The state-recognised resort town of Gernrode is situated on the northern edge of the eastern Harz Mountains in a charming hillside location at the foot of the Stubenberg and is particularly well known for its over 1000-year-old collegiate church of St. Cyriakus, which is visible from afar. Situated on the scenic route 'Romanesque Road', St. Cyriakus Church is one of the oldest churches in northern Europe and impresses with its almost unchanged building from the Ottonian period.
Equally recommendable and wonderfully combined with a stroll through the cute old town alleys is a visit to the historic town hall and the Old Elementary School. As one of the oldest Reformation schools in Germany, the cultural monument of the Old Elementary School now houses a school and town museum with a historic classroom and a large collection of minerals.
The 'Selketalbahn', one of the oldest narrow-gauge railways in the Harz Mountains and part of the traditional Harz Narrow-gauge Railways, is a special highlight for visitors. The railways, which are mainly operated by steam locomotives, have always been a special attraction for young and old. The Museum 'Selketalbahn' in Gernrode station gives visitors an insight into the history of the railway between Gernrode and Harzgerode.
At the Harz Cuckoo Clock Factory you will find the largest cuckoo clock outside of the Black Forest, which was listed in the Guinness Book of Records. You will also discover at the clock factory a giant weather station.The carving demonstrations at the Bormann Museum workshop reveal the skills required for small wooden tools and technology in the past 100 years. And in the Harz Mountains liqueur factory, visitors can look forward to a tour of the factory followed by a liqueur tasting. In addition, guided tours through the old historic town are offered every Saturday from May to October, starting at the town hall.
With its direct location on the route of the 'Selketal-Stieg', Gernrode is a well-known destination for hikers. The lido 'Osterteich' and the crystal-clear Bremer Teich natural lake are also popular destinations for hikers on the well-maintained hiking trails in Gernrode and the surrounding area, thanks to their location in the midst of beautiful deciduous and coniferous forests. With a sandy beach, sunbathing lawn and numerous leisure facilities, the two bathing lakes have a lot to offer.
