Brocken Garden: A Summit Sanctuary
Discover a world of alpine flora at the Brocken Garden, a unique botanical sanctuary atop the Harz Mountains' highest peak, showcasing resilience and conservation.
Perched atop the Brocken, the highest peak in the Harz Mountains, the Brocken Garden is a unique alpine botanical garden showcasing around 1,600 plant species from mountainous regions across the globe. Established in 1890, the garden plays a vital role in the conservation of endangered and rare alpine plants, offering visitors a glimpse into the resilient flora that thrives in this challenging environment. The garden's history is intertwined with the Brocken's own, having faced periods of neglect and closure due to wars and the mountain's use as a military area. Today, it stands as a testament to the dedication of scientists and gardeners who have worked to restore and maintain this remarkable collection. Explore the garden's diverse collection and learn about the unique adaptations that allow these plants to flourish in the harsh Brocken climate. Note that access to the garden is restricted to guided tours during certain times of the year, so plan accordingly.
A brief summary to Brocken Garden
- Wernigerode, 38879, DE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the Brocken Garden's opening hours and guided tour schedule in advance, as access may be limited during certain times of the year.
- Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers, as the weather on the Brocken summit can be unpredictable and significantly colder than in the surrounding lowlands.
- Consider taking the Brocken Railway for a scenic and relaxing journey to the summit, as access by car is prohibited.
- Explore the Brockenhaus museum to learn about the mountain's history, natural environment, and its role in German espionage.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from the Brocken summit and the unique beauty of the alpine plants in the Brocken Garden.
Getting There
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Train
The most common and scenic way to reach the Brocken Garden is via the Brocken Railway (Brockenbahn), a historic narrow-gauge steam train. Board the train at Wernigerode, Drei Annen Hohne, or Schierke. A round trip ticket from Wernigerode to Brocken costs approximately €51 for adults and €30.50 for children (ages 6-14). From Drei Annen Hohne, the one way trip takes about 50 minutes. Upon arrival at the Brocken station, the Brocken Garden is a short walk away, following signs for the Gipfelrundweg (summit circular path). Note that the train ticket covers the transportation to the summit area; entrance to the Brocken Garden itself is free.
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Walking
For those who prefer to hike, several well-marked trails lead to the Brocken summit from nearby towns like Schierke, Torfhaus and Ilsenburg. The final approach to the Brocken Garden involves following the Gipfelrundweg (summit circular path) from the Brocken railway station or other points on the summit. Be prepared for a steep climb and changing weather conditions. There are no additional costs involved in reaching the Brocken Garden on foot, as access to the garden itself is free. Note that the hike from Schierke via Eckerloch is about 5 km and requires good physical condition.
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Horse-drawn Carriage
An alternative, albeit less common, option is to take a horse-drawn carriage (Brockenkremser) from Schierke to the Brocken summit. This option is available from Schierke. From the drop-off point on the summit, follow the signs for the Gipfelrundweg (summit circular path) to reach the Brocken Garden. Prices vary, but expect to pay around €30-€50 per person for the round trip. Confirm pricing and availability in Schierke.
Discover more about Brocken Garden
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Brocken
0.2 km
Ascend to the legendary Brocken, the Harz Mountains' highest peak, and discover breathtaking views, captivating history, and enchanting folklore amidst a unique subalpine landscape.
Urwaldstieg
1.9 km
Discover the untouched beauty of the Harz National Park on the Urwaldstieg, a short trail through a centuries-old primeval forest near Brocken mountain.
Eckerlochstieg (Brücke über Schwarzes Schluftwasser)
2.1 km
Discover the enchanting Eckerlochstieg bridge in Harz National Park: a scenic gateway to breathtaking hikes, lush forests, and the majestic Brocken peak.
Eckerlochstieg
3.1 km
Experience the Harz National Park's rugged beauty on the Eckerlochstieg, a challenging hiking trail to the Brocken summit offering stunning views and diverse landscapes.
Märchenpfad "Das weiße Reh"
3.3 km
Hike through an enchanting fairytale in Harz National Park on the Märchenpfad Das weiße Reh, a 5km trail to Brocken's peak, perfect for families seeking adventure and folklore.
Alter Grenzweg
4.4 km
Hike a poignant path through history on the Alter Grenzweg near Wernigerode, where the former East-West German border now thrives as a Green Belt.
