Viewpoints at Painter's Path

A scenic route

Most beautiful viewpoints

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Where Sandstone Spires Meet FLAT-TOPPED Mountains

The Painter’s Path inspires at every stage of the journey with its spectacular variety of landscapes. It’s hard not to marvel at the thought that nature created these rock formations and viewpoints entirely on its own—you might almost think a sculptor had been at work here. Before we reveal the most beautiful viewpoints and why they’re so worth seeing, let’s first take a look at the route.

Panoramic view from the hiking trail into the valley

Fantastic trails through the Elbe Sandstone Mountains

Your Eurohike adventure kicks off in Pirna and leads you first to the spa town of Rathen, where the famous Bastei Bridge awaits. Next, a loop hike takes you to the Rauenstein, a striking flat-topped rock formation. The following day, you’ll cross highlands into the heart of the national park, continuing by train to Bad Schandau. Another loop follows, packed with highlights like the Affensteine rock formations and the Lichtenhain Waterfall. Airy pine forests and views stretching all the way into Bohemian Switzerland accompany you on your way to the spa town of Gohrisch. Before long, you’ll tackle the ascent to the Papststein and enjoy a well-earned break in a "Baude"—a traditional mountain lodge typical of the region. The final stage leads you to the Barbarine, the iconic rock pinnacle of Saxon Switzerland, and on to the imposing Königstein Fortress, the largest fortress complex in Europe. Finally, you’ll return to your starting point in Pirna, filled with unforgettable impressions and experiences from this incredible hiking tour.

If you’re among the lucky ones who can experience this journey on our 9-day itinerary, you’ll discover all of these highlights firsthand. For those with a bit less time, the Painter’s Path is also available as a 7-day tour.

Hiker with blue backpack and trekking poles standing on rocky outcrop at Gohrisch viewpoint, overlooking forested landscape with fields.

The Most Beautiful Viewpoints

Bastei Bridge

The legendary Bastei Bridge is one of the most iconic photo spots along the Painter’s Path—and it’s easy to see why. Towering sandstone formations rise dramatically on both sides, so close it feels like you could reach out and touch them. This unforgettable highlight greets you right at the start of the journey from Pirna to Kurort Rathen. As you stroll across the bridge, step back in time and imagine the artists who once settled here, capturing these striking landscapes in their paintings and works of art.

Lilienstein

A new day brings a new viewpoint. This loop tour from Kurort Rathen first leads up to Rauenstein, where sweeping views greet you before the trail descends back to the Elbe’s edge. Ready for a final, slightly more active challenge? Then it’s time to climb the striking Lilienstein rock formation. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking vistas over the Elbe’s dramatic bend. Our Christina from Product Management was truly captivated by the wide-open, Insta-worthy scenery. Now it’s time to recharge—best enjoyed at a traditional “Baude”.

Hiker with blue backpack on Lilienstein viewing platform overlooking forested valley and villages under dramatic cloudy sky on Malerweg trail.

Panoramic view from Lilienstein rock formation showing the Elbe River winding through forested valleys toward Königstein under a cloudy sky.

Schrammsteine

Near Bad Schandau, the Schrammsteine offer an awe-inspiring panorama of almost otherworldly sandstone spires. With names like Dickwanst, Furz, Affenwand, and Kuhstall, there’s plenty of room for imagination—and a few playful comments along the way. A winding ridge trail guides you through this maze-like landscape to the Affenstein Promenade, where countless scenic spots invite you to capture the unmistakable backdrop of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.

Schrammsteinblick on the Malerweg trail with the Eurohike backpack

Historic Passenger Elevator Bad Schandau

High above Bad Schandau, a viewing platform offers sweeping panoramas across the Elbe Valley all the way to Lilienstein in the distance. This time, the ascent is especially comfortable, thanks to the historic passenger elevator, built in 1904 in Art Nouveau style. At just around two euros, the ticket is a true bargain compared to the incredible views waiting at the top.

Hiker with blue backpack on viewing platform of Bad Schandau historic elevator, overlooking Elbe River valley with town and forested hills.

Panoramic view of the town of Wehlen with the cyclists' church

The Cultural Treasures of the Painter’s Path

The Painter’s Path isn’t just a paradise for hikers—it also offers plenty for culture lovers. On the loop tour near Bad Schandau, you’ll not only take in the breathtaking panorama of the Schrammsteine but also enjoy a ride on the historic Kirnitzschtalbahn through the romantic valley back to the Elbe at the end of the day. Architecture enthusiasts will be captivated by the Bauernbarock Church in Schöna. Take a seat on the over-300-year-old pews and let the intricate sacred woodcarvings impress you. Right at the start of your journey, a stroll through the historic old town of Pirna is well worth it. From Sonnstein Castle, you can enjoy wonderful views over the town and the surrounding hills of Saxon Switzerland. The town of Wehlen welcomes you directly on the banks of the Elbe, right at the edge of the national park, making it the perfect starting point for your adventure.

White church with dark tower and clock in Reinhardtsdorf. Stone cross in foreground, green lawn and trees frame the building under blue sky.

Hiker with blue backpack and trekking pole viewing sandstone cliffs and forest from Affensteinpromenade on the Malerweg trail.

Papststein

From the Elbe River, the trail climbs steeply from Kurort Gohrisch up to Papststein. At the summit, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views across both the Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland regions. At the traditional “Baude” on Papststein, a well-earned treat awaits: whether bratwurst with sauerkraut or a hearty solyanka, everything tastes even better on the sunny terrace with its far-reaching, picturesque views.

Gohrisch

Gohrisch, a flat-topped mountain located just a short distance from Papststein, impresses with a full 360-degree panorama. To the east, your gaze falls on the Schrammsteine; to the north, Lilienstein rises dramatically; and to the west, the rolling heights of the Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) come into view.

Pfaffenstein

Adventurous paths and steep steps lead through the famous rock gateway known as the “Nadelöhr” straight up to Pfaffenstein—a highlight of the stage from Kurort Gohrisch to Pirna. Along the southern edge of this flat-topped mountain rises the striking Barbarine, the iconic symbol of Saxon Switzerland and a favorite photo spot. Don’t miss this view: the slender rock pinnacle soars about 140 feet into the sky, and together with the expansive, forest-fringed landscape, it offers a panorama well worth the climb.

Königstein Fortress

Visit one of Europe’s most impressive hilltop fortresses: Königstein Fortress. Perched high on the eponymous flat-topped mountain, it stands as a striking witness to centuries of military history. More than 50 historic structures—from massive bastions and sacred buildings to ancient wine cellars—make the site a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. Diverse exhibitions take you on an exciting journey back in time to the 13th century.