a choice of accommodation and criss-crossed by superbly waymarked forest and hill paths, to make walking a delight even for the least experienced. Saxon Kings and Princes sought minerals in the region, creating towns whose medieval splendour survives. Around the legendary Brocken is one of Europe''s newest and most distinctive National Parks. Wild boar, deer and wild cats still roam the ancient forests and deep gorges. You''ll also find Europe''s largest and most extensive narrow gauge steam railway network, a delight for railbuffs and nostalgics alike, providing superb, carfree access to some of the area''s finest walking country. Until 1989 this was land divided by The Iron Curtain. Now the East Harz remains a region emerging from a time warp.