Harz
5.5 km
Explore the mystical Harz Mountains: Hike through ancient forests, discover medieval towns, and uncover legends in Germany's enchanting northern highlands.
Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum TorfHaus
5.5 km
Discover the Harz National Park: Explore interactive exhibits, hike scenic trails, and immerse yourself in the wilderness from the TorfHaus Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure.
Wurmberg-Steinbruch (Vogelschutzgebiet)
5.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Wurmberg-Steinbruch near Braunlage, a reclaimed quarry turned bird sanctuary, offering a tranquil escape into nature in the Harz.
Oberer Bodewasserfall
5.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Oberer Bodewasserfall in Braunlage, a stunning natural waterfall that captivates with its serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Scherstorklippen
6.0 km
Discover the majestic Scherstorklippen, a stunning granite tor formation in the Harz Mountains, offering panoramic views, unique hiking trails, and a glimpse into the region's rich natural history.
Ottofelsen
6.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling climbs at Ottofelsen, a granite landmark in the heart of Germany's Harz Mountains, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
Ilsestein
6.6 km
Discover the legendary Ilsestein in the Harz Mountains: Hike to the summit for breathtaking views, explore its rich history, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Ilse Valley.
Luchsgehege - Beobachtungsplattform an der Rabenklippe
7.5 km
Observe reintroduced lynx in their natural habitat at the Luchsgehege near Rabenklippe, offering stunning views and hiking trails in the Harz National Park, a unique wildlife experience.
Wolfswarte
7.9 km
Discover panoramic views and a rich history at the Wolfswarte, a captivating quartzite rock formation in the heart of the Harz Mountains, perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Teufelskanzel
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich folklore at Teufelskanzel, a stunning viewpoint in the Harz Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Nordstern
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Nordstern, a stunning tourist attraction in Wernigerode's Harz Mountains, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Kompassscheibe
0.2 km
Explore the Kompassscheibe in Wernigerode: A unique compass rose showcasing navigational history amidst enchanting scenery.
Brockenhaus
0.3 km
Explore Brockenhaus: A captivating visitor center on the Brocken plateau, bridging nature and culture in the heart of Harz National Park.
Sendeturm Brocken
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Sendeturm Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany's Harz Mountains.
Soldatenstein
1.9 km
Discover the breathtaking Soldatenstein in Wernigerode, a hiker's paradise offering stunning views and serene trails through nature's beauty.
Harz Steam Railway
2.6 km
Experience the magic of the Harz Steam Railway, a historic narrow-gauge train journey through Germany's stunning Harz mountains, perfect for all adventure lovers.
Haifischfelsen
3.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Haifischfelsen, a premier hiking area in Wernigerode, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Dreieckiger Pfahl
3.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Dreieckiger Pfahl in the Harz Mountains – a perfect blend of nature and history for every tourist.
Nationalparkhaus Schierke
3.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Harz Mountains at Nationalparkhaus Schierke, your gateway to adventure and tranquility.
Obere Ilsefälle
3.6 km
Explore the stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes of Obere Ilsefälle, a premier hiking destination in the Harz region, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Ferdinandsstein
3.6 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Ferdinandsstein in the Harz mountains, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers.
Pfortenberg
4.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Pfortenberg, a serene tourist attraction in Ilsenburg, Germany.
Altes Gemäuer
4.0 km
Experience the rich history and stunning natural beauty at Altes Gemäuer, a must-visit tourist attraction in Ilsenburg, Harz.
Böser Hund
4.1 km
Explore Böser Hund, a serene tourist attraction in Germany offering stunning landscapes and a peaceful escape into nature's beauty.
Essential places to dine
Touristensaal auf dem Brocken
0.2 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views at Touristensaal auf dem Brocken atop Germany's highest peak.
Café am Kurpark
4.8 km
Discover authentic German cuisine at Café am Kurpark in Wernigerode—your perfect spot for relaxation amidst beautiful park scenery.
Waldgasthaus Plessenburg
5.1 km
Experience delightful German cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Waldgasthaus Plessenburg in the Harz mountains.
Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke
5.1 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor amidst scenic beauty.
Villa Bodeblick ǀ Hotel & Restaurant
5.3 km
Discover Villa Bodeblick: A charming hotel and restaurant in Wernigerode offering delightful breakfasts and serene accommodations amidst stunning landscapes.
