Altenfeld: Hiking, glassmaking tradition and ski touring

Hiking and ski touring

Altenfeld’s extensive forests and valleys, with their clear streams, are ideal for walks and hikes. The Rennsteig is the high-altitude hiking trail of the Thuringian Forest. A circular trail on the local mountain, Haube, leads to both peaks; depending on the route chosen, it is 5 to 10 km long. The route you choose therefore determines the length of this hike.

Another option is the certified Pilzsteig health trail. It starts at Altenfeld’s market square or at Heubachsberg. The two routes described therefore differ in their planning details: for Haube, the length depends on the route, while two starting points are specified for the Pilzsteig.

The “Around the Rotkopf” ski tour offers another specific route to the Rennsteig. It starts at the edge of town on Neustädter Straße and continues to the Rennsteig. A ski tour is best planned with the local conditions in mind; winter conditions can change.

Glassmaking tradition and exhibitions

Glassmaking and glass finishing have been enduring traditions in Altenfeld since a glassworks was founded there in 1646. Glassblowing demonstrations offer a hands-on insight: they are available by prior arrangement for groups or from master glassblower Thomas Krannich at Masserberger Straße 14 in Altenfeld. Please arrange your visit in advance.

The exhibition on Altenfeld’s glassmaking tradition and local history opened at the community center in July 2002, on the occasion of the 2nd Thuringian Hiking Summer. Visits are possible during official events held by the local heritage association or by prior arrangement. The Kleine Galerie, which hosts changing thematic exhibitions, is also located in the same community center. The gallery complements the focus on glassmaking tradition with exhibitions on changing themes.

The Eger Musical Instrument Museum is also one of Altenfeld’s visitor attractions. Together with the exhibition and gallery, it forms a cultural focal point alongside the trails and landscape. For glassblowing demonstrations, please note that groups must register in advance or make arrangements with the named master glassblower.

Church and other leisure facilities

Altenfeld’s church was built between 1738 and 1741, with an octagonal floor plan, as a slate-clad half-timbered building in the so-called Bauernbarock style. It has been a listed building since 1983. Its design, materials and protected status provide specific points of reference for the town’s history.

Leisure options also include Altenfeld’s outdoor swimming pool, which has a water slide and diving boards. Next to the pool is a beach volleyball facility with three courts. These two facilities complement the hiking and cultural attractions with further opportunities to stay active. You can plan activities around your interests while keeping cultural and nature destinations in view.

Discover more destinations: Geraberg, Elgersburg, Frankenhain, Bücheloh, Geschwenda, Friedersdorf, Großbreitenbach, Neustadt Am Rennsteig.

Return to the regional travel overview: Ilm-Kreis.