Protecting nature
The natural richness of Harz National Park: a variety of flora and fauna in a relatively small area
Being the northernmost upland region in Germany, the Harz rises from the surrounding lowlands and withstands wind and rain and other weather conditions, which can be rough at times. Therefore, the local climatic conditions are harsh and can be compared to those found in parts of Scandinavia.
At 1,141 m above sea level, Brocken is the highest mountain of the area. It consists of granite, a type of rock which forms strange shapes due to weathering. The legendary mountain is a part of a unique landscape which is characterized by steep mountain ranges, plateaus, cliffs, valleys and gorges.
All height levels can be found in a relatively small area, ranging from the hill lands to Brocken summit. Each one of them offers individual conditions for rich flora and fauna. Climate and geological features also add to this diversity. Among the German upland regions, the Harz is the only one with a natural forest line beyond which lies a treeless mountain heath landscape.
In the mountain spruce forests of the higher regions, featuring clear mountain streams, rocks, boulder fields and bogs, you can find the "legendary mountain wilderness", which invites you to take a few minutes for yourself and enjoy it.
