TorfHaus National Park Visitor Center: Gateway to the Harz Wilderness
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.
The TorfHaus National Park Visitor Center serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the Harz National Park. Situated in Torfhaus, the highest settlement in Lower Saxony, the center offers panoramic views of the Brocken mountain and the surrounding Radau valley. Delve into the region's unique ecosystems through interactive exhibits detailing the park's diverse flora, fauna, and conservation efforts. Discover the history of Torfhaus, from its origins as a peat-cutting settlement to its current role as a hub for outdoor activities. The center provides comprehensive information on hiking trails, including the popular Goethe Trail to the Brocken, and offers guided tours for a deeper immersion into the Harz wilderness. With its accessible design and engaging displays, the TorfHaus Visitor Center is an essential stop for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
A brief summary to Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum TorfHaus
- Torfhaus 8, Altenau, Torfhaus, 38667, DE
- +495320331790
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before hiking, as conditions in the Harz Mountains can change rapidly.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and appropriate clothing, especially if you plan to explore the moorland or hike to higher elevations.
- Visit the National Park exhibition to learn about the Harz's unique ecosystems and wildlife before venturing into the park.
- Take advantage of the guided tours offered by the visitor center for a deeper understanding of the park's natural and cultural history.
- In winter, check the snow conditions and be prepared for winter sports activities like skiing and tobogganing.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Altenau, take bus line 840 directly to Torfhaus. The bus departs from Altenau, Markt, and arrives at Torfhaus. Services depart approximately every four hours and operate daily. The journey takes about 10 minutes. Bus line 820 also stops at Torfhaus, connecting from Bad Harzburg and Braunlage. The bus stop is located a short walk from the visitor center.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Altenau to Torfhaus takes approximately 6 minutes and costs between €23 and €28. This is a convenient option for those who prefer a direct and faster journey.
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Driving
If driving, follow the B4 towards Torfhaus. Ample parking is available at the Großparkplatz Brockenblick near the visitor center. Parking costs €12 for 24 hours. Be aware that the parking lot can be busy during peak season.
Discover more about Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum TorfHaus
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nationalpark-Besucherzentrum TorfHaus
0.0 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.
Wolfswarte
2.7 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.
Brocken
5.4 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.
Eckerlochstieg (Brücke über Schwarzes Schluftwasser)
6.6 km
Discover the enchanting Eckerlochstieg bridge in Harz National Park: a scenic gateway to breathtaking hikes, lush forests, and the majestic Brocken peak.
Urwaldstieg
7.3 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.
Oberer Bodewasserfall
7.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Oberer Bodewasserfall in Braunlage, a stunning natural waterfall that captivates with its serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Eckerlochstieg
7.6 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.
Alter Grenzweg
7.7 km
Hike a path through history on the Alter Grenzweg near Wernigerode, where the former East/West German border offers scenic trails and poignant reminders of a divided past.
Feigenbaumklippe
7.9 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.
Märchenpfad "Das weiße Reh"
7.9 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.
Wurmberg-Steinbruch (Vogelschutzgebiet)
8.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Wurmberg-Steinbruch, a birdwatching haven in Braunlage, filled with diverse wildlife and scenic beauty.
Luchsgehege - Beobachtungsplattform an der Rabenklippe
8.3 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.
Verlobungsinsel in der Oker HWN 116
8.4 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.
Harz
8.8 km
Explore the mystical Harz Mountains: Hike through ancient forests, discover medieval towns, and uncover legends in Germany's enchanting northern highlands.
Harz Nature Park
9.3 km
Discover the untamed beauty of the Harz Nature Park: Hike through ancient forests, explore historic mining sites, and witness breathtaking views from the legendary Brocken peak.
Unmissable attractions to see
WaldWandelWeg
1.1 km
Explore the serene WaldWandelWeg in Nationalpark Harz, a breathtaking hiking area ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Luchs Denkmal Torfhausmoor
1.4 km
Immerse yourself in nature at Luchs Denkmal Torfhausmoor, a tribute to the lynx in the stunning Harz National Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Oberharz
1.7 km
Discover the serene natural beauty of Oberharz, a pristine nature preserve in Bad Harzburg, perfect for outdoor adventures and wildlife observation.
