HarzWaldHaus: Discover the Natural Wonders of the Harz
Explore the natural wonders of the Harz Mountains at the HarzWaldHaus in Bad Harzburg: interactive exhibits, Germany's largest formicarium, and insights into the region's unique ecosystem.
The HarzWaldHaus, formerly known as the House of Nature, is an interactive natural history museum located in Bad Harzburg, offering a fascinating glimpse into the flora, fauna, and ecological processes of the Harz Mountains. Situated in the spa gardens near the Burgberg cable car, this engaging museum features exhibits suitable for all ages, including Germany's largest indoor formicarium, where visitors can observe the intricate workings of an ant colony. Learn about the reintroduced lynx population, explore the lifecycle of the forest, and test your knowledge with interactive displays. With its accessible design and central location, the HarzWaldHaus provides an enriching and educational experience for anyone interested in the natural world of the Harz region. It serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Harz National Park and its many natural attractions.
A brief summary to House of nature
- Nordhäuser Str. 2e, Bad Harzburg, 38667, DE
- +495322784337
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit the HarzWaldHaus in the morning to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore all the exhibits.
- Combine your visit with a ride on the Burgberg cable car for stunning views of Bad Harzburg and the surrounding Harz Mountains.
- Check the HarzWaldHaus website for special events, guided tours, and temporary exhibitions.
- Take advantage of the HarzCard for free admission to the HarzWaldHaus and other attractions in the region.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and standing while exploring the exhibits.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Bad Harzburg Rathaus (town hall) or the central Marktplatz, the HarzWaldHaus is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Head south, following signs for the Burgberg-Seilbahn (cable car). The HarzWaldHaus is located in the spa gardens, next to the lower station of the cable car. The path is mostly flat and well-maintained.
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Public Transport
The closest bus stop to the HarzWaldHaus is 'Bad Harzburg, Herz.-Wilh.-Str./Forstwiese' or 'Bad Harzburg, Burgberg Seilbahn'. From either stop, it's a short walk (5 minutes or less) to the museum. Local bus lines 810, 820, 821, 871, 873, 874, and 875 serve these stops. A single bus fare within Bad Harzburg typically costs around €2-€3.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Nordhäuser Straße 2e, 38667 Bad Harzburg. Limited paid parking is available directly at the HarzWaldHaus. Alternatively, use the larger, free car park on the B4 just south of the town, from which it is a 5-minute walk through the spa park to the HarzWaldHaus. Parking fees at the HarzWaldHaus are approximately €1-€2 per hour, with a maximum of €6 for 4 hours. The free car park on B4 requires a 5-10 minute walk.
Discover more about House of nature
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Luchsgehege - Beobachtungsplattform an der Rabenklippe
3.0 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.
Feigenbaumklippe
5.6 km
Discover panoramic views and geological wonders at the Feigenbaumklippe in Bad Harzburg, a captivating granite rock formation in the heart of the Harz Mountains.
Verlobungsinsel in der Oker HWN 116
6.0 km
Discover the enchanting Verlobungsinsel in the Oker Valley, a romantic island escape surrounded by stunning natural beauty, perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking tranquility.
Ilsestein
7.6 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.
Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum TorfHaus
7.9 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.
Rammelsberg
8.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Rammelsberg Mountain Peak near Goslar, a UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for adventure and exploration.
Brocken
8.9 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.
Das Breite Tor
9.5 km
Discover the Breite Tor, a stunning medieval gate in Goslar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering rich history and beautiful surroundings.
UNESCO in the Harz
9.9 km
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site in the Harz Mountains: Discover Goslar's medieval charm, delve into the Rammelsberg Mine, and marvel at the Upper Harz Water Management System.
Wolfswarte
9.9 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.
Urwaldstieg
10.7 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)
11.2 km
Discover the enchanting Eckerlochstieg bridge in Harz National Park: a scenic gateway to breathtaking hikes, lush forests, and the majestic Brocken peak.
Eckerlochstieg
12.1 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.
Königsberg
12.2 km
Discover Königsberg near Goslar: Hike scenic trails, explore the historic site of Königsberg Sanatorium, and immerse yourself in the Harz region's natural beauty.
Märchenpfad "Das weiße Reh"
12.4 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Märchenwald
0.2 km
Explore Märchenwald, a fairy tale amusement park in Bad Harzburg, where magic and adventure await families and visitors of all ages.
Baumwipfelpfad Harz
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting treetop walkway of Baumwipfelpfad Harz, a scenic attraction that connects you with nature and offers stunning views.
