Braunlage Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and must-try food in Braunlage. Explore the natural attractions and hiking routes, learn about local culture and customs, and plan your stay with our transportation and accommodation options.


Introduction to Braunlage

Located in Southern Lower Saxony, in the heart of the Harz Mountains, Braunlage is a popular holiday destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This picturesque town boasts of scenic views, charming architecture, and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or simply to soak up the local culture, Braunlage has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Braunlage

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Braunlage offers several cultural attractions, including museums and historical sites that offer fascinating insights into the town’s past. The top cultural attractions that should be on your list of places to visit in Braunlage are:

  • Harzmuseum: Located in the old town hall, this museum showcases the history of the town and the surrounding region. From archaeological artifacts to works of art, this museum has something of interest for everyone.
  • Wurmbergseilbahn: Take a ride on the Wurmberg cable car and enjoy panoramic views of the Harz Mountains. This cable car takes you to the top of the highest peak in the Harz Mountains - the Wurmberg.
  • Haus der Natur: This museum is dedicated to the natural history of the Harz Mountains. With interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a butterfly house, this museum is a great place to learn about the local flora and fauna.

Natural Attractions of Braunlage: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Braunlage is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. From hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding, Braunlage offers something for every season. The top natural attractions that should be on your list of places to visit in Braunlage are:

  • Brocken: This is the highest peak in the Harz Mountains, and it’s a popular destination for hikers. On a clear day, you can see for miles from the top of the Brocken.
  • Nationalpark Harz: This national park offers plenty of hiking trails, cycling routes, and scenic drives. You can enjoy stunning views of the Harz Mountains, admire the local wildlife, and learn about the park’s history and culture.
  • Braunlage Wurmberg Ski Resort: This ski resort offers a range of winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. There are plenty of runs for all skill levels, and the resort is open from December to March.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Braunlage

Braunlage is a popular destination for hikers and bikers, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and well-maintained trails. Here are some of the top hiking/biking routes in Braunlage:

  • Harz National Park Trek: This trail takes you through the heart of the Harz Mountains, showcasing the beautiful natural landscape of the region.
  • Wurmberg Challenge Bike Tour: This tour takes you up the Wurmberg, the highest peak in the region, and offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.
  • Radautal Valley Hike: This hike takes you through the picturesque Radautal Valley, taking in the stunning views of the region as you go.

Best Things to Do in Braunlage: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, biking, and skiing, Braunlage offers a range of activities and tours for visitors. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxed sightseeing tour, there’s something for everyone in Braunlage. Here are some of the best things to do in Braunlage:

  • Segway Tour: Explore Braunlage on a Segway and take in the stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains.
  • Stand Up Paddle Boarding: Enjoy a serene paddle down the Oker River and experience Braunlage from a different perspective.
  • Harz National Park Guided Tour: Take a guided tour of the Harz National Park and learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Braunlage

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Braunlage:

Day Activity
1 Explore Braunlage old town and visit the Harzmuseum
2 Take a hike through the Harz National Park
3 Try out skiing at the Braunlage Wurmberg Ski Resort
4 Relax and unwind at the Kristall Saunatherme spa
5 Take a Segway tour of Braunlage
6 Go on a guided tour of the Brocken peak
7 Visit Haus der Natur and take a planetarium show

Food and Drink Scene of Braunlage

No travel experience is complete without savoring the local cuisine. Braunlage is home to some of the best restaurants and cafes in the region, offering a mix of traditional cuisine and modern twist. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Braunlage:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Harzer Käse: This is a regional cheese made from sour milk. It has a pungent aroma and a sour taste, and it’s usually served with bread or potatoes.
  • Grünkohl: This is a traditional German dish made with kale and meat. It’s usually served with potatoes and sausages.
  • Hasenpfeffer: This is a stew made with rabbit meat, onions, and vinegar. It’s a favorite among locals in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Harzer Rotspitz: This is a local beer brewed in Braunlage. It has a light, crisp taste and is perfect for drinking on a sunny day.
  • Kräuterlikör: This is a regional herbal liqueur made from 47 different herbs and spices. It’s a popular after-dinner drink in the region.

