Drei-Länder-Stein, Harz National Park Travel Guide

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Discover the historic tripoint of the Drei-Länder-Stein in the Harz Mountains, where three German states converge amidst stunning natural beauty and Cold War history.

The Drei-Länder-Stein, a historical boundary stone, marks the meeting point of three German states: Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia. Erected around 1749, it has witnessed centuries of shifting borders and political landscapes. Once a significant point along the Inner German Border during the Cold War, it now stands as a symbol of German unity within the scenic Harz region. Surrounded by hiking trails and lush forests, the Drei-Länder-Stein offers a unique blend of historical reflection and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the area's rich past while enjoying the tranquility of the Harz National Park, making it a worthwhile destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. The stone itself bears inscriptions reflecting its layered past, offering a tangible connection to the region's complex history. A visit here provides a moment to contemplate Germany's journey and appreciate the beauty of its present unity.

A brief summary to Drei-Länder-Stein

Unnamed Road,38877, Benneckenstein, 38877, DE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Drei-Länder-Stein.

Wear sturdy shoes, as the trails leading to the Drei-Länder-Stein can be uneven and rocky.
Bring a Harzer Wandernadel stamp booklet to collect a stamp at the nearby Herrmann-Kerl-Hütte.
Combine your visit with a hike along the Harz Border Way to explore more of the former Inner German Border.
Visit the Drei-Länder-Stein during the off-season for a more peaceful and solitary experience.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions in the Harz Mountains can change rapidly.

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Explore Drei-Länder-Stein on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Drei-Länder-Stein, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

If arriving by car, navigate to the Jägerfleck parking area on Bundesstraße 4 (B4), located less than 100 meters southwest of the Drei-Länder-Stein. Parking is generally free. From the parking area, follow the signs for a short walk to the stone.
Public Transport

While direct public transport to the Drei-Länder-Stein is limited, you can take a bus to nearby towns like Benneckenstein. From Benneckenstein, the Drei-Länder-Stein is approximately a 3.3km hike. Bus line 563 connects Benneckenstein with Hasselfelde. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information. From Benneckenstein, follow hiking trails towards Großer Ehrenberg; the Drei-Länder-Stein is well-signposted. No costs are associated beyond the initial bus fare to the town.
Walking

From Benneckenstein, follow the well-marked hiking trails in the direction of Großer Ehrenberg. The Drei-Länder-Stein is approximately a 3.3km hike from Benneckenstein. The trails are generally well-maintained, but sturdy footwear is recommended. The hike should take approximately 1-1.5 hours. There are no costs associated with walking to the Drei-Länder-Stein.

Discover more about Drei-Länder-Stein

Nestled in the South Harz region, near the Großer Ehrenberg mountain, the Drei-Länder-Stein is more than just a boundary marker; it's a tangible link to German history and a testament to the country's reunification. This unassuming stone, likely erected around 1749, marks the tripoint where the federal states of Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia converge. It also represents the meeting point of the administrative districts of Goslar, Harz, and Nordhausen, as well as the Harz, Harz/Saxony-Anhalt, and South Harz nature parks. Originally inscribed with 'HB' (Herzogtum Braunschweig – Duchy of Brunswick), 'AB' (Amt Benneckenstein), later changed to 'KP' (Königreich Preußen – Kingdom of Prussia), and 'GW' (Gräflich-Wernigeröder Forstgebiet – Comital Wernigerode Forest Estate), the Drei-Länder-Stein tells a story of shifting allegiances and evolving territories. However, its most poignant chapter unfolded during the Cold War era. From 1945 to 1990, the Drei-Länder-Stein stood as a stark reminder of Germany's division, becoming a boundary point along the Inner German Border. It separated the British Zone of Occupation in the west from the Soviet Zone of Occupation in the east, and later, West Germany from East Germany. The infamous Iron Curtain, complete with its patrol path (Kolonnenweg), ran directly past this point, symbolizing the ideological and physical divide that cleaved the nation in two. Today, the Kolonnenweg, once a symbol of oppression, has been transformed into a hiking trail, allowing visitors to retrace the steps of border guards and reflect on the impact of the Cold War. Since German Unity Day on October 3, 1990, the Drei-Länder-Stein has marked the peaceful union of Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia. It now forms part of the German Green Belt, a network of habitats along the former Iron Curtain, promoting biodiversity and ecological preservation. The area surrounding the Drei-Länder-Stein is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The Harzer Wandernadel, a system of checkpoints throughout the Harz region, includes the Drei-Länder-Stein as station number 47. A refuge hut, located just northeast of the stone, provides shelter and a place to collect the corresponding stamp in your hiking pass. The Harz Border Way, a 75-kilometer trail tracing the former Inner German Border, also passes by the Drei-Länder-Stein, offering a longer and more immersive historical hiking experience. Located approximately 3.3 kilometers southeast of Hohegeiß, 3.3 kilometers south-southwest of Benneckenstein, and 1.8 kilometers northwest of Rothesütte, the Drei-Länder-Stein is easily accessible for those exploring the Harz region. A parking area called Jägerfleck, situated less than 100 meters southwest of the stone along the Bundesstraße 4, provides a convenient starting point for your visit. While the Drei-Länder-Stein itself may appear as a simple stone in the forest, its historical significance and the surrounding natural beauty make it a compelling destination. It serves as a reminder of Germany's turbulent past and a symbol of its hard-won unity. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a hiking aficionado, or simply seeking a peaceful escape into nature, the Drei-Länder-Stein offers a unique and enriching experience. Imagine standing at the very spot where three German states meet, where the echoes of the Cold War still resonate, and where the beauty of the Harz forest unfolds before you. The Drei-Länder-Stein invites you to contemplate the past, appreciate the present, and embrace the enduring power of unity. Beyond the historical significance, the Drei-Länder-Stein offers a chance to connect with nature. The surrounding forests are home to diverse flora and fauna, providing opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the natural world. The hiking trails cater to various skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging climbs, ensuring that everyone can find an adventure that suits their preferences. The Drei-Länder-Stein is more than just a geographical marker; it's a place where history, nature, and reflection converge. It's a destination that will leave you with a deeper understanding of Germany's past and a renewed appreciation for its present. So, pack your hiking boots, bring your camera, and prepare to be captivated by the story of the Drei-Länder-Stein.