Jena, May 24, 2026 – The mild spring days invite excursions into nature around the City of Light. A particularly rewarding destination on the Jena mountains is the Fuchsturm on the Hausberg, which rewards hikers with an impressive panoramic view.
- Destination: Fuchsturm on the Hausberg (Jena)
- Special feature: One of the traditional “Seven Wonders of Jena” (Vulpecula Turris)
- Infrastructure: Gaststätte „Fuchsturm“ with beer garden directly on the plateau
- Starting points for hikes: Jena-Ost, Ziegenhain or Wilhelmshöhe
The Ascent: Routes and Accessibility
The Fuchsturm is accessible via a well-developed network of hiking trails. Depending on fitness level and starting point, various routes are available:
- Via the Ziegenhainer Tal: An idyllic ascent leads up from the Jena district of Ziegenhain. This route is scenically attractive and leads through shady forest areas directly to the summit plateau.
- From the Wilhelmshöhe: A shorter and more comfortable path starts at the excursion restaurant Wilhelmshöhe. From there, the tower is also easy to hike for families with children.
- Directly from the city center: Those looking for a more athletic challenge start directly in the center and climb the Hausberg via the marked serpentine paths from Jena-Ost.
Once at the top, visitors can expect a far-reaching panoramic view over the Saaletal, the Kernberge, and the entire Jena city area as far as the Jentower.
Historical Site and Gastronomy
The striking, round keep is the last preserved part of a once powerful medieval castle complex. Right next to the historical tower, the Fuchsturmgaststätte invites visitors to stop for a bite. Hikers can recharge here in the beer garden or in the historical dining rooms. The tower itself can usually be climbed to enjoy the view from an even greater height.
🏛️ Historical Background: The Seven Wonders of Jena
The Fuchsturm is closely linked to the history of the university city and is one of the legendary “Seven Wonders of Jena” (Latin: Septem Miracula Jenensia). These sights were once recorded by the university’s students in a well-known mnemonic verse. The Fuchsturm is referred to therein as “Vulpecula Turris” (Fuchsturm). It is the former keep of the Kirchberg-Burg, one of three medieval defensive structures on the Hausberg that were destroyed in the 14th century. Since the 19th century, the Fuchsturm-Gesellschaft has been committed to the preservation and maintenance of the monument.
Source:
Viewpoints in Jena: Why a hike to the Fuchsturm is worth it
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.