Hexenritt Schirmbar
5.3 km
Experience authentic Bavarian cuisine at Hexenritt Schirmbar – where nature meets tradition in Braunlage's beautiful landscape.
Hexenritt Alm
5.3 km
Discover Hexenritt Alm: A delightful restaurant offering traditional German cuisine and stunning mountain views in Braunlage.
Montevino Vin'Osteria
5.4 km
Discover the best breakfast and pizza experience in Wernigerode at Montevino Vin'Osteria.
Restaurant Luis
5.5 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine in the heart of Schierke at Restaurant Luis - where every meal tells a story.
Bavaria Alm Torfhaus
5.6 km
Discover authentic Bavarian cuisine with stunning views at Bavaria Alm Torfhaus in Germany's beautiful Harz region.
Molkenhaus Bad Harzburg
7.1 km
Discover exquisite regional cuisine at Molkenhaus Bad Harzburg, your perfect retreat in the scenic Harz mountains.
Tenne Schwof & Schmaus Am Blueberry Hill
7.3 km
Discover the flavors of Braunlage at Tenne Schwof & Schmaus Am Blueberry Hill—where culinary tradition meets modern dining in a stunning setting.
Waldgasthaus Rabenklippe
7.4 km
Discover culinary delights at Waldgasthaus Rabenklippe, where authentic German cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in Bad Harzburg.
Nagelschmiede by Christian Meierding-Schmidt
7.6 km
Experience culinary excellence at Nagelschmiede by Christian Meierding-Schmidt in Ilsenburg - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus Braunlage
7.7 km
Discover comfort and authentic German cuisine at Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus in Braunlage - your gateway to the scenic beauty of the Harz mountains.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Schierker Feuerstein Stammhaus
4.9 km
Explore the rich tradition of Schierker Feuerstein, a unique liqueur brand in the heart of the Harz Mountains, offering tours and charming accommodations.
Harzspots GmbH
5.4 km
Explore the Harz Mountains with Harzspots GmbH: Your premier tourist information center in Wernigerode, Germany.
Globetrotter Equipment GmbH
5.6 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Globetrotter Equipment GmbH in Altenau - your one-stop shop for camping, skiing, and climbing gear.
Harzturm GmbH
5.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and family-friendly fun at Harzturm GmbH, your destination in the heart of the Harz Mountains.
Harzer Spezialitäten & Brotzeitstube puppe‘s
7.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of the Harz region at Puppe’s, a delightful deli and bistro in Braunlage offering local specialties and souvenirs.
Harzsneaks
7.9 km
Discover unique styles and local flair at Harzsneaks, the premier clothing store in Braunlage, perfect for fashion-savvy tourists.
Ottos Sport & Tracht
7.9 km
Discover the charm of German traditions at Ottos Sport & Tracht, your go-to destination for authentic costumes and outdoor sports gear in Braunlage.
Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten
8.0 km
Discover the authentic flavors of the Harz region at Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten, the premier butcher shop in Braunlage, Germany.
Gamaswelt Braunlage
8.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gamaswelt Braunlage, a charming gift shop in the heart of the picturesque town of Braunlage.
Drei Annen Hohne
8.1 km
Discover the enchanting Harz Mountains from Drei Annen Hohne, a picturesque train station perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic exploration.
Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion
8.2 km
Shop sustainably at Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion, where style meets eco-consciousness in the heart of Braunlage.
KiK Braunlage
8.8 km
Discover budget-friendly fashion and home essentials at KiK Braunlage, your go-to destination for affordable shopping in a charming setting.
Waldschwimmbad Okerteich
10.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Waldschwimmbad Okerteich, an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by breathtaking nature, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Harzer-Baumkuchen Baumkuchenhaus
11.2 km
Experience the unique flavors of traditional Baumkuchen in the heart of Wernigerode at Harzer-Baumkuchen Baumkuchenhaus, a sweet delight for every visitor.
Wergona Chocolate GmbH
11.2 km
Discover the magic of artisanal chocolates at Wergona Chocolate GmbH in Wernigerode, where every bite is a delightful experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pension Mühlhahn
4.4 km
Discover the charm of Pension Mühlhahn, your cozy guest house in Wernigerode, offering delightful dining and breathtaking views of the Harz mountains.