Where to Stay in Braunlage: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Braunlage offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Braunlage:

  • Maritim Berghotel Braunlage: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of the town. It offers stunning views of the Harz Mountains, a spa, and a range of recreational activities.
  • Hotel Harzhaus: This is a traditional hotel located in the old town. It offers cozy rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and easy access to the town’s attractions.
  • Hostel Braunlage: This is a budget-friendly hostel located in the town center. It offers clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms and is a great option for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Braunlage: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t forget to grab some souvenirs and local products to take back home from Braunlage. Here are some of the best things to buy in Braunlage:

  • Harzer Käse: This is a regional cheese that’s perfect for foodies and cheese lovers.
  • Rübeländer Tropfsteinhöhle: This is a local gemstone that’s unique to the region. It’s a great gift for collectors and gemstone enthusiasts.
  • Harzer Kräuterlikör: This is a herbal liqueur that’s made from 47 different herbs and spices. It’s a great gift for foodies and drink enthusiasts.

Local Culture and Customs of Braunlage

Braunlage has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many customs and traditions that are still practiced today. Here are some of the local customs and traditions to keep in mind when visiting Braunlage:

  • Dress Warmly: The Harz Mountains can get quite cold, especially in the winter months. Make sure to pack warm clothing and dress in layers.
  • Greeting Customs: When greeting someone in Braunlage, it’s customary to shake hands and make eye contact. It’s also common to address someone by their last name as a sign of respect.
  • Language: German is the official language in Braunlage.

Best Time to Visit Braunlage

The best time to visit Braunlage depends on what you want to do. If you’re interested in winter sports, the best time to visit is from December to March. If you’re interested in hiking and outdoor activities, the best time to visit is from May to October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Braunlage

It’s always a good idea to be aware of the do’s and don’ts when visiting a new place. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Braunlage:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine: Braunlage has a rich culinary tradition, and it’s worth trying some of the local dishes.
  • Explore the great outdoors: Braunlage is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.
  • Respect the local customs: When visiting a new place, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Braunlage is known for its pristine natural beauty, and it’s important to keep it that way. Make sure to dispose of trash properly.
  • Make too much noise: Braunlage is a quiet town, and it’s important to be considerate of others when visiting.
  • Leave valuables unattended: As with any tourist destination, it’s important to keep your valuables safe and secure.

Safety and Health

Safety in Braunlage

Braunlage is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when visiting Braunlage:

  • Lock your valuables in your hotel safe.
  • Don’t leave your belongings unattended.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Braunlage

Braunlage has excellent healthcare facilities, and there are many doctors and hospitals in the area. If you need medical assistance, speak with your hotel staff or visit the local hospital.

Getting to Braunlage: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Braunlage

The closest airports to Braunlage are:

  • Hannover Airport: This airport is about 130 km from Braunlage and offers international and domestic flights.
  • Erfurt-Weimar Airport: This airport is about 135 km from Braunlage and offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Braunlage

There are several bus stations near Braunlage:

  • Braunlage ZOB: This is the main bus station in Braunlage, and it offers connections to several nearby towns and cities.
  • Wernigerode Busbahnhof: This bus station is about 25 km from Braunlage and offers connections to several cities in Germany.

Other Options

The easiest way to get to Braunlage is by car, as it offers easy access to the surrounding region. However, there are also several train stations near Braunlage, including:

  • Goslar Bahnhof: This train station is about 20 km from Braunlage and offers connections to several cities in Germany.
  • Wernigerode Bahnhof: This train station is about 25 km from Braunlage and offers connections to several cities in Germany.

How to Get Around in Braunlage

Braunlage is a small town, and many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you want to explore the surrounding area, there are several options:

  • Car Rental: You can rent a car in Braunlage or at one of the nearby airports. This is a great option if you want to explore the surrounding region at your own pace.
  • Public Transportation: There are several bus and train connections to nearby towns and cities.
  • Taxi: Taxis are easily available in Braunlage, and they’re a good option if you need to get somewhere quickly.

Where to Go Next from Braunlage: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Braunlage is located in the heart of the Harz Mountains, and there are many nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit near Braunlage:

  • Goslar: This historic town is about 20 km from Braunlage and is home to several well-preserved medieval buildings.
  • Wernigerode: This charming town is about 25 km from Braunlage and is known for its picturesque castle and historic town center.
  • Bad Harzburg: This spa town is about 15 km from Braunlage and is a great place to relax and unwind.

Conclusion

Braunlage is a hidden gem in the heart of the Harz Mountains, offering stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re here for a day trip or a week-long stay, there’s something for everyone in Braunlage. With this guide, you’re ready to explore the best of what Braunlage has to offer.

Street of Braunlage Street of Braunlage