Auenland Holiday Village

Who would have thought that the Shire is actually not that far away from us? Pan flute music fills the air as small children laugh and play. This is possible in Waffenrod at the Auenland Holiday Village, located between Erfurt and Bamberg. I had the chance to look around and spend a few nights in these rustic earth houses!

Fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies have surely dreamed of this: immersing oneself in Middle-earth and living in the cozy homes of the Hobbits. Now you don't even have to fly across the world to the filming locations in New Zealand, because the Shire is accessible by car. The cozy, rustic earth houses at the Auenland in Thuringia are even rated with three stars. They offer a unique, rustic, and cozy vacation experience away from everyday stress! I tested them for you.

If you are a city kid like me, then upon your arrival at the Shire, one thing will stand out: the fresh air! Far away from the noise and hustle-bustle of the cities, you are here alone with nature, enjoying not only an incredibly beautiful panoramic view of the valley but also breathing in a good dose of country air. Just look at the breathtaking view I had during my stay...

But not only the vast nature around the holiday village invites relaxation and enjoyment. The absolute highlight of my trip was, as you can imagine, staying in a real earth house. If you are thinking of a small, uncomfortable earth cave, you are mistaken, as these charming houses in the Thuringian Forest match the comfort of a star hotel! Upon my arrival, I was even assured with a wink that the Hobbits frolic around the grounds in the evenings. I can vividly imagine that in this setting! Especially cozy on cooler days: Each house is equipped with a small fireplace that you can light yourself. Cold winter evenings are definitely much cozier by a crackling fireplace, all wrapped up in a cozy blanket, don't you think?

With the oak and round wood furnishings and in front of the wooden fireplace, you feel as if you were in the heart of Middle-earth! The earth houses offer private terraces and accommodations for 2 to 4 people (4 children allowed for 2 adults). Perfect for a great family active vacation where everyone can enjoy. Additionally, the earth houses were awarded five stars by Holiday Check in 2014, and Family Check named the holiday village a top destination in June 2014. What are you waiting for? Pack your kids and visit the Shire!

Throughout the year, primarily families, but also couples, school classes, kindergartens, and hiking groups can experience various adventures here. Besides the unique accommodation in Germany, the Auenland Holiday Village offers fun for the whole family. In summer, there is a 420-meter long summer toboggan run and a large, wonderfully designed adventure playground. Additionally, the surrounding area offers exciting routes for hiking, cycling, and winter cross-country skiing in a fairytale atmosphere!

Are you longing for an adventure-filled yet relaxing hiking vacation? The Auenland Holiday Village is the perfect starting point for an extensive hiking tour, as it is surrounded on all sides by hiking trails and various routes through the Thuringian Forest. As true hikers, you have probably heard of the 'Rennsteig', Germany's most popular high-altitude hiking trail, right? How great that it is perfectly accessible from your accommodation. Will you take on the challenge? Of course, I made a small detour onto the famous hiking trail during my visit. I particularly liked the signposting and the well-maintained, wide hiking paths. Even the most inexperienced hiker won't get lost, and even I found my way through the Thuringian Forest!

In between, I couldn't resist taking a little break. With the beautiful panoramas along the way, it's very tempting to pause. On one side a colorful flower meadow, on the other the densest forest with a moss-covered floor - the Thuringian Forest is truly enchanting! Can you not imagine gnomes and fairies hopping between the old fir trees with these pictures?!

Culinarily, you will be fully satisfied at the rustic restaurant in the Auenland Holiday Village, especially if you enjoy traditional German cuisine! The Bergbaude restaurant is located close to the earth houses and is especially known for its family atmosphere. In the morning you can enjoy a hearty breakfast, and in the evening the friendly staff will take you into the world of Thuringian specialties. If you prefer to dine in a local establishment nearby, I recommend planning enough time. Since the Auenland Holiday Village is a bit off the beaten path from larger towns, I found myself sometimes reliant on my car to reach the nearest shopping options. But that's okay, because a few days in this somewhat secluded country idyll will surely do you some good!

Additionally, there are plenty of special packages with thematic relevance to book. For example, book the 'Family Fun' package and enjoy various extras that make children's hearts soar, or take some 'Time for Two' with your partner - wellness at a nearby spa included! Also very exciting is the winter special with ski hikes. I can hardly imagine how wonderful a winter visit here must be. The Shire with snow-covered hills amidst a breathtaking winter wonderland is undoubtedly a unique experience!

Are there any true Hobbit fans among you who would love to spend a night in the Shire? I really enjoyed my time here, and if you love nature's idyll and fresh air, or perhaps you're looking for a place where your kids can romp around, then you are absolutely right here! Be sure to check out the Auenland Holiday Village or let yourself be enchanted by other dream locations in Germany in my Travel Magazine!