Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
Printed route
directions
Follow in the footsteps of the Romanticists as you explore the rugged rock landscapes of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. From Bad Schandau this circular route takes you through the enchanting world of the Saxon Switzerland National Park. Enjoy endless vistas from the heights of these unique rock formations and plateaus, while passing through the picturesque valley along the Elbe River. Visit a wealth of iconic landmarks such as the Bastei Bridge near Rathen, Konigstein Fortress, and the Pravčicka Brana rock arch in Bohemian Switzerland, Europe's largest natural stone bridge.
Formed over millions of years, the Saxon Switzerland National Park showcases bizarre rocks, mysterious gorges, and table-mountain features; found nowhere else in such density. Divided into two sections on the right bank of the Elbe, the smaller section encompasses the spa town of Rathen, while the main section extends from Bad Schandau eastward to the Czech border, where it connects with the Bohemian Switzerland National Park.
This area was first explored by the Romanticist artists of the 19th Century including Casper David Friedrich and Ludwig Richter who were captivated by the wild scenery of the Saxon-Bohemian border. The route now known as the Malerweg Trail (Painter's Way) was inspired by the same walks they took on their travels. Our route closely follows this trail, winding through one of Europe's most breathtaking landscapes, featuring forests, open fields, rocky peaks, and picturesque valleys, a unique blend of nature, art & history.
This trip features well maintained and waymarked trails. Surefootedness is essential for navigating stony paths, narrow passages and rocky terrain, particularly in wet or slippery conditions. Certain paths traverse cliff edges and some sections require climbing ladders or ascending steep stone steps. If you do struggle with vertigo, you may find this challenging. There are ascents and descents every day which make this a slightly more demanding holiday than the distances suggest.
Arrive in the charming spa town of Bad Schandau which is nestled along the banks of the Elbe River and is the gateway to the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.
You stay at Hotel Elbresidenz.
Hotel Elbresidenz, Bad Schandau
Mastercard
Visa
Pool
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Safe
This historic row of buildings situated directly on the banks of the Elbe River in Bad Schandau dates from 1617 and has long impressed visitors. After reunification, these former hotels fell into decline, worsened by severe flooding in 2002. A major renovation restored their grandeur, merging them into the elegant Hotel Elbresidenz. Boasting an expansive wellness area including swimming pool, finnish sauna, herbal & steam baths and experience showers. A range of treatment options are also available (payable locally).
Featuring 207 rooms with a comfortable and stylish design, featured rooms take in views of Bad Schandau market square or the atrium and are equipped with telephone, TV, Wi-Fi, safe, minibar and private bathroom.
Ascend to the scenic Brand viewpoint, also known as the 'Balcony of the Saxon Switzerland'. From here you'll enjoy sweeping vistas of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains with their distinctive rock formation, the Elbe River Valley and many lush forests. Continue to the Hohnstein Fortress, perched high on its rocky plateau. The final stretch of today's walk leads you through picturesque ravines and forests, passing the enchanting Amsel Lake, arriving at the traditional spa town of Rathen, located at the foot of the world-famous Bastei Bridge.
Breakfast & Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Hotel Elbschlosschen.
Hotel STEIGER Elbschlosschen, Rathen
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Tea/coffee
Situated on the edge of the tranquil spa town of Rathen, Steiger Hotel Elbschlösschen offers a peaceful stay while keeping you close to the region’s highlights. The iconic Bastei viewpoint is just a 30-minute walk away. After a day of exploring, unwind in the wellness area, complete with a large pool, sauna and a relaxing terrace.
Today we recommend an early start, so that you can enjoy the Bastei Bridge and its breathtaking views of the Elbe River Valley, along with the Table Mountains of Saxon Switzerland in relative tranquility. Continue your journey through the Hollengrund and Wehlener Grund to the charming town of Wehlen. Here you'll cross the Elbe River by ferry (payable locally) and soon you will arrive at the Rauenstein rock formation. At its summit, enjoy breathtaking views including the iconic Bastei Rocks. Return to Rathen for a relaxing evening at your hotel.
Breakfast & Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Hotel Elbschlosschen.
Hotel STEIGER Elbschlosschen, Rathen
MastercardVisaPoolWiFiTVSafeTea/coffee
Situated on the edge of the tranquil spa town of Rathen, Steiger Hotel Elbschlösschen offers a peaceful stay while keeping you close to the region’s highlights. The iconic Bastei viewpoint is just a 30-minute walk away. After a day of exploring, unwind in the wellness area, complete with a large pool, sauna and a relaxing terrace.
