Lonau lies in Harz National Park in the southern Harz, among mountain slopes, meadows and open beech forests. The village offers several points of interest to help you plan your trip: you can explore the landscape and go hiking, visit the ranger station or learn more about the village church. There are also places to visit such as the waterfall and the woodland swimming pool. Which of these aspects makes Lonau especially appealing to you depends on whether you prefer to spend your time outdoors, learning about nature or exploring a piece of local history.
Waterfall and Mountain Meadows in the Harz
The Lonau Waterfall lies in a narrow rocky gorge. There, the water plunges a total of ten metres over several cascades. The gorge is a striking natural attraction in a village whose surroundings are characterised by slopes, meadows and open beech forests. If you are interested in streams and rock formations, the waterfall is a specific place to visit; the mountain meadows, by contrast, are notable for their distinctive variety of plant life.
More than 50 plant species classified as endangered grow in the typical Harz mountain meadows near Lonau. The meadows are distinguished by their unique biodiversity. This offers a different perspective on the landscape from the cascades in the rocky gorge: here, the focus is on plant diversity, while there it is on the shape of the waterfall. The Kneipp water-treading facility in Lonau is also a place to visit and relax.
Hiking and Nature Information
The signposted “Around Lonau” trail is a short hike above the village. You can also ask for hiking advice at the Lonau Ranger Station. It is located in the village community centre, which also houses the Lonau National Park Information Centre. Films for all age groups provide information about nature and the services offered by Harz National Park. Rangers answer questions and offer hiking tips.
As part of the nature experience programme, the rangers offer guided walks open to everyone. Group visits are arranged by appointment, and the programme may vary. The options therefore differ: the signposted trail is a short hike, while an open walk takes you out with the rangers. If you are planning a visit with a group, you can arrange a date. Check the current programme before your trip.
Woodland Swimming Pool and Seasonal Opening Times
The public Lonau Woodland Swimming Pool is right next to the campsite. The pools are surrounded by trees, and facilities include a children’s pool, a sunbathing lawn and play areas. The swimming pool is another option for a stay in Lonau, alongside the natural attractions and hiking activities. Opening times are seasonal: the stated season runs from 15 May to 15 September, with daily hours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Check the schedule before your visit rather than making the swimming pool a firm part of your plans.
The capercaillie enclosure near Lonau is currently closed for technical reasons. The special stamp station at the enclosure remains accessible. If you want to visit the stamp station, note the distinction: access to the special stamp station is possible, but the enclosure itself remains closed.
Church History in the Village
St. Michaelis Church was built as a solid structure from red brick in 1883, replacing an older wooden church. The organ was built the following year, in 1884, by Gebr. Krell of Duderstadt. The two dates mark different parts of the church’s history: 1883 for the construction of the new church, and 1884 for its organ. Those interested in architecture and historical details will find another aspect of the village here, distinct from its natural attractions and ranger activities.
You can consider which of these options best suits your trip before looking for a hotel in Lonau.
Discover more destinations: Bad Sachsa, Pöhlde, Bad Grund, Riefensbeek-Kamschlacken, Wulften am Harz, Herzberg Am Harz, Badenhausen, Bad Lauterberg.
Go to the overview of the wider area: Osterode Am Harz.
