Oberhof in the Thuringian Forest is one of Germany’s most famous winter sports centers, renowned internationally for hosting World Cup events in biathlon, luge, bobsleigh, and Nordic combined. In January, my partner and I headed up into the snowy heights of the Rennsteig for a four-day ski getaway.
Base Camp in Oberhof & Thuringian Forest Card
We stayed at the Parkhotel Oberhof. Guests receive the regional guest card, which includes free local transit and generous discounts on leisure activities throughout the region. A stroll through the snow-covered town ended at a cozy café with warm traditional apple strudel.
Cross-Country Skiing at Grenzadler & Schneekopf
Oberhof is a Nordic skiing wonderland with over 100 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails (Loipen). Starting from the Grenzadler biathlon center, we set out on a 12-kilometer trail looping past the Hohe Möst. The tracks were in pristine condition, winding through snow-laden spruce forests.
The following day, we skied up towards the Schneekopf (the second highest peak in Thuringia at 978 meters). Despite dense mountain mists and brisk winds, arriving at the rustic Neue Gehlberger Hütte for steaming coffee and warm soup was absolute mountain bliss.
Alpine Skiing, Snowtubing & Thermal Relaxation
For alpine downhill skiing, the local slopes at Fallbachlift offer accessible family-friendly runs. We also tried snowtubing – speeding down an icy banked chute on giant inflatable rubber donuts – and spent a relaxing afternoon soaking in the saltwater thermal pools of the nearby Masserberg Badehaus spa.
Oberhof offers authentic winter charm right in the heart of Germany – ideal for cross-country enthusiasts, winter hikers, and families alike!
💡 Discover Thuringia: From Winter Forests to the Saale Valley
If you’d like to combine a winter sports getaway in the Thuringian Forest with cultural and urban excursions in the picturesque Saale Valley, visit the regional portal Jena Lokal for local news, weekend guides, and event highlights in Jena and Central Germany.