The Haineck, which is probably one of the last medieval castles built in Thuringia, was erected above Nazza, around 1 km north of the village, on the tongue of a Hainich ridge, with its northern edge lying directly on the steep slope down to the Nazza valley.

It is said to have been built by Landgrave Balthasar around 1392 as a protective castle against the predatory raids of the Eichsfeld and Mühlhausen tribes. As the cornerstone of a land defense system, it secured the north-western border of the Landgraviate of Thuringia against the possessions of the Archbishops of Mainz.

From the castle tower you have a great view over the landscape. The castle is located on the Hainichland Trail and the Haineck cycle path. It is open to the public.

"KOFUKU NO NIWA" - the garden of bliss fascinates with its Far Eastern atmosphere and symbolic design. The garden contains different areas that reflect the love for the different landscapes of the Japanese islands and the seasons. Its image is characterized by typical Japanese tree and plant species, two classical pavilions and a pond landscape where colorful koi majestically float. The garden attracts visitors in spring with lush cherry blossoms, in summer with an imposing azalea landscape and in autumn with flaming red maple trees. With its bamboo grove and dry landscape, the Japanese Garden is a jewel of the total of ten gardens in Bad Langensalza.

Normannstein Castle sits majestically on a hill above the town of Treffurt in Thuringia and looks back on a long history dating back to the 9th century. Originally, a lookout post was built here to monitor the Werra valley. In the 12th century, the lords of Treffurt converted it into a castle, which is reflected in the striking square towers, the gate building and the squire's building. The Knights of Treffurt used the castle as a residence and to administer the surrounding villages on behalf of the Landgraves of Thuringia.

In the 14th century, the reputation of the Knights of Treffurt changed as they fell into disrepute due to plundering in the border region between Thuringia and Hesse. This led to a siege in 1336 and ultimately to the expulsion of the knights. Over the following centuries, the castle gradually fell into disrepair and was used as a quarry by the citizens of Treffurt.

The name "Normannstein" did not appear until much later. In 1894, Gustav Döring acquired the ruins and set up a restaurant in the chapel building, making the castle a popular destination for hikers. Between 1921 and 1933, the castle hosted major events organized by the Neudeutschland association.

Today, Normannstein Castle is an important historical monument and an attraction for tourists. The well-preserved ruins offer an impressive view over the Werra and the picturesque surrounding countryside. In the exhibition tower, visitors can explore a permanent exhibition on the history of castles in the Werra valley and immerse themselves in the past. The modern exhibition, which can be reached via almost 100 steps, offers exciting insights into everyday life in the Middle Ages, including meal plans, household remedies and unloved housemates.

The exhibition is accessible during opening hours and also outside regular hours on request or for larger groups. From the castle's viewing platform, visitors can enjoy a sweeping view over the landscape and may be able to see the "white woman" at dusk.

Normannstein Castle is also a popular venue for weddings and other special occasions, although it does not have regular opening hours. Regular events contribute to the lively character of the castle. The castle is a particularly recommended detour for cyclists planning Treffurt as a stage destination along the Werratal cycle path.

It is possible to drive up to the castle in your own car. The outdoor area is freely accessible and the inner courtyard is barrier-free.

The baroque Friedenstein Palace is the impressive testimony to the art of the newly founded Duchy of Saxony-Gotha. Duke Ernst I of Saxe-Gotha had it built. His deeply religious understanding is reflected not only in his epithet "the Pious", but also in the castle name itself. "Peace Ernehret, Unfriede Verzehret" can be read on the main portal. Today, the palace complex houses the palace museum with its art chamber, the Museum of Nature and the Historical Museum as well as the baroque Ekhof Theatre and the palace church.

It was Ernst I with the epithet "the Pious" who commissioned the construction of Friedenstein Palace. It was to replace the then already destroyed Grimmenstein Fortress. The foundation stone for the new palace was laid in the autumn of 1643, and barely three years later the duke and his family were able to move into the north wing. The entire complex was finally completed by 1656, although the initial decoration was to take another ten years. Important artists and renowned craftsmen left their mark in Gotha. They ensured that Friedenstein Palace was to be one of the most outstanding pieces of architecture of the 17th century. Hardly any other prince had a comparable residence at that time. The highly symbolic name of the palace is the subject of both the dedication inscription above the main portal and the relief cartouche above it, which shows the "Kiss of Peace". The surrounding saying reflects the understanding of the builder - " Peace Ernehret - Unfriede Verzehret".

