Experience Vogtlandkreis – Saxony’s hidden holiday paradise
The Vogtlandkreis is located in the southwestern corner of Saxony and borders Thuringia, Bavaria and the Czech Republic. The region is known for its magnificent nature, historic towns and authentic cultural heritage. Whether you are looking for a cozy apartment in a historic city center, a secluded villa surrounded by forests or a family-friendly holiday home by a quiet reservoir, the Vogtlandkreis offers the perfect setting for a relaxing and eventful holiday.
The history behind the “land of the bailiffs”
The region’s name dates back to the 12th century, when the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa appointed imperial officials known as Vögte to administer the area. These bailiffs left behind an impressive legacy of castles and mansions that still characterise the landscape today. Later, the area developed into an international centre for crafts and industry. The town of Plauen was particularly known for its exclusive textile lace, while Markneukirchen became famous for the production of world-class musical instruments.
An idyllic holiday experience in scenic surroundings
The Vogtlandkreis offers rolling green hills, deep valleys and dense forests, which create a peaceful atmosphere for visitors. The region offers many different types of accommodation, from modern villas to traditional half-timbered houses.
Stay in the spa town of Bad Elster
The elegant spa town of Bad Elster is particularly popular with visitors looking for wellness and relaxation. Here you will find beautiful 19th-century buildings, green parks and luxurious spa experiences.
Family holiday at the Pöhl Dam
For families and nature lovers, a holiday home or apartment near the Pöhl Dam is an obvious choice. The area offers both relaxation and active experiences close to nature.
Nature and attractions in Vogtlandkreis
The region's landscape is ideal for outdoor activities and nature experiences all year round.
The Green Belt
Along the former inner German border, you will find the Green Belt – an impressive natural area filled with rare plants and animal species. Today, the area is a symbol of nature's ability to regenerate.
Spa resorts with healing springs
Bad Elster is known for its healing heath mud, while Bad Brambach attracts visitors with the world's strongest radon source.
Göltzschtal Bridge
The world-famous Göltzschtal Bridge is the world's largest brick bridge and consists of more than 26 million bricks. The bridge is an impressive example of historical engineering and one of the region's biggest attractions.
Activities for the whole family
The Vogtlandkreis offers activities for both active holidaymakers and culture enthusiasts.
Hiking and cycling
The area has a large network of hiking and cycling trails, including the Vogtland Panorama Weg and the Erzgebirge-Vogtland Ridgeway. Mountain bike enthusiasts can experience action-packed downhill routes at Bikewelt Schöneck.
Winter sports in Klingenthal
Klingenthal is the center of winter sports in the region. Here, visitors can experience the modern Vogtland Arena, which hosts international ski jumping competitions.
Crafts and traditions
Visit the Fabrik der Fäden in Plauen and experience the famous lace production, or explore the musical instrument museum in Markneukirchen, where traditional violin makers still work by hand.
Typical dishes from the Vogtlandkreis
The local cuisine is rustic, flavorful and perfect after an active day in nature.
Vogtländische Klöße
These traditional potato dumplings with crispy crouton filling are often served with hearty sauces, roasts or game dishes.
Bambes
Bambes are crispy potato pancakes, often served with applesauce or chanterelles.
Local beer traditions
The region's breweries, including Sternquell and Wernesgrüner, produce classic German lagers with long brewing traditions.
Festivals and cultural experiences
Festivals and cultural events are held in the Vogtlandkreis all year round.
Plauen Lace Festival
This annual festival celebrates the city's proud lacemaking history with parades, music and crafts.
Theatre and concerts in Bad Elster
The König Albert Theater hosts opera, classical concerts and theatre performances all year round.
Traditional Christmas markets
In autumn and winter, the region's villages transform into cozy Christmas markets filled with mulled wine, roasted almonds and handmade Christmas decorations.