Painter's Path

Spend the afternoon with a leisurely walk along the Elbe, then explore the charm of this picturesque town.

Hotel example: Rathener Hof

You’ll cross the Elbe on the "Flying Bridge" before ascending to the Rauenstein, a striking rock plateau offering sweeping views over the river landscape. After a relaxing break along the shore, the Painter’s Path leads you through quiet pine forests to the legendary Bastei, with its world-famous bridge and breathtaking viewpoints. From there, you’ll descend back to your hotel.

Hotel example: Rathener Hof

The walk begins in Amselgrund, leading up to the surrounding highlands and the summit of Hockstein. You then descend through the narrow Wolfschlucht into the idyllic Polenztal. A lovely forest path above the valley takes you directly through the core zone of the national park. Fantastic views await at the Brandbaude hut, where a traditional stop offers a charming experience. Those who prefer can take the bus down to the valley or continue on the trail to the National Park Railway station. The night is spent in the historic 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 Painter’s Path 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

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 opening onto the Pfaffenstein. From the observation tower, enjoy sweeping panoramic views. Wooden walkways lead you to the Barbarine, the region’s iconic landmark. Passing 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 Schloss Thürmsdorf, from where you return to your hotel via public transport.

Hotel example: Parkhotel Margaretenhof