Priorteich/ Sachsenstein

Priorteich/Sachsenstein is a protected area spanning 315 hectares between Bad Sachsa and Walkenried with ponds, beech forests, and open grasslands. The landscape is shaped by natural water bodies and forest formations that create a varied habitat.

Medieval Cistercian monks established a system of approximately 365 ponds across the Walkenried region for water management. Only about 50 of these original water bodies remain visible in the landscape today.

The Sachseneiche oak stands on the northern edge and is a landmark that hikers discover along the trails. The tree has shaped the landscape for centuries and serves as a meeting point for visitors exploring the area.

The area is accessible through several hiking trails, including the Karstwanderweg, which connects different parts of the region. A parking area near the forest swimming pool provides a convenient starting point for exploring.

The area contains natural cavities called Zwergenloecher, formed by the interaction between local rock and water over time. These geological features offer a rare glimpse into the underground processes that shaped the landscape.

Location: Bad Sachsa

Location: Walkenried

Inception: 1950

GPS coordinates: 51.58720,10.59250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:42