Gut Schönrath

Gut Schönrath is an estate in Höhenhaus consisting of three single-story farm buildings arranged in a U-shape and a two-story residential house built in 1870. The property includes protected gardens, forest areas, and an orchard that form an integrated rural complex.

The estate became part of Altenberg Cistercian Abbey's holdings in 1210 when Knight Sigwin transferred the property to settle his debts. Over time, it grew to become one of the largest monastic farms in the region through the acquisition of neighboring lands.

The name Gut Schönrath comes from German words meaning 'beautiful clearing' and reflects the original woodland landscape of the location. The way the estate is organized today, with residential and farm buildings grouped together, shows a traditional rural layout that still speaks to its agricultural roots.

The site has been protected as a heritage monument since 1980 and is maintained as a cultural landmark today. Visitors should be prepared for its rural location and expect to walk through gardens and wooded areas.

At roughly 240 hectares, this estate was the largest farm belonging to Altenberg Abbey, making it exceptional among the monastery's holdings. Such size allowed it to serve as a major supply source for the abbey's operations.