Lake Ebertswiese was formed by quarrying and lies between rock faces up to 30 metres high. Several varieties of wild orchids and globeflowers grow on Ebertswiese, a mountain meadow. The Spitter also rises there. Further downstream, it forms Thuringia’s highest natural waterfall, at 19 metres. The landscape brings together striking rocks, water and distinctive plant life.
Hiking among forests, mountain meadows and geological features
The Luther Trail passes through Floh-Seligenthal and offers lovely views of the municipality along stretches of dense forest. If you’re looking for a circular route with specific distance information, the moderately difficult Höhnberg Loop is 14.3 kilometres long, takes around three hours and includes 286 metres of ascent. Following historic trails, it runs through spruce and mixed forests to the mountain ridge, follows part of the Rennsteig there, and crosses mountain meadows and valleys.
Another route with a specified distance is the 11-kilometre Great Haderholz Route. It runs between Seligenthal and Kleinschmalkalden, passing geological features and viewpoints around Haderholzstein. The Kleinschmalkalden Volcano Trail focuses on the region’s volcanism and is described as family-friendly. Along the two Geopark routes, stone parks invite you to explore different types of local rock using interactive features. Certified Geopark guides lead tours in Floh-Seligenthal and answer questions about geology, flora and fauna. Check the booking details before your trip.
Cycling routes and sporting alternatives
The Mommelstein Cycle Path connects the long-distance cycle routes of the Rennsteig and Werra Valley. Its paved route goes through a lit tunnel, over the viaduct before Kleinschmalkalden, and through a 170-metre-long railway cutting to the former Auwallenburg stop. The station at the end of the described route is a former stop. Mountain bikers will also find a challenging trail in Floh-Seligenthal that leads directly to the Rennsteig. Check the route and conditions before setting out.
Swimming and seasonal outings
If you’d like to go swimming during your stay, there are two different facilities in the municipality to choose from. The solar-heated outdoor pool on the edge of Struth-Helmershof has pools for swimmers and non-swimmers, a waterslide and a children’s paddling pool. Kleinschmalkalden Forest Pool offers around 1,250 square metres of water and 50-metre lanes. Both pools operate seasonally; check the season and current opening status before visiting.
Lake Ebertswiese also gives an outing a different focus from the hiking and cycling routes: it combines its origins as a quarry with a setting between high rock faces. The adjacent mountain meadow adds another aspect of the landscape. You can consider these features as separate destinations when planning your trip, without linking them to a specific tour.
Traditions and events in the districts
The Bergseefest at Lake Ebertswiese takes place every year one week after the summer solstice. Its recurring programme includes music by local music associations and choirs, as well as a programme organised by local clubs. The districts’ Kirmes fairs take place every year from August to September; traditional highlights include dances and festive processions. During carnival season, there are seven carnival evenings in Struth-Helmershof and Floh, as well as a large procession through Floh every year. Check event dates when planning your trip.
At the Trachtenstube in the district of Schnellbach, visitors can learn about traditional customs, traditions and the way of life of the local population. It complements the recurring festivals with an insight into local traditions. If you’d like to combine culture and nature, you can plan them as separate highlights of your stay.
Getting here and finding your way around
Floh-Seligenthal is accessible by bus, and train travel can also be part of your journey. The tourist information centre provides local and event information, bus timetables, and hiking and cycling maps. Check current connections and timetables before travelling; the maps can help you choose a hiking or cycling route. Depending on your interests, the Geopark trails, cycling routes, a seasonal visit to a swimming pool or local events can each form a different part of your trip.
When searching for hotels in Floh-Seligenthal, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on: hiking and geology, cycling, swimming or events. This lets you plan your days out around your interests and then look for accommodation for your stay.
Discover more destinations: Birx, Kleinschmalkalden, Rhönblick, Oberschönau, Walldorf, Frankenheim/Rhön, Unterschönau, Altersbach.
Go to the main travel overview: Schmalkalden-Meiningen.
