Teufelsmauer in Harz named Germany's 2026 Nature Wonder

The Teufelsmauer in the Harz region has been voted Germany’s ‘Naturwunder 2026’ (Nature Wonder of the Year 2026). The sandstone rock formation, which stretches approximately 20 kilometers between Blankenburg and Ballenstedt, received 30.46 percent of the total votes in a nationwide online poll.

The competition was organized by the Heinz-Sielmann-Stiftung and the Deutscher Wanderverband. Following the Teufelsmauer, the Saalfelder Feengrotten in Thuringia took second place with 24.48 percent, while the Brenner Moor in Schleswig-Holstein placed third with 10.59 percent.

Formed roughly 80 million years ago through tectonic uplift and erosion, the Teufelsmauer is considered one of Germany’s most significant geoptoes. Beyond its geological importance, the area serves as a vital ecological habitat for species such as peregrine falcons, bats, lizards, and grass snakes.