Hiking, cross-country skiing, cycling and nature around the Zollhaus
You can hike very well around the customs house. There are many well-signposted paths, and even if you walk cross-country, you can find your way with the help of a mobile phone GPS or by crossing roads that can help you find your way. The landscape around the customs house is characterised by forests and fields as well as streams that flow through both. There is usually snow in winter - and sometimes in the transitional seasons - even if there is none in other parts of Germany, which can be very beautiful for both skiers and hikers. The white blanket of snow on the fields and trees, the crystals on the grasses and the ice patterns on the lakes and streams are idyllic and look as if they have been painted.
Guided hikes at the customs house
Felix Förster, who not only has the same name, but also studied forestry and worked as a forester, leads hikes around the customs house. These are, for example, an integral part of Yoga and hiking, Fasting hike orAlkaline fasting programmeswhich you can do in the customs house. But other holidaymakers can also sign up for these walks. Felix explains in an entertaining and informative way how to interpret certain animal tracks; what distinguishes the fir tree from the spruce and why we often refer to the Christmas tree in the living room as a fir tree; and which holes are made by the woodpecker for foraging or as a nesting area.
Biodiversity in the Ore Mountains
The forests around the customs house are home to a wide variety of animal species: roe deer, red deer, wild boar, wolves and foxes. Even a moose is said to have wandered through the area many years ago! We sometimes see feathers on our hikes and Felix helps us to identify them as bird species.
The ridge path invites you to stroll
The area is also easy to explore on your own. The well-known ridge trail passes behind the customs house, is well signposted and runs parallel to the border with the Czech Republic. You can also walk to the Czech Republic, e.g. to the nearby village of Moldava, within half an hour. In winter, cross-country ski trails run along the border and you can quickly cover long distances on cross-country skis.
Cycling for advanced cyclists
In summer, on the other hand, those with strong calves - or who would like to have them - can get on their bikes. Because if you cycle on the roads between the villages near Hermsdorf, Altenberg and Seide, you have to be prepared for a few climbs and then long descents. However, the uphill stretches are much easier on an e-bike. The Zollhaus itself has mountain bikes (not e-bikes) for guests to hire.
Get to know and practise the Wim Hof Method
If you want to challenge your circulation further, you can also swim in the forest lake or take a Wim Hof Seminar participate. The Wim Hof method aims to strengthen the immune system and promote mental balance through breathing techniques, meditation and exposure to the cold. The latter can be achieved, for example, by ice bathing or walking in the snow. You can attend such seminars over several days at the Zollhaus or familiarise yourself with the method in a one-day workshop lasting several hours.
Enjoy a sauna or massage in the evening
To warm up or relax tired bones, you are invited to use our saunas in the afternoons and evenings, or the lavish massage and wellness programme to participate.
