Lonau: Waterfall, Mountain Meadows and Village History

Lonau is situated in the Harz National Park, among mountain slopes, meadows and open beech forests. Nature experiences and local history give your stay different points of focus: the Lonau Waterfall plunges 10 metres down a narrow rocky gorge over several cascades, while St. Michaelis Church tells the story of the village’s architectural history. Ranger activities, a signposted circular trail and the forest swimming pool add to the options. When planning your trip, you can focus on scenery, outdoor activities, swimming or culture.

Waterfall and species-rich mountain meadows

The Lonau Waterfall lies in a narrow rocky gorge. The water drops a total of 10 metres over several cascades, creating a striking natural setting in the village. The characteristic Harz mountain meadows near Lonau are another special natural feature: they are home to unique biodiversity, with more than 50 plant species that are classified as endangered. For those interested in nature, the meadows are therefore a destination in their own right, alongside the forest and waterfall.

Hiking and nature experiences with rangers

The signposted “Around Lonau” trail is a short hike above the village. Another option is to join the rangers from the Lonau Ranger Station: the nature experience programme includes open hikes for everyone, while dates for groups are arranged by appointment. The programme may vary, so check the dates in advance if you are planning a guided hike.

The Ranger Station and the Lonau National Park Information Centre are located in the village community centre. Films there provide information about nature and the Harz National Park’s activities for all age groups. Rangers answer questions and offer hiking tips. This combines practical guidance with insights into topics you can explore further outdoors, without requiring you to join a guided tour.

The Kneipp water-treading facility in Lonau is also a destination for an outing and relaxation. Along with the circular trail and ranger activities, it shows that nature experiences here are not limited to just one type of excursion. You can make a short hike, a guided tour or a more leisurely visit the focus of your day.

The forest swimming pool for a refreshing break

The public Lonau Forest Swimming Pool is right next to the campsite. Surrounded by trees, it has several pools, including one for children, as well as ample sunbathing lawns and play facilities. These are useful points of reference for families planning to include swimming and time outdoors in their day.

The seasonal opening hours are listed as daily from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., from 15 May to 15 September. Check before visiting whether these hours are still in effect. This will help you coordinate a visit to the pool with your travel group’s other interests and planned travel dates.

Church and local history

St. Michaelis Church was built in 1883 from solid red brick, replacing the older wooden church. The organ was built a year later, in 1884, by Gebr. Krell of Duderstadt. The two dates mark different stages in the church’s history and make the change from the earlier timber building to the brick church tangible, as well as the craftsmanship represented by the addition of the organ. For travellers interested in architecture and local history as well as nature, the church is a distinct cultural highlight in Lonau.

Visitor information and trip planning

The activities also have different conditions: the swimming pool has seasonal opening hours, the ranger programme may vary, and group dates are arranged by appointment. The capercaillie enclosure near Lonau is currently closed for technical reasons; the special postmark station at the enclosure remains accessible. Check the pool’s opening hours and the current situation at the enclosure before your visit. If you are looking for accommodation in Lonau, these differences can help you plan your travel days around the experiences that matter most to you.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Badenhausen, Riefensbeek-Kamschlacken, Pöhlde, Herzberg am Harz, Bad Sachsa, Osterode am Harz, Bad Lauterberg, Bad Grund.

Back to the main travel overview: Osterode am Harz.