Wurzelpfad Harz
0.3 km
Explore Wurzelpfad Harz, a stunning hiking trail in Bad Harzburg, perfect for families and nature lovers seeking adventure in Germany's picturesque Harz region.
Canossa Pillar
0.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Canossa Pillar in Bad Harzburg, a stunning monument offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the picturesque Harz Mountains.
Burgberg Harzburg
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Burgberg Harzburg, a must-visit tourist attraction in Bad Harzburg offering adventure and tranquility.
Wildkatzen-Erlebnispfad
0.6 km
Explore the Wildkatzen-Erlebnispfad in Bad Harzburg for an unforgettable adventure into the world of wildcats and scenic nature trails.
Baumschwebebahn Bad Harzburg
0.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Harz National Park with a ride on the Baumschwebebahn Bad Harzburg, a thrilling aerial tramway experience.
Rudolfklippe
1.9 km
Explore Rudolfklippe in Bad Harzburg, a stunning rock formation with breathtaking views and rich history, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Winterbergklippe
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Winterbergklippe in Harz National Park, a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
Kreuz des deutschen Ostens HWN 122
2.2 km
Explore Kreuz des deutschen Ostens in Bad Harzburg - a scenic memorial blending history and nature in the heart of the Harz mountains.
Harzburger Fenster
2.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene beauty at the Harzburger Fenster, a must-visit scenic spot in Goslar, Germany, surrounded by enchanting landscapes.
Radau Wasserfall
2.3 km
Experience the natural beauty of Radau Wasserfall in Bad Harzburg, a must-visit waterfall and hiking destination in the Harz Mountains.
Eckertalsperre
3.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Eckertalsperre, a stunning reservoir in the Harz Mountains, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Östlicher Langenberg
4.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene trails of Östlicher Langenberg, a hidden gem for nature lovers near Bad Harzburg.
Altes Gemäuer
5.1 km
Experience the rich history and stunning natural beauty at Altes Gemäuer, a must-visit tourist attraction in Ilsenburg, Harz.
Essential places to dine
Molkenhaus Bad Harzburg
2.0 km
Discover exquisite regional cuisine at Molkenhaus Bad Harzburg, your perfect retreat in the scenic Harz mountains.
Radau-Waterfall
2.3 km
Experience nature's splendor at Radau Waterfall in Bad Harzburg – a stunning cascade surrounded by lush forests and scenic trails.
Waldgasthaus Rabenklippe
3.1 km
Discover culinary delights at Waldgasthaus Rabenklippe, where authentic German cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in Bad Harzburg.
Bavaria Alm Torfhaus
7.9 km
Discover authentic Bavarian cuisine with stunning views at Bavaria Alm Torfhaus in Germany's beautiful Harz region.
Nagelschmiede by Christian Meierding-Schmidt
7.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Nagelschmiede by Christian Meierding-Schmidt in Ilsenburg - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Waldgasthaus Plessenburg
8.6 km
Experience delightful German cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Waldgasthaus Plessenburg in the Harz mountains.
Touristensaal auf dem Brocken
8.8 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views at Touristensaal auf dem Brocken atop Germany's highest peak.
Klosterkrug Wöltingerode
9.7 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Klosterkrug Wöltingerode amidst scenic landscapes and warm hospitality.
Klippen - Grill Inh. Matthias Biesel
11.1 km
Discover Klippen - Grill in Altenau for an unforgettable steakhouse experience amidst breathtaking Harz landscapes.
Café am Kurpark
13.7 km
Discover authentic German cuisine at Café am Kurpark in Wernigerode—your perfect spot for relaxation amidst beautiful park scenery.
Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke
14.1 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
14.2 km
Discover Villa Bodeblick: A charming hotel and restaurant in Wernigerode offering delightful breakfasts and serene accommodations amidst stunning landscapes.
Hexenritt Schirmbar
14.2 km
Experience authentic Bavarian cuisine at Hexenritt Schirmbar – where nature meets tradition in Braunlage's beautiful landscape.
Hexenritt Alm
14.2 km
Discover Hexenritt Alm: A delightful restaurant offering traditional German cuisine and stunning mountain views in Braunlage.
Montevino Vin'Osteria
14.3 km
Discover the best breakfast and pizza experience in Wernigerode at Montevino Vin'Osteria.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Outdoor-Concepts.de - Outdoor und Survival
4.9 km
Discover Outdoor-Concepts.de in Bad Harzburg, your one-stop shop for top-notch outdoor gear and expert advice for all your adventures.
Harzturm GmbH
7.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and family-friendly fun at Harzturm GmbH, your destination in the heart of the Harz Mountains.
