Holidays with a dog in the Harz Mountains: your perfect adventure in nature
Dogs are not only loyal companions in everyday life, but also the best travelling companions. The Harz Mountains in particular offer a unique natural backdrop in which people and dogs feel equally at home. Whether it's vast forests, crystal-clear streams or dog-friendly hiking trails - there's everything here to make the heart of any four-legged friend beat faster.
However, not every accommodation welcomes dogs and not every hiking trail is suitable for your pet's paws. To make your holiday with your dog in the Harz Mountains an unforgettable experience, we have put together the best tips, hiking trails and accommodation in this article.
Your dog-friendly home in the Harz Mountains
The perfect holiday starts with the right accommodation. Fortunately, there are a large number of hotels, holiday flats and guesthouses in the Harz Mountains that specialise in accommodation for dogs. It's not just about dogs being allowed - the best accommodation offers real amenities for your four-legged friend.
Dog-friendly accommodation often provides welcome packs with blankets, dog bowls and treats. There are also usually special areas where dogs can run free or play with other dogs. Some accommodations even offer a fenced-in dog meadow or an agility course - perfect for active pets!
One example of such accommodation is Wolfshof - Dein Zuhause im Harz. Here, dogs are not only tolerated, but warmly welcomed. In addition to lovingly furnished rooms for humans and dogs, there are numerous amenities such as a fenced-in play area, dog beds and an emergency pharmacy for four-legged friends. Accommodation like this ensures that your dog feels at least as comfortable as you do.
Highlights for a holiday with your dog in the Harz Mountains
A holiday with a dog in the Harz Mountains means much more than just walks and hikes. Numerous activities and sights are specially designed for dog owners and ensure a varied holiday experience. In addition to relaxed hikes, there are dog-friendly parks, meadows and bathing spots where your dog can let off steam to his heart's content. Many restaurants and cafés in the Harz Mountains also offer special places for guests with dogs, ensuring a relaxed dining experience. Adventure-seekers will also get their money's worth: from adventure trails to specially signposted nature trails, there is plenty for dogs and their owners to discover. The combination of unspoilt nature and dog-friendly infrastructure makes the Harz Mountains an ideal destination for people and animals.
The best hiking trails for you and your dog
The Harz Mountains are a paradise for hikers - and that also applies to dogs. But not every route is ideal for four-legged friends. We have picked out some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails for you:
Liebesbankweg in Hahnenklee
At around seven kilometres, this easy circular trail is ideal for relaxed walks with your dog. The route leads through beautiful forest landscapes and offers plenty of opportunities for a short break on the eponymous love benches along the way.
Devil's Wall Trail
An absolute highlight for active dogs is the Teufelsmauer-Stieg (Devil's Wall Trail). The trail stretches for several kilometres along impressive rock formations. Although there are some steep sections, this route is a real adventure for fit dogs.
Ilsetal hike
If you are looking for a route with plenty of watering holes for your four-legged friend, you will find it in the Ilse Valley. The trail follows the course of the River Ilse and offers dogs the opportunity to cool off in the water time and again - perfect for hot summer days.
Swimming fun: Where can dogs swim in the Harz Mountains?
Many dogs love the water - but not every body of water allows four-legged friends. Fortunately, there are some lakes and rivers where dogs can swim to their heart's content. The Oker reservoir is a particular favourite, with its shallow banks offering ideal conditions for splashing around. The Oderteich is also an excellent choice for a refreshing swim in the midst of unspoilt nature. Wildemann is also home to the Harz Dog Forest, which offers walking opportunities as well as a stream for refreshment. After bathing, you should dry your dog well to protect it from cooling down.
What should you bear in mind when holidaying with a dog?
There are a few things to bear in mind so that your holiday in the Harz Mountains with your dog remains completely relaxed. In many hiking areas, dogs must be kept on a lead to protect nature and other visitors. Also make sure you take enough water with you for your four-legged friend, especially on warm days. A bowl for travelling is also a useful addition. Find out about vets in the region in advance so that you are well prepared in an emergency. It is also particularly important to dispose of dog faeces - in many areas there are special poo bag dispensers that should be used.
Conclusion: The Harz Mountains - a paradise for dogs and their humans
The Harz Mountains are the perfect destination for dog owners who want to experience nature and adventure together with their four-legged friend. Whether it's relaxed hikes, extensive playtime or refreshing bathing spots - boredom is guaranteed to be a thing of the past here. Especially in dog-friendly accommodation such as the Wolfshof, your four-legged friend is not only tolerated, but truly welcomed. Plan your next holiday in the Harz Mountains now and enjoy unforgettable days with your faithful companion!
