Saxon Switzerland National Park

Bizarre rock formations and mighty table mountains dramatically flank the valley of the Elbe River. Saxon Switzerland is one of the most exceptional landscapes in Europe. What is perceived as a mountain range today was once the bottom of the sea. When the Swiss painters Adrian Zingg and Anton Graff who lived in Dresden came to the Elbe Sandstone Mountains looking for beautiful landscape motifs at the end of the 18th century, they were reminded of their home and soon referred to the region as Saxon Switzerland. The landscape magically attracted Romantic painters as well. Their traces can be found all the way along the Malerweg hiking trail. Saxon Switzerland, which became a national park just before the German Reunification, offers numerous possibilities for hiking and climbing trips. It is still one of Germany’s greatest tourist attractions, just as it was during the 19th century. This is especially true for the rock formation called “Bastei” or “Bastion” with its famous bridge and the panorama restaurant of the “Berghotel Bastei” that offers a unique view. A long time ago a hiking guide wrote down what is still valid today: “Such high emotions are poured into the soul! In eternity one stands, without really grasping it, finding it almost impossible to break away from this spot.”