Stage Wernigerode - Thale

At the start of the stage, the charming national park community of Ilsenburg entices you to take a break and stroll through the picturesque Ilse Valley. Towards the east, the towers of St. Vitus, one of the oldest monasteries in central Germany, can be seen in the Drübeck district. The gardens and the monastery café provide the ideal setting for a break.
Continuing in the direction of Wernigerode, the fairytale-like Wernigerode Castle® can be seen from afar. The town hall and the half-timbered houses in the historic town center are the hallmarks of the colourful town on the Harz Mountains.
Right at the start of the stage, on the way to Blankenburg, the R1 runs through Michaelstein Abbey. The baroque castle gardens of Blankenburg (Harz), the nearby Regenstein Castle and the fascinating Devil's Wall rock formation offer many reasons for a short detour. Further on towards Thale, in the legendary Bode Valley, exciting landscapes impress once again.

Sidetrip:
Not far from Neinstedt, the Aller-Harz cycle path offers an extremely worthwhile excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Quedlinburg. High Romanesque architecture, medieval treasures, historic half-timbered houses and winding alleyways bring the town of the first German kings and emperors to life. The contrast is provided by a young art scene attracted by the fascination of the unique ambience.