Landgrafenschlucht: A Breathtaking Journey Through Time and Nature
Discover the enchanting Landgrafenschlucht (Landgrave Gorge), a 2.5 km long ravine nestled in the Thuringian Forest near Eisenach. This natural wonder lies within a nature reserve, just east of the B19 highway.
Pair your exploration of the Landgrafenschlucht with a visit to the neighboring “Drachenschlucht” (Dragon Gorge). A scenic loop trail connects the two gorges via the “Hohe Sonne” summit and the famous Rennsteig hiking trail.
The gorge’s intriguing name stems from a 14th-century legend. In 1306, Friedrich the Bitten allegedly hid in the ravine with his mounted troops to plot against his father, Albrecht the Degenerate, who contested Friedrich’s inheritance while residing in the nearby Wartburg Castle.
Since 1961, the forest between Hohe Sonne and Wartburg Castle has been protected as a nature reserve. In 1977, the Landgrafenschlucht, along with the Drachenschlucht and other nearby caves, received designation as geological natural monuments.
As of 2015, the expanded 788-hectare nature reserve bears the name “Wälder mit Schluchten zwischen Wartburg und Hohe Sonne.” Within this protected area, the Landgrafenschlucht remains a pristine total reserve.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Landgrafenschlucht, where nature’s grandeur and historical intrigue intertwine in a truly captivating hiking destination.