Nature and Fairy Tales in Saxon Switzerland

Getting lost in the landscapes of Europe: a new dream, awakened since our return from our sabbatical year. And what beautiful discoveries since then: the natural reserves of Finland, Sweden, Spain, Serbia... and Germany. Heading to the Eastern mountains with our first stop in Saxony, also known as Saxon Switzerland.

After a first stay in Saar in June, we decided to repeat the experience while changing the scenery. We're going a bit higher and heading east for a week-long road trip. Two major regions to explore: Saxony and Bavaria.

Saxony... I had no idea! So we're off to an eastern region of Germany, and in this eastern region, we arrive directly... all the way east, in Saxon Switzerland (Sächsische Schweiz), at the border with the Czech Republic.

Why this region? Why travel all the way across Germany to touch the Czech border with our feet? One reason only: its landscapes! Dense forests, contrasting reliefs, sandstone rocks jutting out among the trees, and a blue Elbe winding through valleys and cliffs...

Several times during this stay, we remarked that these landscapes seemed created for children. A sort of imaginary land, filled with forests to hide in, rocks to build climbing fortresses, and pirate dens carved into the rock...

Shall I take you along?

There are plenty of activities in the region. Nature, of course, but also cultural. Here are 6 ideas of things to see, do, and experience in Saxon Switzerland.

And there are plenty of peaks to climb in the region: around 1100 sandstone rocks are accessible for both budding and experienced climbers.

With an instructor, we started on easy paths at first, then moved on to more complex ones for those wanting to take on the adventure, while leaving easier pathways for those who didn't feel ready. In short, everyone has their own pace: and that's important! The feeling of confidence was the link between my instructor and me. A feeling that allowed me to tackle a more complicated path that I would probably not have dared without his encouragement:

And regardless of the path taken, at the summit, the same reward for all: an unbeatable view of the forest stretching beneath us, dotted here and there by other rocky fungi. Summit ritual: we shake hands, congratulate each other (in German!), and sign the little guestbook hidden under a rock and protected from the elements in a metal box.

A wonderful experience that allows you to discover the region from a new angle while having fun and pushing your limits.

Location: we climbed at the Bielatal site - Ottomühle Website: Kletterschule Lilienstein (with English-speaking instructors)

One of the European paradises for hiking: 1200 kilometers of trails through forests, lush valleys, and rocky peaks. Perfect for a lovely walk in Gohrisch and Papstein, between carved rocks and splendid views of the region.

Ramparts that dominate the landscape, the Königstein Fortress (in German Festung Königstein) is the highest fortress in Europe. While some visit for its military history (an undefeated fortress, high-security prison, refuge for the royal family of Saxony) and exhibits, it's mostly the view that brought us here.

A beautiful panorama unfolds for hikers along the ramparts, with views of the forest, sandstone rocks, and boats on the Elbe.

Address: Festung Königstein (Königstein Fortress), 01824 Königstein Fee: €10 (€8 from November to the end of March) Opening hours: from 9 am to 6 pm (until 5 pm from November to the end of March) Website: Festung Königstein

Its magical aura lived up to my expectations! Rising before dawn, we drove to the Bastei Bridge site to catch the first rays of sunlight caressing the stones of this mythical bridge. A place where you feel connected to time, history, and nature. One of those sunrises that I cherish as a precious gift and am unlikely to forget.

Address: 01847 Lohmen/Bastei From the parking lots, walk to the hotel complex and then follow the signs to the viewpoint on the bridge and the bridge itself.

Boarding a boat that is part of the oldest and largest fleet of steamboats in the world? Yes, please! To the resounding sound of its whistle, a peaceful journey begins to the sound of the Elbe's gentle lapping.

Our route: Bad Schandau - Hrensko - Bad Schandau, watching a landscape filled with peaceful valleys, walkers and cyclists waving along the river, rocky cliffs, and picturesque houses. The best moment? The return under the last rays of the sun!

Boat Company: Sächsische Dampfschiffahrt Access ticket and boarding on the river side behind the Elbresidenz hotel Cruise duration we took (Schrammstein tour): 1 hour 30 minutes Fee: €16

This road trip, which was supposed to be our first journey of a long series, began on my birthday. A double celebration then, between my birth and the start of this sabbatical leave, which we celebrated in a hotel by the Elbe. A hotel fit for a castle, particularly remembered for its sophisticated cuisine, beautiful spa and relaxation area... and the almond croissants at breakfast!

Address: Hotel Elbresidenz an der Therme Bad Schandau, Markt 1-11, 01814 Bad Schandau

In the second region of Germany where we get lost in nature, our second crush... and it's not over yet!

Coming soon: the continuation of our road trip with the discovery of the Berchtesgaden region in Bavaria.

In partnership with the German Tourism Office for the campaign > and the Saxony Tourism Office .

To continue reading

The Call of Nature Nature Road Trip in Saar: Information and Good Addresses Other road trip ideas in Europe: Corsica - Jura Mountains - Centro de Portugal Other nature travel ideas in Europe: Finnish Archipelago - Brittany - Cantabria - Serbia