Tambach-Dietharz: Dam, Forest and History

Tambach-Dietharz brings together water, forest and history in tangible ways. The Old Tambach Dam lies directly on the southern edge of the officially recognized health resort in the Apfelstädter Grund; a circular trail of about nine kilometres runs along its shore. There are also trails through the Tambach Forest, historical attractions and sporting opportunities ranging from cycling to cross-country skiing.

The dam and forest trails

The circular trail around the Old Tambach Dam offers a clear landmark for a walk by the water. Guided tours take place there every Sunday from May to October. Group tours can be arranged by contacting the Tourist Information Office in advance. If you want to plan your visit around a guided tour, check the latest dates beforehand; for groups, making an enquiry is part of the planning.

The Willi Matthias nature trail offers a different route: it leads from the Spittergrund through the Tambach Forest to the Tammichgrund. The Steinerne Tor is a natural monument in the Mittelwassergund hiking area in Tambach-Dietharz. The human-height rock is considered a popular excursion destination and an impressive photo opportunity. This gives you the choice between a described route through forest and valley and a distinctive natural monument.

Church, mysticism and technological history

The Luther Church was built around 1350 and rebuilt in a modified form after two major fires. At the end of February 1537, Martin Luther visited the church while stopping in the town on his way back from Schmalkalden. The church is therefore associated both with a long architectural history and with a specific moment in Luther’s travels.

Meister Eckhart was born in Tambach-Dietharz around 1260. Through his theological writings and sermons, he had a lasting influence on Christian mysticism. The Technical Sawmill Museum offers another way to explore the town’s history: it is a preserved historic sawmill whose history dates back to 1645. Architectural and church history, Christian mysticism and technology offer different points of interest for a stay that also caters to cultural interests.

Cycling routes, Bromacker and winter activities

Cycling options in Tambach-Dietharz include the Apfelstädt Cycle Route, the Rennsteig Cycle Route and mountain biking tours. The Dinosaur Adventure Trail runs from Georgenthal and from Tambach-Dietharz to the fossil site at Bromacker. Important for route planning: the stated distance of 4.5 kilometres refers to the section from Georgenthal to the Lohmühle. This route passes through 100 million years of Earth’s history; the stated distance therefore applies to this section.

The distinctive sandstone crag Falkenstein is located in the surroundings of Tambach-Dietharz. It has more than 100 climbing routes and is up to 96 metres high. The town offers more than 25 kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails; availability may vary depending on snow conditions. The Tambach-Dietharz forest swimming pool is supplied daily with fresh water from the Spitter.

Getting there and finding accommodation

Buses on route 851 run regularly from Gotha railway station to Tambach-Dietharz. Check the current timetable before travelling. The Sunday dates for guided tours and snow conditions for cross-country skiing are separate planning considerations.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Gotha, Hörselgau, Günthersleben-Wechmar, Friedrichroda, Waltershausen, Ballstädt, Crawinkel, Mühlberg.

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