A Sustainable Weekend in the Rhön
The Rhön is a low mountain range in the German states of Hesse, Thuringia, and Bavaria and is fully protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The declared goal is to combine nature conservation with local agriculture and tourism to strengthen the entire region, preserve biodiversity, and protect the habitat as a whole.
For travelers, this means that they can experience a mixture of pristine nature, such as moors and forests, and natural landscapes shaped by man. A weekend holiday suffices to get a first impression.
Eco-Friendly Arrival on Friday
Located in the center of Germany, the Rhön is easy to reach. From the ICE train station in Fulda, take the regional train to Mellrichstadt. After a long time on the train, the short walk to STURM is a good way to get a first impression of the small town.
At STURM you will find comfortable rooms in the typical minimalist STURM design, either in the main building or in the new extension with a view of the garden. Depending on your arrival time, you can take a first walk through the extensive nature park, explore the snack garden, or make use of the RHÖN SPA.
From 18:00, an excellent dinner with regional specialties and products awaits you at Otto|s Restaurant. What’s unique: The open concept allows you to interact directly with the culinary team. But don’t let the evening end too late, because the next day will be packed with activities in the Rhön Biosphere Reserve.
Nature experience and relaxation on Saturday
Rays of sunshine tickling your nose and birds singing through the open windows – no matter where you stay at STURM, nature will wake you up. Some guests take a dip in the natural pond before breakfast, while others prefer to enjoy the first minutes of the day on the balcony or terrace.
The restaurant Otto|s serves a colorful, regional, and 100% organic breakfast from 7:00 a.m. (weekdays) or 7:30 a.m. (weekends). The special egg dishes made from local eggs, such as the Onsen egg, are a highlight for many guests.
After a hearty breakfast, it’s off to the Rhön. For this, mountain bikes can be rented at STURM. Alternatively, you can rent e-bikes or explore the region on foot. Whether on foot or by bike, several guided tours into the Biosphere Reserve start at STURM. If you prefer to explore on your own, the reception team will be happy to show you the best sights. One of the highlights is the 2.5 km nature trail in the Black Moor. On boardwalks, you can discover this special natural landscape and get an insight into the flora and fauna. It takes about two and a half hours to get there from STURM.
Around noon, we recommend a stop in Gersfeld at the foot of the Wasserkuppe. This small town not only has a lovely downtown but is also home to the ”Natürlich Rhön” shop. In addition to regional delicacies, the shop offers artistic and handcrafted souvenirs and gifts for people back home. Particularly distinctive: Products featuring the Rhön sheep Käthe, which adorns art prints, caps, and T-shirts.
After an eventful day, a visit to the RHÖN SPA is just the thing. With a mix of modern massages and traditional methods such as shiatsu, the STURM spa team will ensure lasting relaxation. A visit to the garden sauna or the newly designed Room of Silence completes the spa experience.
Heading out fresh on Sunday
Even if you have to go home on Sunday, do not rush. Instead of rushing to pack your suitcase, enjoy a good breakfast and a last walk through the nature park. Take your time to enjoy the Rhön and consciously say goodbye before you head back to Mellrichstadt station and home.
Even more inspiration for green weekend trips:
Whether alone or with the family, interested in culture, or a nature lover, everyone will find the right weekend getaway on our blog.
