A Land of Legends and Natural Beauty
Located in the heart of Germany, the Geo-Nature Park Frau Holle Country unfolds across a picturesque landscape of mountains and valleys. The 300-kilometre-long River Werra winds through the region, passing charming towns and villages renowned for their half-timbered architecture and welcoming atmosphere.
In spring, visitors are enchanted by a sea of cherry blossoms from around 150,000 trees. Summer brings brilliant yellow rapeseed fields that appear almost painted when viewed from the region’s scenic viewpoints. A dream in pink awaits in Germerode and Grandenborn, where 29 hectares of flowering poppies create a spectacular display. Autumn transforms the forests and meadows into a vibrant palette of gold, orange, brown and red, while winter often blankets the landscape around the Hoher Meißner—Frau Holle’s legendary mountain—with snow and ice, creating a magical winter wonderland.
Frau Holle Country for Fairy-Tale Enthusiasts
In the Geo-Nature Park, visitors can follow in the footsteps of Mother Hulda, whose presence is particularly associated with Hoher Meißner, the highest mountain in northern Hesse. Traces of her legend can also be found in Bad Sooden-Allendorf, Eschwege, Hessisch Lichtenau and Witzenhausen.
No fewer than ten legendary sites on Hoher Meißner are linked to Mother Hulda. Perhaps the most impressive is the Mother Hulda Pond near the Schwalbenthal viewpoint. This idyllic pond, beside which stands a wooden sculpture more than three metres high, is believed to be the entrance to Mother Hulda’s underground realm. According to local legend, those who visit at the right moment, when the wind is favourable and fortune smiles upon them, may even hear Mother Hulda singing across the water.
The premium hiking trail P1 Hoher Meißner leads visitors to many other sites connected with the legend, including the Kitzkammer, a striking rock formation of five- and six-sided basalt columns surrounding a large cavern. Folklore tells that Mother Hulda transformed quarrelsome girls into cats and imprisoned them here.
During the annual Fairy Tale Week in Bad Sooden-Allendorf, visitors of all ages can enjoy a colourful programme of events and a festive parade, where Mother Hulda can be seen shaking out her pillows from Easter onwards. In Eschwege, fairy-tale-themed city tours accompanied by cinnamon waffles offer a unique experience, while guided walks on Hoher Meißner immerse visitors in the magical world of legends and folklore.
Frau Holle Country for Holidaymakers and Day Visitors
The region’s 27 certified premium hiking trails showcase a diverse landscape of breathtaking viewpoints, dramatic cliffs and boulder fields, gentle river valleys, dense forests and tranquil lakes. Many areas have retained their unspoilt and peaceful character, making them ideal for nature lovers.
The Green Belt, which follows the former inner-German border, is particularly fascinating for its unique combination of history and biodiversity. Visitors encounter rare orchids, discover castle ruins and stately homes, and climb observation towers offering panoramic views across the countryside.
Colourful half-timbered towns and villages invite visitors to sample regional culinary specialities, while unusual museums and attractions ensure there is never a dull moment. Highlights include the Gustav Mine Visitor Centre, the Schifflersgrund Border Museum and the Salt Museum. Families and outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy attractions such as the Meißner Wildlife Park, the Barefoot Trail at Jugenddorf, the Leuchtberg Climbing Park and the Ziegenhagen Adventure Park.
Whether you are seeking fairy-tale magic, outdoor adventure, cultural discoveries or pure relaxation, Frau Holle Country offers unforgettable experiences in every season.
