Thüringer Wald

The Thuringian Forest is one of Germany's most dog-friendly mountain regions. With more than 200 kilometres of marked hiking trails — including the famous Rennsteig — you can explore dense forests, open ridgelines and quiet reservoirs with your dog. Most trails have no mandatory leash requirements, and the region's low tourist numbers make for relaxed, peaceful walks. The centrepiece is the Rennsteig, a historic ridge path running 169 kilometres from Hörschel near Eisenach to Blankenstein. Around the town of Oberhof, Schmiedefeld and the small village of Gehlberg you will find varied day hikes ranging from 5 to 20 kilometres. The Schneekopf (978 m), Thuringia's second-highest peak, can be reached directly from Gehlberg — a perfect half-day hike with your dog. In winter, Oberhof becomes a cross-country skiing hub with most groomed trails welcoming dogs.