Painter's Path

Wander the charming streets of Pirna’s historic old town and visit Sonnenstein Castle. From above, take in sweeping views of the town and the rolling hills of Saxon Switzerland.

Hotel example: Pirnscher Hof

Transfer by bus across the Elbe to the starting point of the Painter’s Path. Stroll through the peaceful Liebethal Valley, following shaded paths and crossing sunlit plateaus to reach Lohmen, the gateway to the national park. From there, descend into the Uttewalde Valley and pass through the famous rock gate. After a riverside rest, the trail winds through pine forests up to the legendary Bastei, featuring its iconic bridge and breathtaking viewing platforms.

Hotel example: Rathener Hof

Cross the Elbe on the “Flying Bridge" and then ascend to the Rauenstein, a striking rock plateau offering sweeping views. The trail winds through forests from the Königsnase down to the Elbe at Obervogelgesang, where a short train ride provides a convenient return. For those with more stamina, the final highlight is the commanding Lilienstein, a rock formation that offers breathtaking views of the Elbe meander and a traditional mountain hut for a well-deserved refreshment.

Hotel example: Rathener Hof

In the Amselgrund, the trail starts toward the surrounding plateaus and ascends to the Hockstein summit. From there, you descend through the narrow Wolfschlucht into the idyllic Polenztal. A scenic forest path winds above the valley, passing directly through the core zone of the national park. Spectacular views await at the Brandbaude hut, where a traditional stop for refreshments is highly recommended. The trail then continues to the National Park Railway station, from where you return to the valley. Overnight stay is in the charming spa town of Bad Schandau.

Hotel example: Elbhotel Bad Schandau

You’ll ascend the Schrammsteine via steep steps, rewarded with breathtaking views of striking, unique sandstone pinnacles. The ridge trail winds through a twisting rock labyrinth, past the Affenstein, and descends into the valley to the Lichtenhainer Waterfall. From there, the Malerweg climbs to the impressive Kuhstall rock cave. Finally, relax on a scenic ride back along the Elbe through the Kirnitzschtal on the historic tram.

Hotel example: Elbhotel Bad Schandau

Take the bus that takes you directly to the national park. Follow scenic trails through open pine forests to the traditional Zeughaus, a perfect spot for a refreshment break. From there, a climb up to the Goldstein viewpoint offers sweeping vistas that reach all the way to Bohemian Switzerland. The trail continues via the Großer Winterberg, the region’s highest point, before leading to the charming eco-village of Schmilka. Finally, cross the Elbe by ferry and complete the day with a bus or train ride to the spa town of Gohrisch.

Hotel example: Parkhotel Margaretenhof

A short train ride brings you to the Czech border. From the Elbe’s edge, you climb to the high plateau, passing through charming villages along the way. Don’t miss the ornate Bauernbarock Church in Schöna—a delightful hidden gem. After a steep ascent to the summit of Papststein, the hut at the top provides an ideal spot to rest. You then continue past the striking Gohrisch, a classic sandstone peak, across the high plateau, and onward to the spa town of Gohrisch.

Hotel example: Parkhotel Margaretenhof

The final stage takes you up steep steps through the Nadelöhr rock passage onto the Pfaffenstein. The observation tower rewards you with spectacular views over the surrounding landscape. Following wooden walkways, you reach the Barbarine, the region’s iconic landmark. Past the Diebeshöhle, the trail continues to Königstein, where a climb to the fortress, the largest in Europe, offers truly unforgettable views. Your route ends at Thürmsdorf Castle, from where a short ride on public transport brings you back to Pirna.

Hotel example: Pirnscher Hof