Discover Friedersdorf: Nature Park Trail and Weaving History
Accommodation in Friedersdorf
Friedersdorf can be discovered through a nature trail and its distinctive local history. The Thuringian Herb Garden Nature Park Trail passes through the village; alongside it are the history of the weavers, local celebrations and the former uses of the Ölschröte. This is how nature and the past come to the fore in Friedersdorf in different ways.
The Nature Park Trail and its stops
The Thuringian Herb Garden Nature Park Trail passes through Friedersdorf, past the wildlife enclosure and downhill to Waldgut Ölschröte. The trail follows a clear route: through the village, alongside the enclosure and down to the forest estate. At the entrance to Friedersdorf, hikers can take a break and enjoy a picnic at a covered seating area. Wildlife can also be observed in an enclosure at the entrance to the village.
There are several ways to plan your day: follow the trail, take a break at the village entrance or watch the animals. Friedersdorf can therefore be enjoyed for more than just its hiking route; the seating area and enclosure offer other ways to spend time outdoors.
Weaving history and local traditions
Friedersdorf was first mentioned in a document in 1370. The village acquired the nickname “Little Nuremberg” because of its many weavers. The historic Erfurt–Nuremberg trade route also passed through Friedersdorf. These details offer different ways into the village’s history: its first documentary mention, the weaving trade and a historic road that once ran through the village.
Frauentag (International Women’s Day) and Halloween are celebrated in Friedersdorf. Ölschröte is also part of the village’s history: for many years, it served as an inn and a children’s holiday camp. Together with the trail route, this makes for a visit that brings nature and historical themes together.
GroĂźbreitenbach: Landscape and Half-Timbered Church
GroĂźbreitenbach stretches across a plateau between Langen Berg, the Schwarza Valley and the Rennsteig high-altitude hiking trail. The village is a state-recognised health resort and lies around 50 kilometres south of Erfurt and about 15 kilometres southeast of Ilmenau.
St. Trinity Church in Großbreitenbach has 600 seats and is Thuringia’s largest half-timbered church. Construction began in 1679 as a replacement for the dilapidated St. John’s Church. Built in 1570, it collapsed in 1771, leaving only its church tower standing. St. Trinity Church was built to plans by Andreas Rudolphi, the Saxon-Gotha court architect, and consecrated in 1690.
The church is entirely clad in slate. A distinctive hexagonal roof turret sits atop the steep roof of the broad nave. The wooden baptismal stand also tells part of the building’s history: it dates from 1677 and was transferred from the old St. John’s Church.
The distinction can help you choose your destination: Friedersdorf is known for its Nature Park Trail and local history, while GroĂźbreitenbach is characterised by its plateau and half-timbered church.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Gehren, Arnstadt, Ichtershausen, Stadtilm, Plaue, Bösleben-Wüllersleben, Stützerbach, Langewiesen.
Back to the main travel overview: Ilm-Kreis.
