Hiking through history on idyllic paths: The first stage of the Harz Monastery Trail leads from Goslar to Wöltingerode and combines enjoyment of nature with cultural discoveries. With a length of around 14 kilometers and a difference in altitude of around 150 meters, it is suitable for both experienced hikers and beginners. If you have never been to Goslar before, you should plan a few extra kilometers to explore the region through the narrow streets of the old town. Particularly worth seeing are the historic market square with its carillon, the imperial palace and the mining museum at Rammelsberg.
The highlights of this Section
Die Neuwerkkiche Goslarwurde vom kaiserlichen Vogt Volkmar und seiner Frau Helena gestiftet und im Jahr 1186 geweiht. Sie war Teil eines Zisterzienserinnenklosters, das bis zur Reformation bestand. Montag – Freitag von 10.00 – 16.30 Uhr. Der Eintritt ist frei. 
Das Kloster Grauhof ist ein ehemaliges Augustiner-Chorherrenstift in Goslar am Harz. Es wurde im 12. Jahrhundert gegründet und im 18. Jahrhundert säkularisiert. Die Klosterkirche St. Georg ist heute eine katholische Pfarrkirche. 
Das Kloster Wöltingerode ist eine ehemalige Benediktinerabtei in Wöltingerode, einem Stadtteil von Goslar im Harz. Es wurde im 12. Jahrhundert gegründet und im 16. Jahrhundert säkularisiert. Die Klosterkirche St. Johannes Baptist ist heute eine evangelische Pfarrkirche.
Route Section 1 Harzer Klosterwanderweg
Start in Goslar: The hike begins at the Romanesque Neuwerkkirche from the 12th century, an impressive example of Goslar architecture.
Grauhof Monastery and idyllic nature: passing the Goslar pond, the trail leads out of the city and guides hikers along green spaces towards Grauhof Monastery. The former Cistercian monastery, whose foundation dates back to 1225, invites you to take a break with its idyllic location and cloister, which is well worth seeing.
On a disused railroad line and through the forest: The route continues on a disused railroad line that leads through the rolling hills of the Harz Mountains. In the midst of fields and meadows, where the first spring flowers bloom in spring (March 2024), hikers can enjoy the tranquillity and nature.
Tranquil village of Immenrode: The trail leads through the tranquil village of Immenrode, whose half-timbered houses and idyllic village church offer an insight into life in the Harz Mountains.
Through the forest to Wöltingerode Monastery: An idyllic forest path, adorned with fresh greenery in spring, leads to the destination of this stage, Wöltingerode Monastery. Founded in the 12th century, the monastery is now home to a hotel and a farm store. If you want to leave after the stage, you can take a short detour to Vienenburg (approx. 4 km) to catch the train. For those who wish to continue their hike, the Harz Monastery Trail continues to Ilsenburg and Wernigerode.
