12 kilometres from the Vitalhotel, right on the B498 in the Oker valley, one of Germany’s most impressive waterfalls plunges 64 metres into the depths. The Romkerhall Waterfall is the highest waterfall in the Harz — and it doesn’t cost a cent.
A waterfall for a king
In 1863, King George V of Hanover had the waterfall created. It was not nature but the king himself who wanted a romantic backdrop for his hunting lodge, Romkerhall. Since then, the water of the river Romke has been channelled over an artificially built cliff and falls 64 metres in free fall — before flowing on into the Oker.
What was intended as decoration is today one of the most visited natural attractions in the Harz. The best part: no ticket queue, no entrance fee, no crowds — just water, rock and forest.
Winter: when the waterfall freezes over
During prolonged cold spells, the Romkerhall Waterfall freezes completely. A gigantic ice sculpture forms, drawing ice climbers from all over Germany. Anyone who arrives in January or February and is lucky with the weather experiences something hard to put into words.
In spring, when the meltwater comes down from the Harz, the waterfall is at its loudest. In autumn the surrounding forests glow red and gold. There is no bad time of year.
How to get there
By car: 15 minutes from the hotel, parking right on the B498 — free, no reservation needed. On foot or by bike: the Oker valley is a popular cycle route; from Schulenberg it’s a good two-hour hike through the valley. If you want to hike the Oker reservoir and add the waterfall to your route, it’s best to set aside a whole day.
Just before it lies the Hotel Königreich Romkerhall — a good stop for coffee and cake on the way back.