Unterkatz: Fortified Church and Rhön Landscape

The imposing church defines Unterkatz: it stands on a small hill in the center of the village and is a local landmark. Unterkatz is also part of the Thuringian Rhön; from here, hikers can explore the landscape of the Vorder Rhön. The village and its surrounding landscape give the place two distinct facets.

The Church and the Village

The church in Unterkatz is the only fortified church in the Katzagrund valley. Remnants of a partially restored defensive wall can be seen around it. The description “fortified church” also draws attention to the building’s defensive character. The old school, rectory, and old parish barn are also located close to the church. This landmark is thus complemented by other named buildings in the village. If you are interested in the architectural features of a destination, you will find a clear local focus here.

Hiking and Choosing Accommodation

From Unterkatz, hikers can explore the landscape of the Vorder Rhön. Consider whether you would like to focus more on the church and village or on hiking in the surrounding landscape during your trip.

Wasungen: Gardens, Culture, and Trails

The Wasungen Forest Botanical Garden is home to 162 genera of woody plants, with 1,700 different species and forms, across around 5 hectares. Guided tours led by specialists are available for a fee and by advance reservation; Circular Trail 1 goes around the garden. This offers a different nature experience from exploring the landscape around Unterkatz: in Wasungen, the focus is on a named botanical collection. If you are interested in a guided tour led by a specialist, remember to book in advance.

The historic center of Wasungen is protected as an ensemble and designated a listed area. The Wasungen Carnival culminates in a historic parade held every year on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday. If you would like to plan your trip around this event, check the dates for the year in question, as the date follows the carnival calendar. Wasungen therefore offers both an enduring cultural attraction and an annual event.

For long-distance hikes, the 96 km HWO2 connects Wasungen with Schlitz. Circular Trail 2 goes around the Rupperg to the Kleine Zehn Buchen, while Circular Route 3 goes around the Mordtal to the Oberwallbachsmühle. A section of the Heinrich Cotta Hiking Trail leads from the Forest Botanical Garden to Heinrich Cotta’s birthplace in Kleine Zillbach. The Werra Valley Cycle Path runs along the left bank of the Werra through Wasungen. The routes vary in activity and destination: long-distance hiking, circular hikes, a biographical connection, and cycling along the river. The distinction is useful when choosing a route: Circular Trail 1 goes around the garden, while the section of the Heinrich Cotta Hiking Trail leads from there to his birthplace in Kleine Zillbach.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Springstille, Schmalkalden, Meiningen, Kaltensundheim, Grabfeld, Oepfershausen, Kühndorf, Wernshausen

Go to the regional travel overview: Schmalkalden-Meiningen.