Benneckenstein, a district of Stadt Oberharz am Brocken, is located on a plateau in the centre of the Harz Mountains - spared from the noise of large roads, close to Mount Brocken and surrounded by flowering mountain meadows and beautiful spruce forests. A widely ramified network of walking paths invites hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers to enjoy the beautiful, unspoilt nature of the Harz Mountains and a magnificent view over wide meadows on a hike or a leisurely stroll.
Among the sights of Benneckenstein are the station museum, which gives railway enthusiasts an insight into the history of the Harz narrow-gauge railways inaugurated in 1899, and the local history museum with its exhibition on cultural history, customs, tradition and old crafts. The extensive exhibition of the East German Vehicle Museum displays a wide collection of GDR vehicles toys and everday objects. Also, the steam locomotive of the Harz narrow-gauge railways stops in Benneckenstein on its way to Mount Brocken.
Also worth seeing are the St. Laurentius Church, built in 1852, the Werckmeister House, the oldest house in the village and home of the famous organist and music theorist Andreas Werckmeister, and the "Freiheit", a historically interesting and well-preserved half-timbered building.
Leisure fun activities for every generation can be found in the ‘Freizeitlandhalle‘ of the Harzhaus hotel with tennis and badminton indoor courts, bowling alley, sauna and fitness area, and outdoor tennis court.
One of the event highlights in winter is the sled dog race in Benneckenstein that has been held every year since 1991. The international race of purebred sled dogs, the huskies, is now one of the biggest in the Harz region. Benneckenstein also offers access to an extensive network of cross-country ski trails and hiking trails in the beautiful snow-covered landscape. You can find more information about winter sports in Benneckenstein on our winter sports website.