Globetrotter Equipment GmbH
8.0 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Globetrotter Equipment GmbH in Altenau - your one-stop shop for camping, skiing, and climbing gear.
Or Mark Fashion Outlet
9.3 km
Experience exceptional fashion deals at Or Mark Fashion Outlet in Goslar, your ultimate destination for trendy clothing at unbeatable prices.
Harz Tourism e. V.
10.0 km
Explore the wonders of the Harz region at Goslar's Tourist Information Center, your gateway to adventures and rich cultural experiences.
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
13.7 km
Experience the unique flavors of traditional Baumkuchen in the heart of Wernigerode at Harzer-Baumkuchen Baumkuchenhaus, a sweet delight for every visitor.
Schierker Feuerstein Stammhaus
13.8 km
Explore the rich tradition of Schierker Feuerstein, a unique liqueur brand in the heart of the Harz Mountains, offering tours and charming accommodations.
Wergona Chocolate GmbH
14.0 km
Discover the magic of artisanal chocolates at Wergona Chocolate GmbH in Wernigerode, where every bite is a delightful experience.
Harzspots GmbH
14.3 km
Explore the Harz Mountains with Harzspots GmbH: Your premier tourist information center in Wernigerode, Germany.
Altstadt-Passagen
15.8 km
Explore the vibrant Altstadt-Passagen in Wernigerode, where shopping meets dining in a lively atmosphere filled with unique finds and local charm.
Drei Annen Hohne
16.0 km
Discover the enchanting Harz Mountains from Drei Annen Hohne, a picturesque train station perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic exploration.
Train Line Gartenbahnen GmbH Store
16.0 km
Explore the enchanting world of model trains at Train Line Gartenbahnen GmbH Store in Wernigerode, a paradise for enthusiasts and curious tourists.
Finest Harz specialties
16.1 km
Savor authentic local flavors at the Finest Harz Specialties grocery store, your go-to destination for regional delicacies in Wernigerode.
Carpe Diem Inh.:Kathrin Elmrich
16.1 km
Explore Carpe Diem in Wernigerode for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and a warm shopping experience that embodies the charm of the Harz region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bier-Comptoir
0.5 km
Experience the heart of Bad Harzburg at Bier-Comptoir, where local beers and hearty dishes come together in a vibrant gastropub setting.
Worchs Terrasse
1.1 km
Discover Worchs Terrasse in Bad Harzburg, a charming bar offering a serene atmosphere, delightful drinks, and stunning views for an unforgettable experience.
Blues Pub
1.2 km
Discover the heart of Bad Harzburg's nightlife at Blues Pub, where live music meets a cozy atmosphere and refreshing drinks await.
Baude
1.2 km
Experience the best of traditional German pub culture at Baude in Bad Harzburg, where great food and local brews await.
Wieder da
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bad Harzburg at Wieder da, where great drinks, rock music, and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
Kleine Kneipe
2.1 km
Experience the charm of Kleine Kneipe, a cozy bar in Bad Harzburg perfect for unwinding after exploring the beauty of the Harz Mountains.
Dart Lounge An der Radau
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant Dart Lounge An der Radau in Bad Harzburg, where sports, drinks, and camaraderie create unforgettable moments.
Kneipchen
8.1 km
Experience the charm of Kneipchen, a cozy pub in Ilsenburg, offering local brews and hearty meals for a delightful evening.
na und... die Musikkneipe
9.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Na und... die Musikkneipe, a lively pub in Goslar featuring live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Altes Backhaus
11.1 km
Discover the authentic German pub experience at Altes Backhaus, a beloved local gem in Altenau, known for its cozy atmosphere and variety of drinks.
Das Harzer Cocktail Taxi
12.4 km
Discover the charm of Das Harzer Cocktail Taxi, a cocktail bar in the heart of Harz, serving exquisite drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Pension Mühlhahn
13.4 km
Discover the charm of Pension Mühlhahn, your cozy guest house in Wernigerode, offering delightful dining and breathtaking views of the Harz mountains.
Waldgaststätte zur Kamelfichte
13.8 km
Experience authentic German cuisine and a charming beer garden in the heart of Braunlage's stunning natural landscape.
Schirmbar Hexenritt
14.2 km
Experience the charm of the mountains at Schirmbar Hexenritt, a cozy bar in Braunlage offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.
Bar Milano im San Siro
15.8 km
Discover Bar Milano in Braunlage, where Italian hospitality meets vibrant nightlife with cocktails and tapas to delight every traveler.
