A very warm welcome to the Saxon Switzerland National Park region, one of the most spectacular natural landscapes of Europe, situated in the extreme southeast of Germany just a few miles away from the capital of Saxony: Dresden. This region’s scenery fascinates its visitors with its landscape variety including table mountains, elevated plains, cliff tops and rock needles, gorges, woods and the valley of the River Elbe.

Saxon Switzerland National Park Region

Saxon Switzerland is Germany’s only rock National Park. The landscape of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, eroded to picturesque rugged scenery of Cretaceous origin, provides a fascinating micro-climate and is home to a real treasure of rare animals and plant species.

 

© Sebastian Thiel

Hiking

Hiking and nothing but hiking – probably the greatest thing to do in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. The age-old natural landscape with its bizarre rock formations and its fascinating flora and fauna is one of the most enchanting hiking areas of Europe.

„Be prepared to see from now on an uninterrupted series of natural beauties and rarities, which increase in size, beauty and scope the further you go. The eye will have a feast for several days and so amply nourish mind and heart.”
Wilhelm Leberecht Götzinger (1804)
© Sliver | #232176249 | stock.adobe.com

Art and Culture

Festivals, theatres, exhibitions, museums, workshops: The variety of excellent art and culture options in Saxon Switzerland is impressive. In addition, it is only a short regional train trip to Saxony’s administrative and cultural capital Dresden with its world-famous heritage.

National Park and Landscape Protection Area

Waymarked hiking trails

Years of geological history

© Yvonne Brückner

Germany’s unique Rock National Park

An Eldorado for Hikers and Nature Lovers

#saechsischeschweiz

© Martin Göhring

Your pocket guide

for Saxon Switzerland

Our english brochure Discover Saxon Switzerland takes you on a journey through one of Germany’s most unique landscapes – the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.

On more than 30 pages, you’ll find inspiration, practical tips and hidden treasures: from the legendary Bastei Bridge and fortress Königstein to the 116 km long Malerweg trail and nostalgic rides on the Kirnitzschtalbahn.

The guide highlights must-see viewpoints, seasonal travel ideas, outdoor adventures like hiking, climbing and cycling, as well as regional delicacies and cultural gems. You’ll also find useful information on arrival, sustainable mobility, and a handy packing list for your trip.

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