After an overnight stay in Rathen, ascend through Weißig to the renowned Konigstein Fortress. Among the largest and most impressive hilltop fortresses in Europe, the site combines spectacular views with over 800 years of history. Passing through the village of Konigstein, you follow tranquil forest trails to the Pfaffenstein, home to the iconic rock pinnacle 'Barbarine.' At the summit, explore multiple viewpoints offering impressive panoramas of the surrounding landscape, including Konigstein Fortress and Lilienstein Mountain. Your route then follows the Muselweg path leading you to the spa town of Gohrisch.
Breakfast & Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Quartier 5.
Quartier 5, Gohrisch
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This charming country inn situated in the heart of Gohrisch blends tradition with modern comfort. The casual ambience invites you relax at the heart of the hotel which features the lobby, café and bar. The Cucina restaurant offers the opportunity to indulge in many high-quality culinary delights including regional dishes such as Rathmannsdorf trout.
All rooms have been designed to reflect the five basic elements of nature: earth, fire, wood, water and metal meaning each room has its own unique charm. Rooms are equipped with TV, Wi-Fi, safe and private bathroom with hairdryer.
Today's walk takes you from Gohrisch to Lilienstein, the most prominent table mountain in Saxon Switzerland. Rising proudly above the landscape, the Lilenstein has a striking silhouette and offers wonderful Elbe Valley views from its plateau. Take your time to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery before continuing on your circular route back to Gohrisch.
Breakfast & Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Quartier 5.
Quartier 5, Gohrisch
MastercardVisaHairdryerWiFiTVSafe
This charming country inn situated in the heart of Gohrisch blends tradition with modern comfort. The casual ambience invites you relax at the heart of the hotel which features the lobby, café and bar. The Cucina restaurant offers the opportunity to indulge in many high-quality culinary delights including regional dishes such as Rathmannsdorf trout.
All rooms have been designed to reflect the five basic elements of nature: earth, fire, wood, water and metal meaning each room has its own unique charm. Rooms are equipped with TV, Wi-Fi, safe and private bathroom with hairdryer.
Crossing fields and meadows, you ascend to the top of the Table Mountains Gohrisch (448m) and Papststein (451m). Along the way, you'll pass the intriguing Kleinhennersdorfer Hohlen (caves) and traverse the scenic Liethen Valley before reaching Krippen, your destination for the day. Take the ferry (payable locally) across the Elbe River back to Bad Schandau.
Breakfast & Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Hotel Elbresidenz.
Hotel Elbresidenz, Bad Schandau
MastercardVisaPoolHairdryerWiFiTVMinibarSafe
This historic row of buildings situated directly on the banks of the Elbe River in Bad Schandau dates from 1617 and has long impressed visitors. After reunification, these former hotels fell into decline, worsened by severe flooding in 2002. A major renovation restored their grandeur, merging them into the elegant Hotel Elbresidenz. Boasting an expansive wellness area including swimming pool, finnish sauna, herbal & steam baths and experience showers. A range of treatment options are also available (payable locally).
Featuring 207 rooms with a comfortable and stylish design, featured rooms take in views of Bad Schandau market square or the atrium and are equipped with telephone, TV, Wi-Fi, safe, minibar and private bathroom.
- This morning you'll take the ferry (payable locally) across the Elbe to the start of your walk. After a leisurely start along forest paths, you'll climb to the heavily jagged Schrammstein rocks and ridge. Your efforts will be rewarded with one of the most famous views in Saxon Switzerland National Park. Continue on forest paths, following the Affensteig and Malerweg trails to Lichtenhain waterfall. From here you take the bus or famous historic Kirnitzschtalbahn tram back to Bad Schandau (payable locally).
Breakfast & Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Hotel Elbresidenz.
Hotel Elbresidenz, Bad Schandau
MastercardVisaPoolHairdryerWiFiTVMinibarSafe
This historic row of buildings situated directly on the banks of the Elbe River in Bad Schandau dates from 1617 and has long impressed visitors. After reunification, these former hotels fell into decline, worsened by severe flooding in 2002. A major renovation restored their grandeur, merging them into the elegant Hotel Elbresidenz. Boasting an expansive wellness area including swimming pool, finnish sauna, herbal & steam baths and experience showers. A range of treatment options are also available (payable locally).
Featuring 207 rooms with a comfortable and stylish design, featured rooms take in views of Bad Schandau market square or the atrium and are equipped with telephone, TV, Wi-Fi, safe, minibar and private bathroom.
Depart Bad Schandau after breakfast.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £320.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
Twin-bedded rooms are only occasionally available. Alternatively, Double rooms are booked which feature one bed base with two mattresses/duvets. These are also known as 'Austrian Twins' and are regarded as two beds.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into your destination. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
Printed route
directions
