Discover Bergen

Bergen combines a village character with a striking geological site and routes into the surrounding countryside. When planning a stay, you can choose according to your interests: Streuberg is known for its geological features, the discovery trail for exploring nature, and the Falkenstein–Oelsnitz cycling route for a ride through several towns. When looking for a hotel in Bergen, these highlights can help you choose your destination.

Village character and central area

Old farmhouses and orchards shape Bergen’s village character. The centre has a barbecue area, a volleyball court and a pond. The recreation area also offers a view of Harzberg. Bergen therefore combines a traditional village setting with specific features of a central recreation area. If you like to weigh up different aspects of a place when planning your trip, you’ll find a rural character alongside an area with leisure facilities here.

Streuberg: geological site and mineral history

Streuberg is a geological site in the centre of Bergen and a disused granite quarry featuring Bergen-type two-mica granite. The contact between granite and slate is exposed on the upper benches in the southwestern part of the quarry. The quarry is also the type locality of the uranium mineral uranocircite. Bergenite was discovered in 1956 on a spoil heap at Streuberg and named after Bergen. Streuberg can thus be understood through its rock features and two specific links to mineralogy. For those interested in geology, this part of town offers a clear thematic focus alongside the village and nature experiences.

Discovery trail and cycling route

Bergen offers an approximately 10-kilometre discovery trail for exploring the surrounding countryside. Streuberg is also a starting point for varied excursions in the Vogtland region. Another option when planning a trip is the Falkenstein–Oelsnitz cycling route, which passes through Bergen. A disused railway section was converted into this cycling route, which opened in 2011. The route runs from Falkenstein station via Bergen, Lottengrün and Altmannsgrün to Oelsnitz station.

Along the cycling route, the Neue Scheune Bergen is an attraction with an exhibition of folk art. The discovery trail and cycling route have different characteristics: the former is approximately 10 kilometres long and focuses on exploring nature; the latter connects two railway stations and passes through several towns. As the cycling route starts and ends at railway stations, you can plan to return by Vogtlandbahn. Check train connections and the condition of the route before setting off.

The Vogtland region as a wider travel destination

The wider Vogtland travel destination also offers other distinct cultural and nature-related attractions. Instrument making is a traditional craft in the Vogtland region; musical instruments have been made in the Upper Vogtland for more than 350 years. The Markneukirchen Musical Instrument Museum displays the world’s largest playable violin. These attractions also make the Vogtland region interesting for travellers who want to include cultural highlights in their plans.

For outdoor activities, the Vogtland region offers opportunities for hiking, cycling and mountain biking among forests and green hills. The Vogtland Panorama Weg is 225 kilometres long. Other regional attractions include the Royal Gardens of Bad Elster, which combine historic parkland with spa architecture of cultural and historical significance, and the Göltzsch Viaduct, one of the two largest brick bridges in the world. Green dumplings are also part of the regional cuisine; they are made from raw, grated potatoes. Regular potato tastings are held at Gündel’s Kulturstall in Reichenbach, as well as a potato market in autumn. Check current dates before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Mühlental, Mylau, Zwoschwitz, Adorf/Vogtland, Möschwitz, Oelsnitz/Vogtland, Muldenhammer, Schöneck/Vogtland.

See the main travel overview: Vogtland.