The Brocken mountain is one of the most intriguing Harz Mountains attractions in Northern Germany.
It’s got everything; history, hikes, stories of hauntings and witchcraft and you can explore the whole place by vintage steam train.
Ready to explore? Here’s my ultimate guide to exploring the Brocken mountain, part of the Harz National Park in Northern Germany.
The History of the Brocken Mountain Germany
The unique landscape of the Brocken mountain has long been drawing in visitors; one of the first documented ascents was that of botanist Johannes Thal, who wrote about the flora of the area.
Flora and fauna became a bit of a theme, as a botanical garden was laid out on the summit in the 1800s. It was Germany’s first Alpine garden, and one you can still visit today.
By the 1700s visitors to the mountain were seeking facilities, so Ā Count Christian Ernst had a shelter erected and called it Ā WolkenhƤuschen or ‘cabin in the clouds’. Doesn’t that sound delightful?
In the late 1800’s the narrow gauge Brockenbahn steam railway was laid, complete with one of the highest rail stations in Germany. The railway is still operational today and it’s a beautiful railway journey.
The Brocken Mountain in Wartime
The Second World and the Cold War changed the way the Brocken was used. In 1945, bombing raids damaged the weather station and hotel. US troops were stationed on the Brocken until 1947, when it was handed to Soviet Forces.
From 1948 into the 1950’s, tourists were once again permitted onto the Brocken. However in 1961, a divided Germany made the Brocken part of the inner German border and a heavily restricted military zone. Border guards were installed and facilities converted for surveillance.
The Brocken listening stations were said to be so powerful, they could capture radio traffic in almost all of Western Europe. The Brocken mountain would not reopen to visitors until after German reunification.
Witches & The Brocken Ghost
The Brocken, Northern Germany’s highest mountain, was believed to be the meeting place of witches. The idea of the Brocken witches endures and is still celebrated annually at the festival of Walpurgis.
Walpurgis night on the Brocken Mountain, Harz is something special; expect a spectacular display of costumes, music and witchy shenanigans.
Even if you don’t meet a witch when hiking on the Brocken, you might spot a ghostly figure. The unique climate of the Brocken means that when the light and fog are just right, an optical illusion is created; a huge and shadow like figure.
With the Brocken being fog shrouded for around 300 days of the year, there’s always a chance of meeting the local legend.
Things to Do on The Brocken Mountain
Hiking Trails on The Brocken Mountain: The Brocken is the highest peak in the Harz at 1,141 meters. A hike to the summit is rewarded with panoramic views. There are of a variety hiking trails of various length and difficulty. We did the Schierke to Brocken hike , a moderate route of just over 5K.
Visit the Brockenhaus Museum: The museum that takes visitors into the world of the Brocken. Explore the history, the environment and even experience a VR witches flight over the mountain. Round off with coffee & cake in the second floor restaurant and enjoy the views.
The Brocken Garden: Germany’s oldest alpine garden, with more than 1600 plants from alpine regions from around the world on display. Tours are offered May-October with a Brocken Gardener Guide.
Take the Brockenbahn Steam Train: It is possible to explore the Brocken aboard a vintage steam train, and it’s an experience I highly recommend. The pace is slow and steady, the journey relaxing, the views breath-taking.
The Harz Narrow Gauge Railways (Harzer Schmalspurbahnen), with their fleet of 25 vintage steam trains, operate a network of routes across the Harz including the Brocken Railway. Adult singles around ā¬37, various ticket options available.
Walk the White Roe Path: Aimed at younger walkers but open to all. The White Roe trail is a 6.5km walk from Schierke to the Brockenhaus museum , along which illustrated stations tell the fairytale of the white deer. A trail guide is available in German.
How Do I Get to The Brocken?
Because the Brocken is protected land within the Harz National Park, access by car is forbidden.
There are three main options to access the Brocken: by foot, by cycle or steam train. Additionally, it is possible to travel from Schierke by horse drawn carriage.
How to Get to the Brocken Mountain from Wernigerode.
Wernigerode is an easy and convenient access point to the Brocken mountain. You can board the steam train here and with many attractions, hotels and places to eat, it makes a great base for exploring the rest of the Harz area.
We boarded the train at Wernigerode to enjoy a scenic ride up to the station at the Brocken summit. Just look at those vintage carriages. Aren’t they gorgeous?
What Should I Wear to Explore the Brocken Mountain?
Layers. Make the bottom one something breathable and sweat wicking and the top one waterproof. Sturdy footwear is a must.
At 1141m above sea level and with a peak high above the treeline, the weather on the Brocken can be much different to the rest of the area and changes in the blink of an eye.
The peak experiences foggy conditions around 300 days a year; snow for 178. A beautiful place, but with a microclimate that is closer to Iceland than the rest of Germany. Come prepared.
Can I Stay Overnight on the Brocken?
Yes! You can spend the night on the summit at the Brocken Hotel.
The Brocken Hotel is the only hotel located within the Harz National Park and the only way to experience an overnight stay on the highest peak in Northern Germany.
The hotel is open year round and offers a range of en-suite rooms with prices starting from ā¬65 per guest, per night.
Is the Brocken Mountain worth visiting?
A thousand times-yes! In fact I’d say this is one of the must-not-miss Harz Mountain attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast or looking for some of the best hiking trails in the Harz, the Brocken mountain has something for you.
I hope I’ve inspired you to plan a visit to this beautiful and intriguing destination in Northern Germany. Looking for more Harz region travel inspiration? I’ve linked my other posts from this area below.
Helen x
You’ve definitely made this sound an enticing destination Let’s see …
One of my favourite trips in Germany, one for the list if you’re ever planning a German adventure.
It’s not out of the question. My ex-German teacher husband is a fan of Germany as a holiday destination.