Ehrenfriedhof Oderbrück
2.4 km
Explore Ehrenfriedhof Oderbrück, a military cemetery that honors the valor of fallen soldiers amidst serene landscapes, perfect for reflection and remembrance.
Harz National Park
2.7 km
Explore breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife at Harz National Park, Germany's premier destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
National Park Harz
3.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at National Park Harz, a natural paradise in Germany perfect for every adventurer.
Dreieckiger Pfahl
3.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Dreieckiger Pfahl in the Harz Mountains – a perfect blend of nature and history for every tourist.
Oderteich
4.2 km
Immerse yourself in the tranquil landscapes of Oderteich, a highlight of Harz National Park, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
Silberbrunnen
4.6 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of Silberbrunnen in Altenau, a serene tourist attraction surrounded by nature's wonders.
Soldatenstein
4.9 km
Discover the breathtaking Soldatenstein in Wernigerode, a hiker's paradise offering stunning views and serene trails through nature's beauty.
Eckertalsperre
5.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Eckertalsperre, a stunning reservoir in the Harz Mountains, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Altes Gemäuer
5.1 km
Experience the rich history and stunning natural beauty at Altes Gemäuer, a must-visit tourist attraction in Ilsenburg, Harz.
Sendeturm Brocken
5.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Sendeturm Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany's Harz Mountains.
Brockenhaus
5.4 km
Explore Brockenhaus: A captivating visitor center on the Brocken plateau, bridging nature and culture in the heart of Harz National Park.
Kompassscheibe
5.4 km
Explore the Kompassscheibe in Wernigerode: A unique compass rose showcasing navigational history amidst enchanting scenery.
Essential places to dine
Bavaria Alm Torfhaus
0.0 km
Discover authentic Bavarian cuisine with stunning views at Bavaria Alm Torfhaus in Germany's beautiful Harz region.
Touristensaal auf dem Brocken
5.4 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views at Touristensaal auf dem Brocken atop Germany's highest peak.
Radau-Waterfall
5.7 km
Experience nature's splendor at Radau Waterfall in Bad Harzburg – a stunning cascade surrounded by lush forests and scenic trails.
Klippen - Grill Inh. Matthias Biesel
6.1 km
Discover Klippen - Grill in Altenau for an unforgettable steakhouse experience amidst breathtaking Harz landscapes.
Molkenhaus Bad Harzburg
6.4 km
Discover exquisite regional cuisine at Molkenhaus Bad Harzburg, your perfect retreat in the scenic Harz mountains.
Nationalparkgaststätte Rehberger Grabenhaus
8.2 km
Experience authentic German cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Nationalparkgaststätte Rehberger Grabenhaus in the Harz Mountains.
Waldgasthaus Rabenklippe
8.3 km
Discover culinary delights at Waldgasthaus Rabenklippe, where authentic German cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in Bad Harzburg.
Hexenritt Schirmbar
8.5 km
Experience authentic Bavarian cuisine at Hexenritt Schirmbar – where nature meets tradition in Braunlage's beautiful landscape.
Hexenritt Alm
8.5 km
Discover Hexenritt Alm: A delightful restaurant offering traditional German cuisine and stunning mountain views in Braunlage.
Tenne Schwof & Schmaus Am Blueberry Hill
9.1 km
Discover the flavors of Braunlage at Tenne Schwof & Schmaus Am Blueberry Hill—where culinary tradition meets modern dining in a stunning setting.
Café am Kurpark
9.4 km
Discover authentic German cuisine at Café am Kurpark in Wernigerode—your perfect spot for relaxation amidst beautiful park scenery.
Waldgasthaus Plessenburg
9.6 km
Experience delightful German cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Waldgasthaus Plessenburg in the Harz mountains.
Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus Braunlage
9.6 km
Discover comfort and authentic German cuisine at Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus in Braunlage - your gateway to the scenic beauty of the Harz mountains.
Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke
9.7 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor amidst scenic beauty.
Kleine Auszeit
9.7 km
Discover exquisite German cuisine at Kleine Auszeit in Braunlage – where every meal is a delightful journey through local flavors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Globetrotter Equipment GmbH
0.1 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Globetrotter Equipment GmbH in Altenau - your one-stop shop for camping, skiing, and climbing gear.
Harzturm GmbH
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and family-friendly fun at Harzturm GmbH, your destination in the heart of the Harz Mountains.
