Several natural landscapes in eastern Germany are among the nominees for the 2026 Natural Wonder of the Year award. In total, the Heinz Sielmann Foundation and the German Hiking Association have selected nine areas. Two of these—the Saalfelder Feengrotten and the Alperstedter Ried moorland—are located in Thuringia, the Sielmann Foundation announced. Saxony is represented by the Zittauer Steinzoo, and Saxony-Anhalt by the Teufelsmauer in the Harz Mountains. Many of these sites are not only impressive for their extraordinary beauty but also serve as important habitats for rare animal, fungus, and plant species, the announcement stated.
In the Stone Zoo in the Zittau Mountains, rock formations resemble animals
The Stone Zoo in the Zittau Mountains in Saxony consists of bizarrely shaped sandstone rocks that resemble animals. Over millions of years, erosion and weathering created formations that are now known as the “Brooding Hen” or the “Turtle.” Three loop trails allow visitors to explore the landscape—featuring mixed forests, streams, and wet meadows—which provides a habitat for otters and peregrine falcons, among other species.
Striking rocks of the Teufelsmauer in the Harz Mountains
At the Teufelsmauer, striking sandstone cliffs stretch like a natural wall through the northern Harz foothills. “These formations, which are around 80 million years old, are among Germany’s most significant geotopes. Nutrient-poor soils and steep rocky areas provide refuges for specialized plants as well as peregrine falcons, bats, sand lizards, and smooth snakes,” the foundation stated. Well-maintained hiking trails offer sweeping views of the Harz Mountains and the Harz foothills.
