Nerkewitz/Jena, 28.04.2026 – The traditional spring hike of the Saale-Holzland-Kreis led over 100 nature enthusiasts through the idyllic Gönnatal this year. Together with prominent guests from regional politics, the hiking season in the surroundings of Jena was officially opened.
- Event: Spring Hike 2026 of the Saale-Holzland-Kreis
- Date: April 25, 2026
- Starting Point: Dorfplatz Nerkewitz
- Participants: Around 115 hikers
- Outlook: Autumn hike on September 26, 2026 (Mertendorf – Rockau – Wetzdorf)
Together through the Northwest of the District
At the invitation of District Administrator Johann Waschnewski, numerous hiking enthusiasts gathered last Saturday to explore the nature of the Saale-Holzland-Kreis together. This year’s route focused on the Gönnatal in the northwest of the region. The official starting signal was given at the Dorfplatz of the municipality of Nerkewitz.
On site, District Administrator Waschnewski, together with the Mayor of Nerkewitz, Michael Döring, welcomed the approximately 115 participants. The event also enjoyed supra-regional political participation: in addition to Jena’s Lord Mayor Dr. Thomas Nitzsche, former District Administrator Andreas Heller also took part in the tour. Heller had initiated this popular hiking tradition in the district back in 2007.
Next Stage in Autumn
After the successful tour through the Gönnatal, the district is already looking ahead to the second half of the year. At the end of the event, District Administrator Waschnewski announced the date for the upcoming autumn hike. This is planned for September 26, 2026, and is expected to lead participants through the region around Mertendorf, Rockau, and Wetzdorf.
Background: Hiking in the Gönnatal and Surroundings
The Gönnatal, characterized by the Gönnerbach, is a scenic side valley of the Saale and borders the urban area of Jena to the northwest. With its rolling hills, agricultural areas, and natural paths, the region is considered a highly frequented local recreation area – not only for the residents of the Saale-Holzland-Kreis but especially for nature enthusiasts from Jena. Traditional district hikes like this one strengthen the connection in the region and promote informal exchange between citizens and the neighboring municipalities.
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Spring hike in the Gönnatal
Transparency Note: This article was automatically created, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.