From the year 1880 to the year 1936 basalt was gathered at a quarry named ‘Igelsburg‘ (after a former wooden castle close-by) in the Habichtswald near Kassel, Germany. It existed there because of volcanic activity millions of years ago. Basalt was in the past used for buildings like the Herkules monument or the Löwenburg castle – but it is an imperfect material that deteriorates fast. As there was no need for the quarry anymore the area filled with water and a new lake was created: the Silbersee (‘silver lake’).
Hut at the Silbersee, KasselBasalt at the Silbersee, Kassel
Near the lake you can find a protective hut and benches. This area can be rented to have a barbecue. In addition, there is also a camping area next to the lake that is pretty cheap and offers nearly no facilities – but it has a good location! If you get here have a stop at the Waldgaststätte Silbersee; it is only a simple restaurant but has a very nice beergarden.
The Naturpark Habichtswald close to Kassel, Germany offers numerous nice hiking trails. One of the best leads along the river Ahne - beginning at its source near the Essigberg. Following this trail you will pass a three kilometers long chestnut alley (the 'Kastanienallee'), you can make a detour to the…
It is disputed whether the Igelsburg (formerly Engelsburg) in the Habichtswald forest was a real castle. Ancient sketches show just four houses on top of a basalt rock protected by palisades. At which point in time this fortification was built is unknown, but it is believed that it was used…
The Brasselsberg is a 434 meters high mountain at Kassel, Germany which belongs to the Habichtswald in northern Hesse. It is an area with wonderful forests which is especially suitable for hiking. The paths are prepared well and signs guide you the right way which place you ever want to…
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