Discover your piece of Saxon Switzerland.

Whether oven-fresh cakes from the wood-fired oven, snacks for the small appetite, a cool Schmilkaer Helles in the beer garden, receptions of all kinds, family celebrations or feasts like in August's time... ... our gastronomic facilities on Europe's largest open mountain fortress offer the right setting for every occasion! In our restaurants, in the lovingly designed and authentically recreated historical ambience, you can feel and experience the history of the legendary and historic Königstein Fortress!

The "Ottendorfer Hütte" is a mountain inn on the edge of the Saxon Switzerland National Park, located above the picturesque Kirnitzsch Valley. From here, the most beautiful places in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains can be hiked. Stop at the Ottendorfer Hütte after your hike and enjoy the last hours of the day in our cosy restaurant, in the beer garden or around the campfire.

Directly on the Malerweg after the Uttewald rock gate, the rustic inn is looking forward to hiking guests. Home-style cuisine with mainly Saxon dishes or regional homemade specialties from game are often served. Soft drinks or a cup of coffee or tea are of course also on the menu.

Whether for a leisurely breakfast, a lunch with a view of the historic old town or a dinner in a relaxed atmosphere - the Canaletto café and restaurant in Pirna is always a good choice. The location on Pirna's car-free Obermarkt is particularly impressive. From here, there is a picturesque view of the historic old town of Pirna – a view that once inspired the famous artist Canaletto.

Homemade cake for coffee, ice cream and local specialties for dinner. Whether for small or large appetites, hearty game or vegetarian | vegan, just a coffee with dessert for the appetite or a cold beer after the hike. After the kitchen closes, the hotel bar provides you with a nightcap.Reservations for groups and family celebrations are gladly accepted by the Tilia restaurant.

Enjoy handcrafted drinking chocolates, fresh cakes, exquisite truffles and chocolates, and chocolate-coated fruits, while the beguiling scent of chocolate art caresses your senses. Here, directly on Malerweg, you will not only get exquisite sweets, but also the opportunity to create your own sweet work of art in various chocolate courses.

Enjoy regional delicacies and international specialties in a restaurant that lives over 200 years of hospitality. In front of you spreads a breathtaking panorama with majestic table mountains and the gently flowing Elbe, while behind you the crackling of the fireplace provides warmth in a cozy atmosphere. Fresh organic vital cuisine meets a unique view that will make your visit unforgettable.

Enjoy refined dishes made from regional ingredients, surrounded by an incomparable panoramic view of the Neustadt Valley, in a bright ambience that combines tradition and modernity.

When grinding the grain into the finest organic spelt flour and baking it in a historic wood-fired oven, you are up close and personal. Afterwards, taste cakes the size of a wagon wheel and fresh bread, right next to the babbling mill wheel under shady trees in the rustic mill beer garden.

Enjoy a fascinating journey through the world of spirits in a show distillery, where traditional craftsmanship and the use of natural, regional ingredients merge to create an incomparable taste experience. Discover certified products created with care and passion and let your senses be enchanted by the variety and purity of the flavors.

In just 4 hours and 15 minutes, this hike takes in spectacular views of Table Mountains and lets you marvel at the natural beauty of the Gotzing Cave, before the majestic Bear Stones fully reward your wanderlust.

Cycle through a picturesque landscape that runs along the Elbe River, past impressive rock formations, and through charming villages. Enjoy the gradient-free route, which is both relaxing and invigorating, with ample opportunities to admire breathtaking views and rest in stylish restaurants.

On a day trip from the town of Wehlen to the spa town of Rathen, a hiking trail unfolds that leads young adventurers and their families through wildly romantic nature. Passing the picturesque Bastei Bridge and the medieval Neurathen Rock Castle, this section of the Malerweg offers a captivating experience. Here, breathtaking views and historical sites combine to create an unforgettable journey of discovery.

Go 400 meters deep into dark passages, where a mystically glowing underground lake and the mysterious Mother of God Camp await. Experience a unique world underground, shine a flashlight through the hidden treasures and follow in the footsteps of the miners on an exciting gemstone hunt.

With tropical water temperatures up to 35 °C, a huge water surface, wave pool, giant slide, whirlpools and an extensive sports pool, this place offers an exotic break from everyday life. The bathing experience is complemented by a diverse sauna area with panoramic sauna, garlic sauna and a spacious sauna garden, where wellness & SPA with bathing ceremonies and massages await you by appointment.

Enjoy quiet moments and exciting water fun in a family-friendly ambience with a paddling pool, a large slide and water games. A volleyball court and a playground offer additional variety on land.

The Kleinstein is a popular climbing rock. Above there are two beautiful viewpoints; The Kleinsteinhöhle is the second largest rock gate in Saxon Switzerland after the cowshed. When visiting the Kleinstein and the Kleinstein Cave, there is no entrance fee to pay.

Through the Great Schrammtor you enter a world of spectacular sandstone cliffs that tower up in front of you with bizarrely shaped peaks and deep gorges. You climb the heights via iron ladders and narrow paths to enjoy a magnificent view over Saxon Switzerland from the vantage points, while the untouched nature around awakens your adventurous spirit.

