Thierstein’s historic center nestles against the castle hill; above the town of the same name, the ruins of the former Thierstein fortress, dating from the 14th century, stand on a basalt cone. Around this distinctive landmark, a historical walking tour, St. George’s Church, and the market square bring the town’s history to life. Those who want to explore further will also find trails in the municipality and cycling and themed destinations in the wider Wunsiedel Im Fichtelgebirge travel region.

Explore the castle hill and local history on foot

The historical walking tour leads through Thierstein, with the sights numbered on the town map. This makes it easy to combine the route with its marked points, rather than focusing your visit solely on the castle ruins. The ruins’ position above the town also makes the former fortress an unmistakable landmark in the townscape. Its origins date back to the 14th century, and it stands on a basalt cone. You can climb the keep when the entrance door is open. Access is therefore subject to this specific condition; take it into account when planning your visit.

St. George’s Church and the market square

St. George’s Church also tells a story of upheaval and rebuilding in Thierstein. The present-day Evangelical Lutheran church was elevated to parish church status in 1558. Fires destroyed it in 1667 and 1725; after a fire on April 20, 1945, it burned down completely. It was rededicated in 1949. This sequence of events gives the church a significant place in the town’s history, without requiring a long walk.

The redesigned market square is home to the Sechsämter Fountain, with lime trees providing shade. Together with the historic center nestled against the castle hill, the square offers a second landmark for getting your bearings. A walk through Thierstein can therefore combine the fortress’s history with a glimpse of today’s town center.

Trails and activities in the municipality

The signposted Hammerrunde trail runs along the Eger and around Kaiserhammer, Schwarzenhammer, and Stabhammer in the municipality. Information panels along the route feature QR codes that let you listen to specially designed audio recordings. The signs and audio recordings pair the circular trail with additional information about its route. This gives the Hammerrunde a different focus from the historical walking tour through the town.

Fishing is possible year-round at the municipal pond in Thierstein, provided closed seasons and minimum size limits are observed. Fishing is not permitted when the pond is frozen over. Check in advance which permits are currently required. This way, both the fishing regulations and the condition of the pond can be taken into account when planning your visit.

Cycling and themed destinations in the wider travel region

In the wider Wunsiedel Im Fichtelgebirge travel region, the Eger Cycle Route extends beyond Thierstein. The Bavarian section is around 55 kilometers long and follows the Eger through Bad Weißenstadt, Röslau, Marktleuthen, Thierstein, Selb, Hohenberg a.d.E., and Schirnding. On the Czech side, the route continues via Pomezí nad Ohří and Cheb, where it connects to Czech long-distance cycle route No. 6 / Cyklostezka Ohře. Before setting out on a specific tour, check local route information for temporary closures or detours.

Other themed destinations in the wider Wunsiedel Im Fichtelgebirge travel region include the “Kleiner Johannes” Old Mine in Arzberg, dedicated to mining and geology, and the Häuselloh demonstration quarry in Selb. The quarry focuses on granite extraction and processing; guided tours are available on request. Ask the operator about dates and arrangements, as the operating months and tour arrangements may change.

Discover more destinations: Schönwald, Thiersheim, Nagel, Kirchenlamitz, Marktleuthen, Schirnding, Tröstau, Röslau.

View the wider travel overview: Wunsiedel Im Fichtelgebirge.