel crossing – Sattelbach Forester's Lodge loop' or the 'Ski lift with après-ski bar – Oberhof Arena loop'. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Oberhof guide.

What historical sites can I visit near Oberhof?

Oberhof and its surroundings feature several historical sites. The Kickelhahn Tower, built in 1855, includes the Goethe house and foundations of a hunting lodge. Another significant site is the Forest Workers' Memorial, which commemorates the efforts of forestry workers after a severe storm in 1946.

Where can I find scenic viewpoints in the Thuringian Forest near Oberhof?

The region is rich in scenic viewpoints. The Kickelhahn Tower offers excellent views from its 1855 lookout tower. The Schneekopf Summit and Observation Tower, at 978 meters, provides extensive panoramic views across the Thuringian Forest. The Highest Point of the Rennsteig also features a viewing platform a short distance from the main marker.

What are the best times to visit Oberhof for hiking?

The Thuringian Forest around Oberhof is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant temperatures for hiking. Autumn is particularly popular for its vibrant fall foliage, while winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, ideal for winter sports and crisp walks.

Are there any unique cafes or restaurants near Oberhof's attractions?

Yes, you can find places to eat and relax near some attractions. The Kickelhahn Tower has a restaurant, and the Neue Gehlberger Hütte on Schneekopf is the highest-altitude serviced hut in Thuringia, offering traditional cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. It's a great spot to refuel after exploring the Schneekopf summit.

What outdoor activities, besides hiking, can I do near Oberhof's attractions?

Beyond hiking, Oberhof is a hub for various outdoor activities. You can explore cycling routes, such as the 'Oberhof recreational tour to the Lütsche reservoir' or the 'Ohratal Dam – Ohra Reservoir loop'. For more cycling options, refer to the Cycling around Oberhof guide. There are also numerous running trails available, detailed in the Running Trails around Oberhof guide.

Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth visiting in the Oberhof area?

While many attractions are well-known, exploring the smaller paths off the main trails can reveal hidden beauty. The Forest Workers' Memorial, though a monument, offers a quiet, reflective spot amidst the forest. Seek out less-trafficked sections of the Rennsteig or local forest paths for a more secluded experience.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Oberhof?

Visitors frequently praise the magnificent views from summits and towers like the Schneekopf Summit and Kickelhahn Tower. The combination of natural beauty, historical elements, and well-maintained trails makes for a rewarding experience. Many appreciate the opportunities for good food at reasonable prices at huts like the Neue Gehlberger Hütte.

Are there options for public transport to reach trails in the Thuringian Forest near Oberhof?

Oberhof is generally well-connected by bus services that can take you to various starting points for trails within the Thuringian Forest. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for specific routes and stops that align with your desired hiking destinations.

What winter activities are available around Oberhof's attractions?

Oberhof is renowned as a winter sports center. During winter, the region transforms, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and winter hiking on groomed trails. Many of the viewpoints and summits, like Schneekopf, are accessible for winter walks, providing stunning snowy vistas.

Are there any dog-friendly walks near the attractions?

Many trails and natural areas around Oberhof are dog-friendly, allowing you to explore with your canine companion. Always keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or near wildlife. The paths leading to attractions like the Highest Point of the Rennsteig are generally suitable for walks with dogs.

What should I wear for hiking in Oberhof during autumn?

For autumn hiking in Oberhof, it's best to dress in layers. Temperatures can vary, and weather can change quickly. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer (fleece or light down), and a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Sturdy hiking boots are essential, and consider bringing a hat and gloves for cooler mornings or higher elevations.

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