Climb 451 meters high via rugged steps and iron stairs to be thrust into a far-reaching view that shows the Elbe Sandstone Mountains in all its facets. Let the mountain restaurant spoil you with regional dishes while you let your gaze wander over striking mountains, valleys and the shining Elbe Valley. In short, an adventure that challenges both the body and nourishes the soul.

After a short, intense climb over 290 steps, conquer the top of this 253-meter-high mountain and enjoy a first-class panoramic view of the Elbe Valley and Table Mountains. Unsecured terrain and narrow paths make up the adventure, while the morning sun slowly rises over the forest and promises spectacular sunrises. Surefootedness and good shoes are your ticket to an unforgettable panorama.

A narrow, high ledge gives you arguably the best view of the Bastei Bridge, perfect for stunning photographs. After a hike that arouses anticipation in you, you will reach this special viewpoint. Here, high above the Wehlgrund, you will experience a sunset behind the seven arches of the stone bridge - a sight that will remain in your memory forever.

On narrow bridges and secured climbs, you hike from rock to rock, explore the ruins of a formerly mighty castle complex and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Elbe Sandstone Mountains. A fascinating journey through time and an adventure at dizzying heights that combines history with the impressive nature of the region.

Various views are waiting to be explored by you: the view of the Gohrisch, the distant view of Königstein Fortress and especially the Barbarine - a spectacular rock needle and a popular photo motif.

Hike through unique terrain characterized by bizarre rock formations and lush forests until you reach a place where the views make your heart beat faster. Here, between Zuschendorf Castle and Kuckuckstein Castle, the untouched beauty of nature reveals itself to you in all its glory.

Walk across a 170-year-old sandstone bridge that spans a 40-meter-deep gorge with seven arches. Enjoy spectacular views of the Elbe Valley and the ruins of Neurathen Castle as you walk in the footsteps of medieval history.

If you want to pay a visit to a geological natural monument, the whirlpool holes are the place to be. Whirlpool holes are small "bowls" in the rock that have been washed out by a body of water. To find it, simply follow the Forellensteig from the exit of Zwiesel to the Zwiesel bridge.

Explore European ceramic history up close through exhibits and a tour of an open-fire furnace for stoneware and hard porcelain. Under professional guidance, you can create your own ceramic sculptures, surrounded by the picturesque idyll of a 340-year-old Umgebinde house.

Pass through an imposing, 24-meter-long rock gate, climb narrow steps of the Himmelsleiter between two rock faces, and discover traces of medieval castles. Take in breathtaking views and follow in the footsteps of farmers who once hid their cows from enemy soldiers here.

Climb, crawl and explore your way through unique sandstone formations, past narrow crevasses, over natural staircases and through hidden caves. A numbered course will take you through this natural labyrinth, where every age will find its own adventure. Clothes that can get dirty are an absolute must in this free, breathtaking playground of nature.

From the 23-meter-high Bismarck Tower, an unforgettable 360-degree panorama spreads out in front of you. Historic buildings of Dresden's old town lie at your feet, while on a clear day the view sweeps as far as Saxon Switzerland and the slopes of the Elbe in Radebeul with the Spitzhaus. Every Thursday to Sunday and on public holidays, the tower opens its doors free of charge to offer you this unique experience.

Hike through stunning sandstone formations that have been artfully sculpted by the power of nature. Marvel at the unique view of Saxon Switzerland as you climb the Affensteine & Schrammsteine on narrow paths and over iron stairs.

A walk will take you directly to this natural spectacle, the largest waterfall in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. In addition to an impressive water feature, a fairytale scenery awaits you with a small stone table and stools that could have come from a dwarf world. Follow the steps up and discover a hidden cave – an adventure that makes a flashlight indispensable.

Surrounded by the breathtaking backdrop of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, you rise to the Gohrisch and enjoy an incomparable panoramic view. Between jagged rock colossuses, supported by metal stepladders, you climb the last stage to the summit. There, a small wooden pavilion rewards you with an enchanting view over majestic table mountains and unique landscapes, a moment of peace and beauty, created for unforgettable memories.

Over narrow, dizzying footbridges you reach vantage points that reveal a gigantic panorama over the Elbe Sandstone Mountains to Dresden. The climb up steep steps is rewarded with spectacular paths, bridges and even a short ladder that lead to the impressive views of the surrounding landscape of Saxon Switzerland.

Immerse yourself in the time of the Middle Ages, surrounded by the majestic ruins of the Goßdorfer Raubschloss, reveals a place full of stories and secrets. Here, where knights and merchants once sought shelter, you walk in the footsteps of history and feel the former importance of this fortification for securing important trade routes.

After a challenging hike over rocks, ladders and stones, which is an adventure in itself, a panorama opens up to you at the Schrammstein viewpoint that will leave you speechless. The far-reaching view over the picturesque landscape with monumental sandstone formations, caressed by gentle breezes, offers unforgettable photo opportunities and moments of silence.

Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Bastei area, framed by the majestic Lilienstein in the background. High up on the viewing platform of the Lilienstein, a picturesque view of the Elbe reveals itself to you. The Wildschützensteig leads you to the Schrammstein view, where every step deepens the connection to nature.

Enjoy breathtaking views over the rocky and valley landscape of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, while the last rays of sunshine bathe the Lilienstein in a golden light. Two picnic benches invite you to linger - ideal for an unforgettable end to the day with provisions and a bottle of wine in hand.

In one of the largest layered joint caves in Saxon Switzerland, flashlights illuminate the 28-metre-long and up to 4-metre-high mysterious world of the thieves' cellar. Past electoral hunting parties left traces of their meetings at the stone table as you embark on a journey of discovery into the darkness.

Enjoy the taste of history with every sip of coffee, paired with Saxon sweets that are masterpieces of the art of baking. It's a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of the 18th century, where coffee was more than just a drink, accompanied by traditional treats such as Russian bread, Leipzig larks and the fragile Meissen fumble.

Immerse yourself in the magical world of traditional puppetry, where Max Jacobs Kasper comes back to life and takes you on a journey through cabaret, theater performances, and concerts. Here, craftsmanship and storytelling combine to create a unique cultural heritage, surrounded by the picturesque backdrop of Saxon Switzerland and the historic charm of Hohnstein.

Walk in the footsteps of the past in an impressive castle complex that towers over a picturesque valley. Enjoy the view from the observation tower, explore the spacious castle garden and immerse yourself in history through the exhibition rooms. Stay within historic walls surrounded by deep forests and rugged rocks, an experience made memorable by the absence of modern distractions such as Wi-Fi and television.

In frosty temperatures, a stylish bathhouse invites you to warm up your bones and soul with the scent of wood, panoramic saunas and hot hot tubs, accompanied by home-brewed beer.

Immerse yourself in the moving history of a place where nearly 15,000 people, mostly mentally disabled and concentration camp prisoners, lost their lives during the Nazi era. This place offers you the opportunity to explore a dark chapter of German history through exhibitions and the preserved structural remains and to honor the victims.

Float in warm brine thermal water, surrounded by gentle sounds and magical colored light projections in the Liquid Sound Temple. Enjoy a unique wellness experience that combines sound, colour and light while you relax in the spacious sauna area or let yourself be pampered with aqua wellness.

Glide in a historic tram along the sparkling Kirnitzsch River, past dense forest and impressive rock formations. This almost eight-kilometer journey takes you from the Bad Schandau spa gardens to the Lichtenhain waterfall, where you can enjoy the untouched nature of Saxon Switzerland from a very special perspective along the way.

Let yourself be fascinated by the tradition and craftsmanship of a mill that does not require any rubbish bins. Here you will experience first-hand how sustainability and conscious management are implemented in practice as you wander through the historic walls of the Max Bähr milling plant.

Let yourself be enchanted by the rustic atmosphere of the Rathewalder Mühle, where regional specialties and homemade delicacies await you directly on the Malerweg in a romantic valley.

Explore a miniature world where historic transportation travels through lovingly crafted landscapes, including steam locomotives, ships, and trams. Admire detailed replicas of well-known landmarks made of local sandstone, pilot a radio-controlled ship, or dig for gold in the miniature version of Saxon Switzerland, surrounded by a unique view and handicrafts in a demonstration workshop.

Browse a castle built from top to bottom, with horse stables on the 5th floor and a ballroom in the attic. Experience how the past mixes with the barley juice of the present in the historic brewing water fountain and walk through a baroque park through which a mountain stream flows.

Surrounded by the picturesque backdrop of the Polenz Valley, the idyllically situated Waldbad Polenz invites you to take a refreshing dive in crystal-clear waters. A solar pool gently warms the water, while the extensive sunbathing lawn and family-friendly facilities with a wide slide and paddling pool invite you to linger and enjoy.

Floating between heaven and earth, an over 100-year-old glass elevator takes you to a height of almost 50 meters, where a breathtaking view of the Elbe Valley and the majestic peaks of Saxon Switzerland awaits. Connected by a bridge to the forest, access opens up here to picturesque hiking trails and a cozy snack bar with a view that makes every adventurer's heart beat faster.

Over stairs, ladders and through rock passages, the path leads to the remains of a former fortification between the rocks of the Arnstein, where steps, petroglyphs and a deep cistern whisper the stories of knights and hidden treasures.

Wake up to the breathtaking sight of the sun rising behind the picturesque rocks of Saxon Switzerland and end the day as it sets behind the majestic Table Mountains – a sauna with a panoramic view offers you an unparalleled view that warms body and soul in equal measure.

Explore detailed replicas of Saxon-Bohemian Switzerland made of original Elbe sandstone, control radio-controlled ship models on the Mini-Elbe and experience historic trains on model lines, all on 8000 square meters.

Experience Saxon Switzerland from a different perspective. Accompanied by Thuringian forest goats, guided hikes to various sights take place. There is a lot of interesting information about the animals from goatherd Patrick Pietsch. Attentive companions can observe the social behavior of these intelligent animals.