The ascent to the Pfaffenstein can be done easily with children from the age of four, but even parents will feel the ups and downs in their bones afterwards. But the tour rewards them with fantastic views and a detour to the famous Barbarine.
Start at the car park at the foot of the Pfaffenstein. A straight path leads uphill from here to the foot of the rock. There it is a sweaty path up via the "Nadelöhr". (Those who like it easier, however, can also opt for the comfortable ascent along the right. However, the many stairs and steps of the eye of the needle are better suited for an ascent than a descent).
At the top, after a short break, you should turn left at the next junction, where the breathtaking view of the Gohrisch and the Papststein awaits. Back on the main trail, continue until you reach a turnoff that leads to the "Opferkessel", a cauldron-shaped depression that was probably formed during the last Ice Age. Here again a wonderful panorama reveals itself.
Back on the hiking trail, the route continues to the inn on the Pfaffenstein with its observation tower. There you can take a break and enjoy the delicious food and drinks on offer.
Thanks to good signposting, the path to the Barbarine is easy to find from this cosy resting place. After numerous steps and a dark crevice, the view opens up to the "Stone Virgin". Now walk back in the direction of the inn and then turn left at the first junction, down the gorge path. It finally leads back to the starting point.
All in all, a moderately difficult circular hike, very varied with wonderful panoramic views.
