From Baumann Cave to Rappbodetalsperre - Harzdrenaline

Friday, 14 April 2023 07:49
Written by Portal Editor

Of course, we had long since heard about the huge suspension bridge at the Rappbodetalsperre, and we were already familiar with the double rope slide almost parallel to the dam wall.

However, we are probably no longer of the age that it is almost a must to experience and try out this thrill for yourself. Geared more towards hiking or cycling, it is of course still exciting to at least look at these highlights. But the weather was still not really good, so there were showers across the country and therefore our stamina on the zip line and on the suspension bridge was not really enduring, which you can see in the pictures.

Suspension bridge almost parallel to the dam wall of the Rappbodetalsperre

First we had crossed the dam coming from the Baumann Cave in Rübeland, then drove back to the parking lot and went through the tunnel to the dam. Already from the dam wall we saw numerous people who were walking on the suspension bridge. The so-called "Titan-RT" suspension bridge, with its fabulous total length of 458.5 meters, stretches along the dam wall of the Bode reservoir. Four main suspension cables with a diameter of 65 mm form the backbone of the 120-ton structure. In addition, the bridge is kept in shape—and in position at higher wind speeds—with 2 stabilization cables.

The catwalk (grating) with a width of 120 cm is bordered along its entire length by a 130 cm high railing and is closed off at the sides with stainless steel nets. The filigree cable construction was completed in spring 2017 and claws into the slate rocks on both sides of the valley with a tremendous pulling force of 947 tons. Due to this construction method, it is possible for every guest (it is advantageous to have a head for heights) to walk through this unique building without additional safety equipment. Sturdy shoes and a bit of courage are enough to experience the very special adventure at a height of 100 meters.

Through the tunnel (here we were well protected from the onset of downpour), we then went back to the parking lot and thus to the ascent to the so-called Solitair.

Solitaire and Zip Line - Harzdrenaline at the Rappbodetalsperre

Once above the Rappbodetalsperre, the "Solitair" stretches 39 meters above the terrain. The steel lattice construction was completed in spring 2022 and allows a wide view over the eastern Harz and the Harz foothills, at least on a clear day and in good weather. With 16 meter deep pile foundations, the filigree construction holds to the ground and is surrounded on all sides with textile architectural fabric. The tower can be climbed via 160 steps or with a panoramic glass elevator. On the viewing platform, which consists of gratings, there are two glass bows, from which a premium view of the Rappbodetal with the dam and suspension bridge is possible.

If the ascent over the 160 steps of the staircase is too boring and you don't feel like using the lift, you can also let yourself be catapulted into the air with "Ultrashot". We didn't want to find out whether you can also "get off" on the platform during the "flight". Not for the faint of heart!

If this ascent is not enough for you, you can at least look for the faster way down, because so-called wall running is also offered here. You climb down the outside of the viewing platform on the cliff face, of course roped up, but..... not really something for us either.

That leaves the zip line. Brave people made their way down to the valley station, despite the heavy rain. Packed in solid bags almost like paragliders, the brave ones went down hanging on their backs. At breakneck speed, of course. If you want, you can also get a video of your flight. We had already used such a zip line in Omis in Croatia and were really excited, but without constant rain. Then it's something different.

Have fun trying out this special attraction Harzdrenaline.

Please read as well:

Sinkholes - Red and Blue Lake next to Imotski

Ochsenstein Castle near Reinhardsmunster