The wild gorge of the Bode River in the heart of the Harz Mountains attracts visitors with rock formations, waterfalls, and legendary viewpoints.
Bodetal is a deep, wooded valley of the Bode River in the Harz Mountains, stretching about 10 kilometers between the towns of Treseburg and Thale. This nature reserve is famous for its steep granite walls, bizarre rock formations, and roaring waterfalls. Geologically, the valley is part of the Harz fault and its formation is accompanied by numerous legends, such as those of the giantess Brunhilde and the knight Bode, after whom the river is named.
Among the most visited viewpoints are Rosstrappe, with a horse hoof print in the granite, and Hexentanzplatz (Witches' Dance Floor), offering breathtaking views into the canyon. The main hiking trails run along both banks of the river, in places via narrow footbridges and tunnels carved into the rock. Waterfall lovers will especially enjoy the Bodewasserfall and the area around the so-called Devil's Wall.
For Czech tourists, Bodetal is an ideal destination for a day hike or a longer vacation. From the Czech Republic, the easiest way to reach it is by car via Dresden and Leipzig (approx. 400 km from Prague, 4.5 hours). The starting point for hikes is typically the parking lot in Thale, from where you can comfortably walk or take a cable car to Hexentanzplatz. We recommend sturdy shoes and a raincoat; the rocks are popular with climbers in summer. The valley can be traversed in 3–4 hours, and the route can be easily combined with a visit to the historic towns of Thale or Quedlinburg.
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GPS: 51.7356, 11.0097
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Foto: Axel Hindemith · Public domain
