Harly geological trail

Located on the northern edge of the Classical Square Mile of Geology, this mountain range is at least as remarkable as the Salzgitter mountain range. The narrow saddle of the Harly, formed by salt tectonics, runs parallel to the Harz. In the western part, a sequence from the Lower Buntsandstein to the Upper Muschelkalk is exposed due to the rise of the salt and the associated uplift.

Rogenstein was quarried in the Harly until the 1930s. This special sandstone can be recognised by its peculiar structure: small spheres are reminiscent of fish spawn (roe). The varied flora and fauna is a reflection of the geological diversity in a very small area. Consequently, the Harly has been designated a landscape conservation area. It is accessible to recreationists via three adventure trails (start and finish at the Klosterkrug at Wöltingerode Monastery).

Path 1: Middle Harly. Southern edge of the forest, geological outcrops, Bear Valley with the "Kräuter-August-Höhle", sequoia tree, disused mines. (2 hours)

Path 2: Eastern Harly. Bärental valley, Harlyturm tower with views over the Oker floodplain, ridgeway through beech forest communities, former gypsum and lime mining, Rogenstein, remains of Harlyburg castle, mine. (3 hours)

Path 3: Western Harly. Mammutbaum, Waldmänneckenhöhle, either along the Weddebach or past a Rogenstein outcrop to the third mine. (3 hours)

North-west of Vienenburg, suitable for pushchairs to a limited extent. Duration 2 to 3 hours each

Directions: From Braunschweig travelling south on the A 395 to the Vienenburg exit, head west on the B 241 to Vienenburg and follow the signs.

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