Saxon & Bohemian Switzerland

Bad Schandau is perched right on the edge of the Saxon Switzerland National Park, in the Elbe sandstone mountains. Just 6km from the Czech border, the town dates back to the 14th century and is home to many timber-framed houses and typically Germanic architecture.

Dresden, Prague or Berlin Airports are gateway hubs into this part of Germany and are served by a variety of low cost and international airlines. Intercity trains are available from the cities’ main train stations to Bad Schandau. The train station in Bad Schandau is a short ferry ride across the river from the town.

The walk starts with a steady climb up the side of the valley to Brand which offers breath-taking views over the dramatic landscape of Elbe sandstone hills. Continue upwards to the imposing ruins of Hohnstein Castle. From here there is a more relaxing descent through idyllic valleys back to the Elbe river at Rathen. If you prefer, you can take the bus from Hohnstein to Rathen (payable locally).

Ascent/Descent: 487m/485m

This morning, begin with a walk up to the world-famous rocky viewpoint of the Bastei, then return to the river at Stadt Wehlen.Take the ferry across the river, then walk via the Bärenstein rock outcrops to the impressive fortress town of Königstein, where you will overnight.

Ascent/Descent: 557m/557m

Today starts with a walk through the forest to the famous Barbarine rock needle. Then you walk to the top of the Pfaffenstein, from where you will enjoy fine views to the Lilienstein. Your day ends at the pretty spa village of Gohrisch. Why not sit back and relax with ‘Kaffee und Kuchen’ at one of the village’s little cafés—satisfied in the knowledge that you’ve earned a treat.

Ascent/Descent: 428m/268m

Your route lies through countryside known at the ‘Empire of Stones’. First climb to the summit of Gohrisch mountain, then continue the hike on to Papstein, where you’ll enjoy lofty views over forested hills and patchwork of fields and villages. Continue to the villages of Cunnersdorf and Kleingiesshubel to end back at the river Elbe at the pretty town of Krippen.

Ascent/Descent: 324m/484m

Today you begin your adventure by taking a train and crossing the border into the Czech Republic (don’t forget to bring your ID, although this is still in the Schengen area!). Take the ferry to Hrensko and walk to the Pravcická brána, the largest natural rock arch in Europe. Make sure you have your camera at the ready! Descend to the photogenic valley of the tranquil Kamenice river, which flows between lush rock faces. Continue back to the valley of the Elbe at Hrensko and return to Krippen.

Ascent/Descent: 444m/403m

Cross the Elbe by ferry and walk to the Schramstein Rocks. Please be aware that today’s walk involves a number of very steep rocky paths and sections where the route requires you to use iron steps in the rock. On leaving the rocks you walk through fine woodland to the cave at Kuhstall. The cave is also known as the ‘cow stall’ cave and was the subject of paintings by the Romantic Artists. Continue to the valley of the Kirnitzsch. From here you return to Bad Schandau, either along the path by the river or using the historic Kirnitzsch valley trams.

Ascent/Descent: 675m/632m

Check-out of your accommodation and make your own way home.