Lonau in the Harz: Nature and Local History

Lonau lies in the southern Harz within Harz National Park, among mountain slopes, meadows, and open beech forests. You can combine different interests when choosing a destination here: natural landscapes and hiking options sit alongside a waterfall, an open-air swimming pool in the forest, and the history of St. Michaelis Church. The places and activities below offer several points of reference for planning your trip.

Nature around Lonau

Lonau Waterfall lies in a narrow rocky gorge. There, the water plunges a total of ten meters in several cascades. The gorge brings the natural experience together in one place; the Harz mountain meadows offer a different focus. Near Lonau, they are home to a unique variety of species. More than 50 plant species classified as endangered grow there.

The landscape themes also differ: at the waterfall, rocks, the gorge, and cascades shape the impression, while the diversity of plants takes center stage in the meadows. If you plan your trip around your interests in nature, these are two specific aspects of the area to consider when choosing where to stay.

Hikes and Ranger Station

The signposted “Around Lonau” trail is a short hike above the village. In addition, the rangers at Lonau Ranger Station offer public guided hikes as part of their nature experience program; groups can arrange dates. The two options differ in format: a signposted trail on the one hand and ranger-led hikes on the other. Since the program may vary, check the dates if you are planning a guided hike.

The ranger station is located in Lonau’s community center. The Lonau National Park Information Center is also there. Films for all age groups provide information about nature and the activities offered by Harz National Park. Rangers answer questions and give hiking tips. This brings together information about the national park and practical advice for planning hikes, so you do not have to visit different places for help.

St. Michaelis Church and Local History

St. Michaelis Church was built in 1883 as a solid red-brick structure, replacing the older wooden church. Its organ was made in 1884 by Gebr. Krell of Duderstadt. The two dates are just one year apart, providing a brief timeline for the construction of the church and its organ.

The materials also tell a story of change: a solid brick building replaced the older wooden church. Anyone interested in a place’s history and architecture will find a specific local connection in these details, distinct from Lonau’s nature and hiking options.

Open-Air Swimming Pool and Recreation

Lonau’s public open-air swimming pool in the forest is right next to the campground. Trees surround the pools, including a pool for children. There is also plenty of lawn for sunbathing and opportunities for play. So, in addition to swimming, the facilities include space to relax and play. If the pool is relevant to your trip planning, check the current opening hours before your visit, as they may change.

Another local recreation option is the water-treading facility in Lonau, which serves as a destination for day trips and relaxation. It adds a separate place to visit to the area’s range of nature and leisure activities. Which of these options you prioritize depends on whether you are more interested in a hike, the landscape, local history, or a day at the pool.

Current Visitor Information

The capercaillie enclosure near Lonau is currently closed for technical reasons. The special-stamp station at the enclosure remains accessible. If the stamp station is important to your visit, check the latest information before setting out. This lets you plan separately for access to the enclosure and the stamp station.

Discover more destinations: Riefensbeek-Kamschlacken, Bad Sachsa, Badenhausen, Herzberg am Harz, Pöhlde, Bad Lauterberg, Bad Grund, Osterode am Harz.

Return to the main travel overview: Osterode am Harz.