Schirmbar Hexenritt
5.3 km
Experience the charm of the mountains at Schirmbar Hexenritt, a cozy bar in Braunlage offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.
Waldgaststätte zur Kamelfichte
6.3 km
Experience authentic German cuisine and a charming beer garden in the heart of Braunlage's stunning natural landscape.
Bar Milano im San Siro
7.3 km
Discover Bar Milano in Braunlage, where Italian hospitality meets vibrant nightlife with cocktails and tapas to delight every traveler.
Travellers Cafe Bar
7.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Travellers Cafe Bar in Braunlage, where friendly service and a cozy ambiance meet for an unforgettable night.
John's Bar
7.5 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of John's Bar in Braunlage, a perfect retreat after enjoying the breathtaking Harz mountains.
Hotel & Restaurant Memory in Braunlage
7.8 km
Discover Braunlage's Memory Hotel & Restaurant, where comfort meets delightful dining and a vibrant bar experience amidst breathtaking nature.
Hirschgrund-Biergarten
7.8 km
Experience the beauty of Braunlage at Hirschgrund-Biergarten, where local brews and stunning views combine for a perfect getaway.
Hille-Bille „betreutes Trinken“
7.8 km
Discover the charm of Hille-Bille, a cozy gastropub in Braunlage, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere await tourists and locals alike.
Hotel Wagner - Die Kleine Zauberwelt
7.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and fine dining at Hotel Wagner - Die Kleine Zauberwelt in Braunlage, a hidden gem in the Harz mountains.
Zum Harzer Roller
8.0 km
Experience authentic German cuisine in the heart of Braunlage at Zum Harzer Roller, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere await.
The VALHALLA Bar
8.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The VALHALLA Bar in Braunlage, where every evening is filled with fun, great drinks, and unforgettable moments.
Drink'A'Bell Pub und Café
8.1 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Drink'A'Bell Pub und Café, where live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks unite in Braunlage.
BegebaR
8.2 km
Discover the inviting atmosphere of BegebaR, a must-visit bar in Braunlage offering local brews, cozy vibes, and vibrant community interactions.
Kneipchen
8.4 km
Experience the charm of Kneipchen, a cozy pub in Ilsenburg, offering local brews and hearty meals for a delightful evening.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Klima Club Lounge
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Ilsenburg at Klima Club Lounge, where disco meets lounge in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Elmo Klub Wernigerode
11.5 km
Experience Wernigerode's nightlife at Elmo Klub, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere await every visitor seeking a memorable night out.
Harz Club
19.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Harz Club in Clausthal-Zellerfeld, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable evening.
Harz-Mountains Ranch
20.0 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Harz-Mountains Ranch, nestled in the stunning Harz Mountains, perfect for unforgettable nights out.
Nachtschicht
20.6 km
Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of Nachtschicht, Goslar's top disco club, where unforgettable nights await with music and dance.
MLK Area Blankenburg
21.7 km
Dive into the lively nightlife at MLK Area Blankenburg, where great music, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere await.
HarzMATCH.de
24.0 km
Discover the lively nightlife at HarzMATCH.de in Blankenburg (Harz), where music, dancing, and social connections await every visitor.
Discothek Beat Club
24.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Langelsheim at Discothek Beat Club, the ultimate destination for music lovers and party enthusiasts.
Klubraum deluxe
26.9 km
Discover the cozy warmth of Klubraum Deluxe, a charming bar in Timmenrode perfect for unwinding and enjoying local drinks.
MIP
28.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife at MIP, a premier night club in Osterode am Harz, where unforgettable moments and vibrant music await.
Palithi Discotheque
29.2 km
Discover the energy and excitement of Palithi Discotheque, a top night club in Herzberg am Harz for music lovers and party enthusiasts.
Bergtheater Thale
29.3 km
Discover the enchanting Bergtheater Thale, where captivating performances meet breathtaking views in the heart of the Harz Mountains.
Stereowerk
50.6 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Stereowerk, Braunschweig's nightlife gem, where music and dance come together in an unforgettable experience.
Brain Klub - Braunschweig
51.6 km
Unleash your spirit and dance the night away at Brain Klub, Braunschweig's premier disco club, where every night is a celebration of music and joy.
Privileg Club
51.7 km
Privileg Club: A vibrant night club in Braunschweig, perfect for dancing and enjoying the local nightlife scene.
