Discover Wanfried: the Schlagd, town history and the Werra

Wanfried combines a long history of trade and shipping with opportunities for trips on the Werra and cycling. The Schlagd and guided town walks offer insights into the town’s history; cycling routes and the landing stage provide further options for planning your day. As you prepare for your stay, you can decide whether town history, a stretch on the water or a cycling tour should take priority—and then look for hotels in Wanfried.

The Schlagd and architectural history

The Schlagd in Wanfried was a former transshipment point for shipping on the Weser and Werra. The two Großen Schlagdhäuser, built in 1670, and the adjoining small warehouses are reminders of the town’s former port history.

On town walks, experienced guides from the Wanfried Guild of Tour Guides accompany visitors. Historical figures bring the history of this 1,000-year-old trading and port town to life. Check booking requirements and availability in advance.

Wanfried’s Protestant church is a Neo-Gothic sandstone building, constructed at the end of the 19th century to designs by Hermann Rüppel. Keudell Castle in Wanfried is a large manor house.

Exploring the Werra and cycling

Those paddling north along the Werra can choose Wanfried as their starting point; on a stopover, water-tourers can use the landing stage at the Schlagd. Check its conditions before setting off.

You can also reach Wanfried by bike via the Werra Valley Cycle Path or the Iron Curtain Trail, which the town refers to as EuroVelo Route 13. Up to six women’s and men’s bicycles and one electric bicycle are available to rent for tours in and around Wanfried. Confirm availability before you travel.

Hiking destination and getting there

The Plesse Tower is one of Wanfried’s most beautiful hiking destinations. East of Wanfried, a route totaling 9 km leads through the 198-hectare Plesse-Konstein Nature Reserve.

Regular bus services connect the Stadtbahnhof in Eschwege with the Bahnhofstraße stop in Wanfried. Check the current NVV timetables for your specific journey.

The regional setting in the Werra-Meißner district

In tourism terms, the Werra-Meißner district is part of the Geo-Nature Park Frau-Holle-Land. The region between the Werra Valley, Hoher Meißner and Kaufunger Wald features geological diversity, varied landscapes and a rich range of flora and fauna. More than 35 percent of the district’s area is designated as nature conservation land. Hoher Meißner is the region’s highest mountain and is said to be the home of Frau Holle. Across the Geo-Nature Park, seasonal landscapes range from cherry blossom in Kirschenland Witzenhausen and orchid blooms to pink poppy fields in Germerode and Grandenborn, followed by autumn foliage and winter sports on Hoher Meißner. Bloom times vary from year to year.

Discover more destinations: Datterode, Herleshausen, Großalmerode, Berkatal, Hessisch Lichtenau, Neu-Eichenberg, Sontra, Waldkappel.

Go to the regional travel overview: Werra-Meißner district.