The Harzer Teufelsmauerstieg runs along perhaps the most impressive rock formations in the Harz Mountains and captivates hikers and nature lovers alike. It stretches for around 20 kilometers from Blankenburg to Ballenstedt and offers spectacular views with its jagged sandstone formations. This unique natural monument is one of the oldest nature reserves in Germany and is of great importance not only geologically, but also historically and steeped in legend. Those who embark on a hike along the Devil’s Wall are immersed in a world of impressive rocks, breathtaking panoramas and exciting myths.
The trail along the Devil’s Wall has many highlights in store. The starting point is the Grandfather Rock, which together with the Grandmother Rock forms the western end of the Devil’s Wall. It is well worth the climb, as the view from the top is breathtaking. Hikers should note that the stamp point is a little further down.
From there, continue along the narrow and challenging ridge path, also known as the Löbbeckestieg. This was created by Carl Löbbecke in 1853 and requires surefootedness. The path leads towards Hamburger Wappen and Timmenrode. On the way, you pass the thunderstorm grotto and the impressive foxhole. A spiral staircase leads down to a small shelter with a bench. This shelter was built in 1932 by unemployed people to provide hikers with a safe place to rest.
Only a short climb separates hikers from the Hamburg coat of arms, a striking rock formation. There is another stamping point here. The route then continues towards Weddersleben.
Die Gewittergrotte
Eingang Fuchsbau
Der Fuchsbau von Innen
The Weddersleben Devil’s Wall as a nature reserve
The Devil’s Wall has been officially designated as a nature reserve since 1935. But as early as 1833, Prussian district administrator Carl Weyhe campaigned for its preservation and banned the breaking of the stones. Incidentally, it is particularly beautiful here during the cherry blossom season.
From Neinstedt to Ballenstedt
The rest of the hiking trail leads through Neinstedt past the Marienhof farm, which has a café and farm store where you can take a break. The trail then follows the R1 European Cycle Route and the Harz Monastery Hiking Trail, passing Bad Suderode, Gernrode and Rieder.
The Gegensteine – the eastern end of the Harzer Teufelsmauerstieg
The last striking rock formations of the Devil’s Wall are the Gegensteine near Ballenstedt. They are known for their impressive views and special acoustics.
The legends of the Devil’s Wall
The legend of the Devil’s Wall
According to an old legend, the devil wanted to divide the world fairly with the Lord God. As a condition, however, he had to build a border wall within one night, which could not be built beyond the first cockcrow. A farmer’s wife, who was out with her rooster before sunrise, was startled when she saw the devil. Her rooster crowed in fright, the devil thought the night was over and destroyed the almost completed wall in a rage.
The legend of the Gegensteine
According to legend, a farmer discovered a cave with a treasure guarded by a black dog. When he cursed the animal, the treasure disappeared into the rock along with a demonic creature. Since then, it has haunted the cave and bewitched hikers. Here I have found different versions of the legend which I will link to you.
Pictures from the hike along the Harzer Teufelsmauerstieg
Shorter hikes along the Devil’s Wall
Would you prefer to walk a few shorter stages along the Devil’s Wall and avoid the less exciting sections? No problem, my girlfriend and I have also done one or two hikes along the Devil’s Wall before and you can find the best ones here:
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