Lichtenhain: Mountain Railway, Fröbelwald and Maschinarium

At the mountain station of the Thuringian Mountain Railway, Lichtenhain brings historic railway technology together with experiences in nature. The Maschinarium and Fröbelwald are right there; the themes range from the engine house to woodland and traditional crafts. This contrast makes the place interesting if you want to choose between the history of technology, experiencing nature and going for a hike during your holiday.

Mountain Railway: History, Route and Travel Information

The Thuringian Mountain Railway opened in 1923. Its operator describes it as the world’s steepest funicular railway for transporting standard-gauge railway carriages, a distinction it still holds today. The connection from the Lichtenhain mountain station via Oberweißbach to Cursdorf includes two historic ET 479 class electric railcars. In the Olitäten carriage, passengers can discover herbs and Olitäten during the journey; this offer is seasonal and weather-dependent.

The Thuringian Mountain Railway will be out of service from 13 July to mid-December 2026 for maintenance work. Check the latest status before travelling, especially if you are planning your stay around a train journey.

The Maschinarium: An Insight into Railway Technology

The Maschinarium at the mountain station of the Thuringian Mountain Railway in Lichtenhain offers an interactive insight into railway technology. You can explore the engine house and its drive system, drive pulleys, motors and brakes. At various stations, the railway’s operation, technology and special features are explained interactively. The focus is therefore not only on the journey, but also on the mechanics behind the railway.

Fröbelwald: Experience Nature with All Your Senses

Fröbelwald is right next to the mountain station and is Lichtenhain’s adventure woodland for children. Visitors experience the forest air, sounds of nature and the natural environment through different senses. It also offers insights into the forest, its inhabitants and the region’s traditional crafts. Experiencing nature and regional craft traditions thus complement the Maschinarium’s focus on technology—two different themes to shape your stay around.

Hiking at the Mountain Railway Station

You can also set out on a hike from the mountain railway station in Lichtenhain. The “In the Footsteps of the Hunchback Apothecaries” Nature Park Trail reaches the Thuringian Mountain Railway and Fröbelwald in Lichtenhain. The hiking trail of the same name begins and ends at Lichtenhain mountain railway station. Check local information about the route before setting out.

Lichtenhain as a Base for Your Stay

Having all these experiences centred around the mountain station makes it easy to choose according to your travel interests: the Maschinarium focuses on technology, Fröbelwald on experiencing nature and traditional crafts, and the hiking trail on a walk that starts and ends at the station. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Lichtenhain, consider whether the railway and technology, woodland or outdoor activities should shape your stay. This way, you can choose your location based on the experiences you actually plan to enjoy.

Discover more destinations: Unterwellenborn, Unterhain, Schwarzburg, Piesau, Leutnitz, Saalfelder Höhe, Leutenberg, Kamsdorf

Go to the main travel overview: Saalfeld-Rudolstadt.