Waldschwimmbad Okerteich
5.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Waldschwimmbad Okerteich, an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by breathtaking nature, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Schierker Feuerstein Stammhaus
9.6 km
Explore the rich tradition of Schierker Feuerstein, a unique liqueur brand in the heart of the Harz Mountains, offering tours and charming accommodations.
Harzer Spezialitäten & Brotzeitstube puppe‘s
9.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of the Harz region at Puppe’s, a delightful deli and bistro in Braunlage offering local specialties and souvenirs.
Ottos Sport & Tracht
9.7 km
Discover the charm of German traditions at Ottos Sport & Tracht, your go-to destination for authentic costumes and outdoor sports gear in Braunlage.
Harzsneaks
9.8 km
Discover unique styles and local flair at Harzsneaks, the premier clothing store in Braunlage, perfect for fashion-savvy tourists.
Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten
9.8 km
Discover the authentic flavors of the Harz region at Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten, the premier butcher shop in Braunlage, Germany.
Gamaswelt Braunlage
9.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gamaswelt Braunlage, a charming gift shop in the heart of the picturesque town of Braunlage.
Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion
10.1 km
Shop sustainably at Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion, where style meets eco-consciousness in the heart of Braunlage.
Harzspots GmbH
10.1 km
Explore the Harz Mountains with Harzspots GmbH: Your premier tourist information center in Wernigerode, Germany.
KiK Braunlage
10.7 km
Discover budget-friendly fashion and home essentials at KiK Braunlage, your go-to destination for affordable shopping in a charming setting.
Outdoor-Concepts.de - Outdoor und Survival
12.3 km
Discover Outdoor-Concepts.de in Bad Harzburg, your one-stop shop for top-notch outdoor gear and expert advice for all your adventures.
Drei Annen Hohne
13.5 km
Discover the enchanting Harz Mountains from Drei Annen Hohne, a picturesque train station perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic exploration.
Harz Tourism e. V.
13.7 km
Explore the wonders of the Harz region at Goslar's Tourist Information Center, your gateway to adventures and rich cultural experiences.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Altes Backhaus
6.1 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.
Waldgaststätte zur Kamelfichte
6.6 km
Experience authentic German cuisine and a charming beer garden in the heart of Braunlage's stunning natural landscape.
Bier-Comptoir
8.4 km
Experience the heart of Bad Harzburg at Bier-Comptoir, where local beers and hearty dishes come together in a vibrant gastropub setting.
Schirmbar Hexenritt
8.5 km
Experience the charm of the mountains at Schirmbar Hexenritt, a cozy bar in Braunlage offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.
Worchs Terrasse
9.0 km
Discover Worchs Terrasse in Bad Harzburg, a charming bar offering a serene atmosphere, delightful drinks, and stunning views for an unforgettable experience.
Pension Mühlhahn
9.0 km
Discover the charm of Pension Mühlhahn, your cozy guest house in Wernigerode, offering delightful dining and breathtaking views of the Harz mountains.
Blues Pub
9.0 km
Discover the heart of Bad Harzburg's nightlife at Blues Pub, where live music meets a cozy atmosphere and refreshing drinks await.
Baude
9.1 km
Experience the best of traditional German pub culture at Baude in Bad Harzburg, where great food and local brews await.
John's Bar
9.1 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of John's Bar in Braunlage, a perfect retreat after enjoying the breathtaking Harz mountains.
Bar Milano im San Siro
9.1 km
Discover Bar Milano in Braunlage, where Italian hospitality meets vibrant nightlife with cocktails and tapas to delight every traveler.
Wieder da
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bad Harzburg at Wieder da, where great drinks, rock music, and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
Travellers Cafe Bar
9.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Travellers Cafe Bar in Braunlage, where friendly service and a cozy ambiance meet for an unforgettable night.
Kleine Kneipe
9.7 km
Experience the charm of Kleine Kneipe, a cozy bar in Bad Harzburg perfect for unwinding after exploring the beauty of the Harz Mountains.
Hirschgrund-Biergarten
9.7 km
Experience the beauty of Braunlage at Hirschgrund-Biergarten, where local brews and stunning views combine for a perfect getaway.
Hille-Bille „betreutes Trinken“
9.7 km
Discover the charm of Hille-Bille, a cozy gastropub in Braunlage, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere await tourists and locals alike.
