Teufelskanzel: A Legendary Vista in the Harz Mountains
Discover the mystical Teufelskanzel in the Harz Mountains: a legendary rock formation steeped in folklore, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into German history.
Teufelskanzel, or Devil's Pulpit, is a striking rock formation near the summit of Brocken, the highest peak in the Harz Mountains. Steeped in local folklore and associated with Walpurgis Night celebrations, this granite outcrop offers panoramic views of the surrounding Harz National Park. Though access to the formation itself is restricted for conservation, it remains a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The Teufelskanzel, along with the nearby Hexenaltar (Witches' Altar), evokes the mystical atmosphere of the Brocken, a place long linked to legends of witches and devils. Its unique geological features and historical significance make it a must-see landmark for those exploring the Harz region, offering a glimpse into the area's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether you're drawn by the folklore, the stunning scenery, or the challenge of the hike, the Teufelskanzel provides a memorable experience.
A brief summary to Teufelskanzel
- Wernigerode, DE
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before hiking to the Brocken, as conditions can change rapidly. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes.
- Consider taking the Brockenbahn, a historic steam train, for a scenic and comfortable ride to the summit.
- Visit the Brockenhaus museum to learn about the history, folklore, and natural environment of the Brocken.
- Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Harz National Park.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season and on Walpurgis Night.
Getting There
-
Walking
The Teufelskanzel is located near the summit of the Brocken. From the Brocken railway station or the Brockenhaus, follow the marked circular path ('Gipfelrundweg') around the summit plateau. The Teufelskanzel is visible from several points along this path, though access to the formation itself is restricted. The walk around the summit is approximately 1.5 km and takes about 1 hour. No costs are associated with walking the path.
-
Public Transport
To reach the Brocken summit and then walk to the Teufelskanzel area, take the Harzer Schmalspurbahnen (HSB) steam train from Wernigerode (or other towns along the route like Drei Annen Hohne or Schierke) to the Brocken station. From the station, follow the 'Gipfelrundweg' as described above. A one-way ticket from Wernigerode to Brocken costs €34 for adults and €20.50 for children (6-14 years). A return ticket costs €51 for adults and €30.50 for children. Check the HSB website for current timetables and fares.
-
Driving
Private vehicles are not allowed to drive directly to the Brocken summit. The closest you can drive is to park in Schierke, Torfhaus, or other nearby towns with access to hiking trails. From Schierke, you can hike to the Brocken summit (approximately 2.5 hours). Parking in Schierke costs approximately €5 per day. Alternatively, horse-drawn carriages are available from Schierke to transport tourists closer to the summit, but these are not recommended as a final approach due to animal welfare concerns. From the summit, follow the 'Gipfelrundweg' as described above.
Discover more about Teufelskanzel
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
2.0 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
3.0 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
4.3 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
5.4 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)
5.6 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
5.7 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
6.6 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
6.8 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
7.6 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
7.8 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
Brocken Garden
0.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Brocken Garden, a tranquil botanical haven amidst the stunning landscapes of Harz National Park.
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.
Sendeturm Brocken
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Sendeturm Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany's Harz Mountains.
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.
Soldatenstein
1.8 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
3.1 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
3.8 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
3.8 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Ferdinandsstein in the Harz mountains, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers.
Böser Hund
4.0 km
Explore Böser Hund, a serene tourist attraction in Germany offering stunning landscapes and a peaceful escape into nature's beauty.
Altes Gemäuer
4.0 km
Experience the rich history and stunning natural beauty at Altes Gemäuer, a must-visit tourist attraction in Ilsenburg, Harz.
Luchs Denkmal Torfhausmoor
4.1 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.
Essential places to dine
Touristensaal auf dem Brocken
0.3 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views at Touristensaal auf dem Brocken atop Germany's highest peak.
Café am Kurpark
4.7 km
Discover authentic German cuisine at Café am Kurpark in Wernigerode—your perfect spot for relaxation amidst beautiful park scenery.
Gasthaus Zur Klippe Schierke
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.
Waldgasthaus Plessenburg
5.2 km
Experience delightful German cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Waldgasthaus Plessenburg in the Harz mountains.
Hexenritt Schirmbar
5.2 km
Experience authentic Bavarian cuisine at Hexenritt Schirmbar – where nature meets tradition in Braunlage's beautiful landscape.
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 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.
Bavaria Alm Torfhaus
5.5 km
Discover authentic Bavarian cuisine with stunning views at Bavaria Alm Torfhaus in Germany's beautiful Harz region.
Restaurant Luis
5.5 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine in the heart of Schierke at Restaurant Luis - where every meal tells a story.
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
7.1 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
7.5 km
Discover culinary delights at Waldgasthaus Rabenklippe, where authentic German cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in Bad Harzburg.
Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus Braunlage
7.6 km
Discover comfort and authentic German cuisine at Harz Hotel Altes Forsthaus in Braunlage - your gateway to the scenic beauty of the Harz mountains.
DasVielleicht
7.7 km
Discover culinary excellence at DasVielleicht in Braunlage, where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality in a charming setting.
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
5.5 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Globetrotter Equipment GmbH in Altenau - your one-stop shop for camping, skiing, and climbing gear.
Harzturm GmbH
5.5 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
7.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of the Harz region at Puppe’s, a delightful deli and bistro in Braunlage offering local specialties and souvenirs.
Harzsneaks
7.8 km
Discover unique styles and local flair at Harzsneaks, the premier clothing store in Braunlage, perfect for fashion-savvy tourists.
Ottos Sport & Tracht
7.8 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
7.9 km
Discover the authentic flavors of the Harz region at Sühl´s Harzspezialitäten, the premier butcher shop in Braunlage, Germany.
Gamaswelt Braunlage
8.0 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
8.1 km
Shop sustainably at Eckartsberg Fair & Organic Fashion, where style meets eco-consciousness in the heart of Braunlage.
Drei Annen Hohne
8.2 km
Discover the enchanting Harz Mountains from Drei Annen Hohne, a picturesque train station perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic exploration.
KiK Braunlage
8.7 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
11.3 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
11.3 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
4.3 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
5.2 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
6.2 km
Experience authentic German cuisine and a charming beer garden in the heart of Braunlage's stunning natural landscape.
Bar Milano im San Siro
7.2 km
Discover Bar Milano in Braunlage, where Italian hospitality meets vibrant nightlife with cocktails and tapas to delight every traveler.
Travellers Cafe Bar
7.2 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
7.4 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
7.7 km
Discover Braunlage's Memory Hotel & Restaurant, where comfort meets delightful dining and a vibrant bar experience amidst breathtaking nature.
Hirschgrund-Biergarten
7.7 km
Experience the beauty of Braunlage at Hirschgrund-Biergarten, where local brews and stunning views combine for a perfect getaway.
Hille-Bille „betreutes Trinken“
7.7 km
Discover the charm of Hille-Bille, a cozy gastropub in Braunlage, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere await tourists and locals alike.
Hotel Wagner - Die Kleine Zauberwelt
7.8 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
7.9 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
7.9 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
8.0 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Drink'A'Bell Pub und Café, where live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks unite in Braunlage.
BegebaR
8.1 km
Discover the inviting atmosphere of BegebaR, a must-visit bar in Braunlage offering local brews, cozy vibes, and vibrant community interactions.
Kneipchen
8.5 km
Experience the charm of Kneipchen, a cozy pub in Ilsenburg, offering local brews and hearty meals for a delightful evening.
