My TIP: The region is well described in the following book:
GERA & Thuringian Vogtland
A HIKING & TRAVEL GUIDE for active vacationers, hikers, car and cultural tourists, with hikes near Gera, in the Thuringian Vogtland and on the White Elster Trail, Thuringian Luther Trail, Zeulenroda Dam Trail, Weida Valley Trail, Hohenwarte Reservoir Trail, and in the Plothen Pond area.
Country and People: Interesting facts about nature, history, culture, language, and cuisine
Travel section: Descriptions of cities, villages, and regions with their sights
Hiking section: 39 hiking tour descriptions with overview maps
Travel & Hiking Guide: Gera & Thuringian Vogtland with Greiz, Saalfeld, Plauen...