Hesserode offers several reasons to explore: the history of St. Viti Church, trails in the area and the Forest Stage. The NĂĽxeier Weg is a way to explore the surroundings on foot or by bike. There is also the yodeling contest at the Forest Stage, which, according to the city, takes place on the first Sunday in June each year. Whether you focus on local history, outdoor activities or an event date can shape your plans.
Explore the NĂĽxeier Weg
The NĂĽxeier Weg takes you on foot or by bike to places including Niedersalza, Salza and Herreden. This extends your exploration beyond local history to the area around Hesserode. The trail is a practical choice for anyone who does not want to spend all their time on historical topics. You can discover the surroundings on foot or by bike; you can decide for yourself which option best suits your plans. If you are planning a specific trip, it is advisable to check current trail conditions before setting out.
St. Viti: History and features
The history of St. Viti includes several clearly distinct milestones. In 1252, Count Heinrich II of Honstein transferred the right of patronage over the church to Ilfeld Monastery. In 1333, its foundation received confirmation from the Archbishop of Mainz. The previous building was struck by lightning in 1733 and completely burned down; the church was rebuilt in 1736. The earlier dates therefore refer to different events than the rebuilding after the fire.
A pulpit altar dominates the chancel. It is made of wood and decorated with twisted columns and carvings. Alongside its historical dates, St. Viti’s distinctive features therefore include specific architectural and craft details. Two hand-rung bells hang in the tower. One was donated by the Nebelung family in 1964. If this detail matters to your trip, check in advance whether the bells are still there.
The Forest Stage and the yodeling contest
Hesserode is home to the city of Nordhausen’s only Forest Stage. According to the city, participants and visitors from across the region come together for the yodeling contest at the Forest Stage. It is held every year on the first Sunday in June. This may factor into your choice of travel dates if you would like to attend the contest. Check current event information before planning your trip around this date. The Forest Stage offers a distinct attraction alongside the church and trails.
Getting there by bus
Hesserode is connected to local public transport by bus routes 25, 26, 261 and 262. The route numbers provide a starting point for planning your bus journey. Check the latest timetables before travelling, as routes and services may change.
Museums in the wider destination of Nordhausen
Nordhausen, the wider destination, also offers cultural attractions of its own. FLOHBURG | Das Nordhausen Museum presents Nordhausen’s history across three floors, from its beginnings to the present day. Guided tours are available by appointment; check the current options when planning your visit.
The Tobacco Warehouse in Nordhausen features more than 1,000 m² of exhibitions on crafts, trade, industry and archaeology. Special experience areas cover telecommunications technologies from different centuries; old projection equipment can also be viewed in a cinema room. The two museums therefore differ in their focus: FLOHBURG is devoted to Nordhausen’s history, while the Tobacco Warehouse combines several subject areas with technical exhibits. Schnapps and chewing tobacco are also available for tasting there. Check in advance whether this is available when you plan to visit.
Discover more destinations: Hainleite, SĂĽlzhayn, Hamma, Werther, Nordhausen, Rodishain, Bleicherode, Neustadt/Harz.
Back to the wider travel overview: Nordhausen.
