Thale
Legendary Harz in the Bode Valley
Thale, a town of legends, lead its numerous visitors straight to nature between the Rosstrappe and Hexentanzplatz (Witches′ Dance Floor) plateaus as well as deep gorges at the entrance to the wild Bode Valley. For children, an adventure paradise for climbing and playing has been created. Impressed by the “mightiest gorge north of the Alps”, no other than Goethe expressed his admiration of this natural spectacle.
While back then the ascent to the Rosstrappe was hard work, the touristically developed plateau now is easily accessible by way of a chairlift. According to legend, Princess Brunhilda jumped across the gorge of the Bode Valley on her horse (German: Ross), thus escaping her pursuer, the Bohemian King Bodo. The impression of the horse’s hoof can still be seen in the rock. A horseshoe also marks the Rosstrappe hiking trail. Collectors and champion ramblers will find checkpoints for the Harzer Wandernadel hiking award at suitable locations along the way. A glazed gondola lift in 70 m (230 ft) height carries visitors across inaccessible gorges to the Hexentanzplatz plateau on the other side. Each year fantastically dressed witches and devils welcome the month of May between the Bergtheater and Hexenring. Goethe included the Walpurgis spectacle in his Faust; these days, it is more of an exuberant folk festival. A wellness break at the Bodetal-Therme spa offers ideal relaxation after extensive walks.
Tip: In the old town you will find Kloster Wendhusen, an abbey from the Carolingian period, one of the oldest stations along the Romanesque Road.
Bodetal Information, Stadt Thale
Bahnhofstraße 1, 06502 Thale
Tel. +49 3947 776800, www.bodetal.de/bodetalurlaub/orteimbodetal/thale
Strasse der Romanik
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