Güntersberge: Mountain Lake, Hiking and Local History

Güntersberge is a state-recognized health resort on the banks of the Selke. Water, hiking and railways are practical themes to consider when planning a holiday here: the Selke Valley Railway passes directly along the southern shore of the mountain lake, and the Katzsohlteich pond lies at the edge of town. When looking for accommodation, you can already decide whether you would like to spend most of your stay by the water, hiking or exploring the town’s history.

Mountain Lake and Katzsohlteich Pond

The mountain lake, also known as Mühlenteich, was originally created as a mining pond in 1752. It is 125 metres long and 12 metres wide—its dimensions give it a distinctly elongated shape. Today, it is used for fishing and rowing. The Teichdamm geological outcrop is also located at the mountain lake. This brings together the history of the water, recreational activities and a geological feature in one place.

At Katzsohlteich pond on the edge of Güntersberge, you will find Harzer Wandernadel checkpoint 172 and a resting place. The pond is used as a receiving water and for fishing. A short hike to Katzsohlteich starts at the car park by the mountain lake, follows a signposted circular trail at first, then branches off towards the pond. This gives anyone planning an outing a specific starting point and a clearly described route.

Between the Hiking Trail and the Selke Valley Railway

The Selke Valley Railway passes directly along the southern shore of the mountain lake, offering railway enthusiasts a photo opportunity. The 75-kilometre Selketal-Stieg trail also passes directly through Güntersberge. Before setting out on the route, it is advisable to check its current status.

Those interested in the town itself will find a distinctive church history alongside its water and hiking attractions. The predecessor of today’s church was destroyed in the town fire of 1856. The neo-Romanesque church, consecrated in 1871, incorporated the predecessor’s Baroque north portal and the gravestone of the last Catholic parish priest before the Reformation. The church thus brings together a later architectural style and surviving elements of its predecessor.

More Experiences in the Broader Destination of Harzgerode

Harzgerode itself also has its own attractions and points of interest. Harzgerode Castle was rebuilt between 1549 and 1552. The Renaissance building has a stair tower and a round tower, and served from 1635 to 1709 as the residence of the Harzgerode line of the Anhalt princely house. At HARZKUGELEUM in the castle, a beechwood ball takes visitors through various themed worlds. Through its shape and weight, it conveys information about the Lower Harz, mining, nature, and local and regional history over time.

For outdoor activity, Harzgerode also has a natural toboggan run: it stretches 1,100 metres, winding downhill in several curves from the Harzgerode plateau into the Selke Valley and ending at the promenade in Alexisbad, with a descent of around 75 metres. Tobogganing depends on snow conditions; when there is too little snow, the route is also suitable for a winter walk. This offers a different seasonal focus from Güntersberge’s water and hiking attractions.

Discover more destinations: Schielo, Alexisbad, Siptenfelde, Neudorf, Dankerode.

Back to the broader travel overview: Harzgerode.