Hesserode: Trails, St. Viti and the Forest Stage
Accommodation in Hesserode
Hesserode offers several starting points for planning your trip: you can explore the area on foot or by bike via the NĂĽxeier Weg, St. Viti tells the story of the village, and the Forest Stage adds a distinctive touch. It is the only forest stage in the city of Nordhausen and is located in Hesserode. When choosing accommodation, consider whether outdoor activities, historical details or an event date will be the deciding factor for your stay.
Getting around Hesserode
The Nüxeier Weg leads, among other places, to Niedersalza, Salza and Herreden. These destinations give your plans a sense of direction, whether you want to explore the area on foot or by bike. Check the current conditions on the trail before setting out. This lets you tailor your plans to what you want to do without losing sight of the village’s historical themes.
Church history and details at St. Viti
The history of St. Viti Church goes back a long way. In 1252, Count Heinrich II of Honstein transferred the right of patronage over the church to Ilfeld Monastery. In 1333, its foundation received confirmation from the Archbishop of Mainz. A later turning point was the fire that destroyed the previous building: it was struck by lightning in 1733 and burned down completely; St. Viti was rebuilt in 1736. Here, you can encounter various aspects of history: early ecclesiastical rights, the confirmation of the foundation and the rebuilding in the 18th century.
The furnishings also add distinctive touches. The wooden pulpit altar defines the sanctuary; twisted columns and carvings shape its design. Two hand-rung bells hang in the tower. One was donated by the Nebelung family in 1964. If you are particularly interested in this detail, ask before your visit whether both bells are still in the tower. The building’s history, furnishings and bells offer different ways to learn about the church.
The Forest Stage and event dates
The Forest Stage in Hesserode is the only one in the city of Nordhausen. According to the city’s information, the yodeling contest takes place there on the first Sunday of every June, with participants and guests from across the region. An event date can therefore play a different role in your schedule than the Nüxeier Weg or the history of St. Viti. If you want to plan your trip around the contest, check the latest event information in advance.
Getting there by bus
Hesserode is connected to local public transport by bus routes 25, 26, 261 and 262. Route numbers and services may change, so check the latest timetables before travelling. This lets you factor the bus journey into your plans without relying on outdated timetable information.
Culture in the wider destination of Nordhausen
Those looking beyond Hesserode to the wider destination of Nordhausen will find other distinct museum themes there. FLOHBURG | Das Nordhausen Museum presents Nordhausen’s eventful history, from its beginnings to the present day, across three floors. Guided tours are available by appointment; it is best to check the current options in advance. The museum thus focuses on the city’s history.
The Tabakspeicher Museum complements this cultural context with exhibitions covering more than 1,000 m² on crafts, commerce, industry and archaeology. Special interactive areas showcase telecommunications technology from various centuries. Old projection equipment can also be viewed in the cinema room. Schnapps and chewing tobacco are also available for tasting at the Tabakspeicher; check before your trip whether these offerings are available on your date. In Nordhausen, the focus is therefore not only on the city’s history, but also on technology, work and archaeology—topics different from Hesserode’s church and event history.
Discover more destinations
Werther, Harzungen, Nordhausen, Hainrode/Hainleite, Rodishain, Heringen/Helme, Auleben, Wolkramshausen
Back to the overview of the wider destination: Nordhausen.
