Ates Most Favourite way to the Brocken
Heinrich Heine already knew that the most beautiful way leads from Ilsenburg to the Brocken.
For one or the other, however, the way up is somewhat arduous. Therefore, here is my tip how to best get up and down again,
You can combine a Brocken hike with a train ride on the Harzer Schmalspurbahn. I would go up and hike down!
Start for our adventure is of course Ates hut. First, walk a little 400m to the traffic circle. At the bus stop "Harzburger Straße" you get on the bus number 270 direction Wernigerode main station. Departure times from the bus are available here. Please keep in mind that there are differences between departures on weekdays and weekends. As a holidaymaker the trip is free for you and your family, all you need is your HATIX vacation ticket (the small booklet). You will receive it directly from us when you check in. Take the bus to Wernigerode to the final stop “Hauptbahnhof”/main station. While arriving there just look in the direction of the Brocken and you can already see the station of the HSB (Harzer Schmalspurbahn - traditional steam train) at the bus stop. There you can admire the trains before the journey to the mountain begins (sit on the left side of the train, there you have a better view ;-) ).
Once you reach the top, you can get a bite to eat at the Brockenwirt and devour something rustic. After a little refreshment, it's time to explore the summit. How about something interesting to know about the Brocken, then visit the Brockenhaus. For botanists side a visit to the Brocken Garden is worthwhile. There, at 1142m, you can already admire fauna that is otherwise only found in the Alps. From now on it goes the next 3.5 hours only downhill, not with you, but the altitude meters...
It's time for the descent and for this you use the Heinrich Heine path in the direction of Ilsenburg. The advantage of walking this way is the breathtaking view into the valley that accompanies you the whole 860 meters of altitude to Ilsenburg.
Along the Ilse you can get to know the rustic of the Harz. Arrived in Ilsenburg again, follow the Ilse valley to the marketplace and from there past the trout pond, it's only a few meters to Ates Hütte. There you will find cold packs, hot water bottles and a really comfortable bed (just in case).
before the trip:
buy online tickets for the Harz Schmalspurbahn online für die Harzer Schmalspurbahn kaufen
check the weather on the Brocken (down here it can be beautiful sunshine, but up there it can be icy)
pack enough provisions
During the hike you should have with you:
Your HATIX vacation ticket
Water or tea (thermos cups are of course in the apartment)
Provisions (lunch boxes are available)
Hiking map (you will find it with the flyers)
a thick sweater/windbreaker - safe is safe - because it can get windy