Highlight • Restaurant
Hiking
4.4
(258)
Mountain biking
5.0
(2)
Häuser Bräuhaus (Kleiner Inselsberg) is a welcoming restaurant and hotel complex nestled at an elevation of 728 metres in the heart of the Thuringian Forest, Germany. Situated on the Kleiner Inselsberg, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the scenic Thuringian Forest Nature Park and the renowned Rennsteig hiking trail. This family-friendly establishment offers a blend of traditional German cuisine and comfortable accommodation, making it a popular stop for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors consistently praise the convenient location…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
September 8, 2020
Hiking
November 1, 2018
Hiking
December 18, 2021
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Häuser Bräuhaus (Kleiner Inselsberg)

4.4
(9)
26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

3.0
(2)
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 730 m
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Thursday 16 July
28°C
16°C
88 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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Häuser Bräuhaus (Kleiner Inselsberg) is ideally situated directly on the renowned Rennsteig, offering immediate access to this long-distance hiking trail. From here, you can embark on both challenging routes towards the higher Großer Inselsberg or opt for more leisurely, circular walks through the surrounding Thuringian Forest. Many visitors use it as a starting point for day hikes or as a crucial stop during multi-day treks.
While the area is primarily accessed by car, public transport options to the Kleiner Inselsberg region exist, though they may require transfers. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes connecting to Brotterode-Trusetal or nearby towns, which might have connections closer to the Inselsberg area. However, for direct access to the restaurant and its immediate hiking trails, driving is often the most convenient option.
Generally, no specific permits are required for hiking on designated trails within the Thuringian Forest Nature Park, including the area around Kleiner Inselsberg. However, always respect local regulations, stay on marked paths, and be mindful of protected areas. If you plan to engage in specific activities like mountain biking off-trail or large group events, it's wise to check with local tourism offices for any special requirements.
As a popular spot directly on the Rennsteig and with a nearby fun park, Häuser Bräuhaus (Kleiner Inselsberg) can experience higher visitor numbers, especially on weekends, public holidays, and during peak summer or autumn hiking seasons. The large parking lot can fill up, and the restaurant's various dining areas (including the summer terrace and beer garden) can be busy. For a quieter experience, consider visiting on weekdays or earlier in the morning.
Beyond its child-friendly restaurant amenities, including a dedicated play corner, the location itself is very family-friendly. The nearby fun park offers additional entertainment for children. The surrounding area provides numerous easy hiking trails suitable for families with younger children, allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities before or after a meal at the Bräuhaus.
Dogs are generally welcome on most hiking trails in the Thuringian Forest, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. It's always a good idea to check specific trail regulations, especially in nature reserve areas. While the restaurant itself is a welcoming establishment, it's best to inquire directly with Häuser Bräuhaus (Kleiner Inselsberg) regarding their specific policy for dogs inside the dining areas or on the terrace.
Häuser Bräuhaus (Kleiner Inselsberg) itself offers comfortable hotel rooms, making it a convenient overnight stop for hikers on the Rennsteig. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity for a hot shower and a clean room after several days on the trail. Additionally, the surrounding towns and villages in the Thuringian Forest offer various guesthouses, hotels, and holiday apartments for different budgets and preferences.
While the main Rennsteig can be popular, exploring some of the smaller, less-trafficked side trails branching off from the main route can lead to quieter experiences. Look for paths that delve deeper into the forest away from the immediate vicinity of the Kleiner Inselsberg summit. Local maps or a detailed hiking app can help you discover these hidden gems and less-frequented viewpoints that still offer beautiful vistas of the Thuringian Forest.
In winter, the landscape around Häuser Bräuhaus (Kleiner Inselsberg) transforms into a snowy wonderland. While the main trails are often maintained, conditions can vary from packed snow to icy patches or deeper powder. Winter walks are popular, and the restaurant often offers seasonal treats like mulled wine and bratwurst. For winter hiking, appropriate gear such as waterproof boots, gaiters, and possibly microspikes for icy conditions, is highly recommended.
Beyond the panoramic views from the Kleiner Inselsberg itself, hikers can explore the dense Thuringian Forest, which is rich in natural beauty. The Rennsteig trail itself is a significant landmark, steeped in history. Keep an eye out for various forest types, unique rock formations, and the diverse flora and fauna of the Thuringian Forest Nature Park. The nearby Großer Inselsberg, with its observation tower, is another prominent landmark easily accessible from the area.
Häuser Bräuhaus (Kleiner Inselsberg) offers a large parking lot, which is a significant convenience for hikers arriving by car. This makes it an excellent starting point for various trails, including those along the Rennsteig. While the parking is ample, it can fill up quickly during peak times, especially on sunny weekends or holidays, so arriving earlier in the day is advisable to secure a spot.