Inside the chateau, rooms from the Baroque, Rococo, Classicism and Historicism periods have been preserved. Today it houses the castle museum, with the richly stuccoed banqueting hall and the ducal apartments, as well as the Kunstkammer, the Museum of Nature and the Historical Museum. The unique art collections can be seen in the Ducal Museum opposite. In the west tower is the Ekhof Theatre - a baroque theatre bearing the name of Conrad Ekhof (1720-1778). He was considered the "father of German drama" and the director of one of the first theatres with permanent actors. Due to its original wooden stage technology, the theatre is considered one of the most completely preserved of the 17th century and is still in use today.

Wartburg Castle, one of the most important and best-known fortresses in Thuringia, towers majestically over the town of Eisenach and offers visitors a deep insight into German history and culture. The castle was founded around 1067 by Louis the Knight and served as one of the most important residences of the Landgraves of Thuringia. It is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a symbol of historical events and personalities.

According to legend, Louis the Knight is said to have announced the founding of Wartburg Castle with the following words: "Wait! Mountain, you shall become a castle for me!"

One of the most famous episodes in the history of Wartburg Castle is its role in the life of Martin Luther. In 1521, he found refuge here and translated the New Testament into German, making a significant contribution to the spread of the Reformation. This time at Wartburg Castle marks an important turning point in Germany's religious and cultural history.

Architecturally, Wartburg Castle impresses with its well-preserved Romanesque and Gothic buildings, including the magnificent Palas and the chapel. The keep, the central fortification, offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside and the town of Eisenach.

The castle is not only a place of history, but also a center of culture. Concerts, exhibitions and events take place here regularly, reflecting the rich cultural tradition of the region. One highlight is the annual Luther Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Wartburg Castle also offers numerous leisure activities. Hiking trails lead through the idyllic nature of the Thuringian Forest and are ideal for a detour to the imposing complex. Visitors are rewarded with fantastic views from the Wartburg hill - directly in front of the drawbridge. Guided tours of the castle provide a detailed insight into its history and architecture.

Today, Wartburg Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts thousands of tourists every year. It stands as a living monument to German history and culture and is a must-see for anyone interested in Germany's past and cultural roots.

The public grounds of the castle can be visited free of charge. The inside of the castle is only accessible during guided tours or events.

Hütscheroda, known as the Wildcat Village since 2012, is located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hainich National Park - just a stone's throw from Wartburg Castle and the treetop trail.

Wildcat enclosure: The attraction is dedicated to the symbolic animal of the Hainich - the wildcat - as well as the lynx, our largest native feline predators. The shy animals can be observed up close in the show enclosure. Dogs are welcome on a lead in the wild cat village. Moderated show feedings take place daily, the times of which can be found on the website.

Wild cat barn: In the exhibition, you can learn many interesting things about the rare animals. The lynx reintroduction project and the "Wildcat Rescue Network", one of the largest nature conservation projects in Europe, are also presented here. Series of images and information films are presented in the multimedia forum. Innovative exhibition elements make the new exhibition an experience. Young visitors can play and draw in the children's corner.

The wild cat enclosure and the exhibition are suitable for baby carriages. The Wildcat Village also organizes children's birthday parties and offers individual guided tours.

The Wildcat Children's Forest - a forest adventure area southeast of Kammerforst - consists of large-scale play elements. These include various climbing mazes, a bird's nest swing, a crawling tunnel system and a three-story adventure sandbox, all of which blend impressively and harmoniously into the forest landscape. The masterfully and whimsically shaped structures are works of the company "Künstlerische Holzgestaltung Bergmann" from Zentendorf/Saxony. Each of these objects has a unique character, but the handwriting is always unmistakable. During the planning, development and construction of this playground, special emphasis was placed on the playful connection between nature, art and man. The Wildcat Children's Forest joins the range of activities in the Hainich National Park that have been developed since its founding in 1997. Especially children and adolescents should be enabled a playful contact with nature, which gradually promotes the comprehension of natural contexts.