Tambach-Dietharz/Thür.Wald: Reservoir, Trails and History

Tambach-Dietharz combines striking scenic attractions with historic sites, offering a range of ways to enjoy a stay. The Old Tambach Reservoir lies right on the southern edge of the state-recognized resort town of Tambach-Dietharz, in the Apfelstädter Grund valley. When planning your trip, you can group the attractions into water and woodland, cycling and hiking trails, and history. If you are planning a hotel stay, this distinction can help you decide what to focus on: at the reservoir, the circular trail and guided tours take center stage; in town, it is church, theology and technological history.

Reservoir and Trails Through Woods and Valley

A circular trail about nine kilometers long runs along the shore of the Old Tambach Reservoir. Guided tours take place there every Sunday from May to October; group tours can be arranged by contacting the Tourist Information Office in advance. If you are planning to join a tour, check the latest information before your trip. The Tambach-Dietharz forest swimming pool is another water-related attraction in town: it is supplied daily with fresh water from the Spitter stream.

The Willi Matthias nature park trail leads from the Spittergrund valley through Tambach Forest into the Tammichgrund valley. The hiking area of Mittelwassergund is also home to the Steinerne Tor, a natural monument in Tambach-Dietharz. The human-sized Steinerne Tor is a popular destination for excursions and an impressive photo opportunity. Thus, in addition to the lakeside scenery, woodland and striking natural formations offer distinct themes for outings in the area.

In the colder months, more than 25 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails add to the range of activities. Trail availability may vary depending on snow conditions. The options therefore differ by season: the circular trail and nature trail lead through the landscape, while cross-country skiing depends on winter conditions.

Cycling, Geological History and Climbing Routes

Cycling options in Tambach-Dietharz include the Apfelstädt Cycle Route, the Rennsteig Cycle Route and mountain bike tours. The Dinosaur Adventure Trail offers another perspective on the region. It runs from Georgenthal and Tambach-Dietharz to the fossil discovery site at Bromacker. The 4.5-kilometer stretch from Georgenthal to Lohmühle passes through 100 million years of geological history. The cycle routes listed here provide guidance for bike rides, while the Dinosaur Adventure Trail combines its route with a geological theme.

The striking sandstone crag Falkenstein lies near the destination. It has more than 100 climbing routes and reaches a height of up to 96 meters. For those interested in climbing, it offers another distinct excursion theme in the vicinity of Tambach-Dietharz, alongside cycling and hiking trails.

Churches, Notable Figures and Technological History

The Luther Church was built around 1350 and rebuilt in a modified form after two major fires. Martin Luther visited the church at the end of February 1537, when he stopped in town on his way back from Schmalkalden. This site brings together architectural history and a specific moment in history.

Meister Eckhart is also associated with Tambach-Dietharz: he was born here around 1260 and had a lasting influence on Christian mysticism through his theological writings and sermons. The Technical Sawmill Museum offers a different way to explore the past. It is a preserved historic sawmill with a history dating back to 1645. The church, birthplace and sawmill therefore represent different aspects of cultural history that you can take into account when planning your stay.

A Distinctive Cultural Highlight in Gotha

The wider destination of Gotha also has a theatrical history: the Ekhof Theatre in Gotha was founded in 1775 by Duke Ernst II as the first court theater in Germany. This cultural highlight is located in Gotha and complements the history of Tambach-Dietharz with a distinct regional focus.

Discover more destinations: Großfahner, Luisenthal, Laucha, Tonna, Leinatal, Döllstädt, Aspach, Georgenthal/Thüringer Wald

Return to the overview of the wider destination: Gotha.