Thuringian Slate Mountains/Upper Saale River Nature Park

Small towns and villages dotted with blue slate houses and visitor mines are testament to the local mining tradition. Several themed routes and guided hikes allow visitors to explore the nature park with its dense wooded areas and mountains reaching heights of almost 800 metres. Some are even lucky enough to spot a rare dipper and other wildlife along the way. The "Thuringian Sea" boasting huge reservoirs in the Saale Valley is a popular destination for active holidaymakers and day-trippers, whilst the "Land of a Thousand Ponds" provides a resting point for migratory birds and a habitat for many species of aquatic birds, fish and other creatures.