--- title: "Hiking in Saxony ♥ The most beautiful hiking trails" url: "https://www.visitsaxony.com/things-to-do/nature-and-activity/hiking/All/offset%253A0/offset%253A10" description: "Explore Saxony's most beautiful hiking trails: from Saxon Switzerland to the Ore Mountains. Perfect for active breaks in nature. Discover tours now!" language: "en" breadcrumb: "Root > Home > Things to do > Outdoor and active holidays > Hiking" --- Hiking in Saxony ================ Discover the region's most beautiful hiking routes Hiking bliss: from rugged landscapes to enchanting vineyards ------------------------------------------------------------- Saxony is an exceptionally diverse hiking destination, offering an impressive variety of landscapes within a compact area. From the spectacular rock formations of and the dense forests of the to the volcanic hills of and the vineyards of , every region has its own unique character. Whether you're looking for a challenging full-day hike or a leisurely walk surrounded by nature, you'll find well-marked trails for every level. Saxony boasts an excellent hiking infrastructure with many routes awarded the "Wanderbares Deutschland" quality trail certification. **Iconic long-distance trails** such as the Painters' Way (*Malerweg*) and the Erzgebirge-Vogtland Ridgeway (*Kammweg Erzgebirge–Vogtland*) are musts for hiking enthusiasts. On this page, you'll find inspiration for planning your next adventure, including detailed information on **Saxony's 7 most beautiful hiking trails** – from the award-winning Caspar David Friedrich Trail to scenic panoramic routes through the Vogtland and Upper Lusatia. Saxony is a rewarding destination in every season. In winter peaceful landscapes and crisp air create ideal conditions for relaxing walks, while families can enjoy unforgettable outdoor experiences on . Lace up your boots and discover Saxony's most beautiful landscapes at your own pace. - At a glance 1\. 2\. 3\. 4\. 5\. 6\. 7\. - **NEW:** - the new adventure for hikers and trail runners. Conquer epic, cross-border trails between Germany and the Czech Republic in the stunning Ore Mountains. More hiking experiences in Saxony By region Saxony's 7 most beautiful hiking trails --------------------------------------- - - - - - - - ### Saxon Switzerland #### \#1 Painters' Way (Malerweg) The king of hiking trails Just 45 minutes from Dresden, your adventure begins in Germany’s only national park featuring rock formations. The 116 kilometer long (*Malerweg*) takes you through the spectacular rocky landscape of **Saxon Switzerland**, past the Bastei Bridge, Königstein Fortress and the Rathen Rock Theatre. In 2026, the Painters' Way celebrated its 20th anniversary. Since 2006, it has been delighting hikers across eight stages. To mark the anniversary, 20 new short walks, exhibitions and creative activities were created and a ready for you to explore. Where artists such as **Caspar David Friedrich** once found inspiration, you can now experience wild and romantic nature, deep gorges and breathtaking views. On historic Romantic-era paths, you’ll discover, step by step, what makes the Painters' Way one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Germany: a perfect blend of art, history and the natural environment. - ##### Painters' Way facts and figures - **Start/Finish:** Pirna ↔ Stadt Wehlen ↔ Hohnstein ↔ Schmilka ↔ Königstein (8-stage circular route through Saxon Switzerland) - **Total length:** 116 kilometres (8 stages ranging from approx. 11 km to 18 km) - **Difficulty:** moderate (some challenging sections with inclines and rocky steps) - **Best time to visit:** April to October (ideal weather conditions), but possible all year round with the right kit - **Highlights:** historic artists’ trails, spectacular sandstone formations, the Bastei Bridge, Königstein Fortress, the beautiful small village Schmilka and varied landscapes along the route - **Suitable for** hiking enthusiasts of moderate fitness, nature and culture lovers, multi-day long-distance hikers ##### Painters' Way in stages #### \#2 Caspar David Friedrich Trail Hiking in the footsteps of a Romantic painter On the , you can follow in the footsteps of the famous painter through **Saxon Switzerland**. The landscape inspired Caspar David Friedrich to create his world-famous works. Experience the motifs typical of the Romantic era up close, including striking cliffs, sweeping valleys and mystical lighting effects. Information boards combine the natural environment with art history, bringing the painter's visual worlds to life. Anyone completing the roughly 15 kilometre day hike, voted Germany’s “Most Beautiful Hiking Trail 2025”, will find themselves standing on the *Kaiserkrone*, the very rock that served as the pedestal for the world-famous “Wanderer above the Sea of Fog” painting. - ##### Caspar David Friedrich Trail facts and figures - **Start/Finish:** circular route starting from Krippen (Bad Schandau), and returning to the starting point - **Total length:** approx. 15 kilometres - **Difficulty:** moderate (easy to moderate with a few inclines) - **Best time to visit:** April to October (ideal weather conditions), possible all year round with the right kit, best in spring and autumn - **Highlights:** cultural-historical themed trail following in the footsteps of Caspar David Friedrich, featuring 12 information boards and panoramic views such as those from the *Kaiserkrone* and *Wolfsberg*, voted Germany’s “Most Beautiful Hiking Trail 2025” - **Suitable for** day hikers, art and culture enthusiasts, sportive families ### Ore Mountains • Vogtland #### \#3 Erzgebirge-Vogtland Ridgeway Hiking with a sense of adventure Setting off in the Eastern Ore Mountains, the takes you through more than 800 years of Saxon mining history right into the heart of the . Celebrating its **15th anniversary** in 2026, each of the 17 unique stretches of the Erzgebirge–Vogtland Ridgeway (*Kammweg Erzgebirge-Vogtland*) continue to inspire hikers with their diverse landscapes and outstanding trail experience. Along the way, hikers will find a range of things to see and do. In **Seiffen**, they can meet the town's famous wooden toy makers. Olbernhau provides insights into the region's former copper mining industry. There are views to enjoy from the **1,215-metre-high Fichtelberg in Oberwiesenthal** or the history of German space travel to be explored in Morgenröth-Rautenkranz. And much more… - ##### Erzgebirge-Vogtland Ridgeway facts and figures - **Certified** “Wanderbares Deutschland” quality hiking trail - **Start/Finish:** Geising (Ore Mountains) ↔ Blankenstein (Thuringia) - **Total length:** approx. 287 kilometres (17 stages) - **Difficulty:** moderate to challenging (long stages, some steep climbs) - **Best time to visit:** May to October - **Highlights:** varied low-mountain landscape with dense forests and panoramic views, links to the Rennsteig and Frankenweg trails, the spa town of Oberwiesenthal with the Fichtelberg, and the toy village of Seiffen - **Suitable for:** long-distance hikers, fans of multi-day hikes ##### Erzgebirge-Vogtland Ridgeway in stages Find the tour that suits you ### Vogtland #### \#4 Vogtland Panorama Trail® Hiking fun with picture-perfect views Here comes a picture-perfect circular route: the starts and ends at the imposing **Göltzschtal Bridge**, the world’s largest brick arch bridge. Along its 235 kilometres, you can look forward to sweeping views, idyllic valleys and towns steeped in tradition. Divided into manageable stages, the trail leads through the diverse landscapes of the region, passing historic spa towns, scenic reservoirs and the renowned “Musicon Valley”, famous for its long tradition of musical instrument making. A varied trail for nature lovers with an appreciation for culture and craftsmanship. - ##### Facts about the Vogtland Panorama Trail®: - **Certified** “Wanderbares Deutschland” quality hiking trail - **Start/Finish:** circular route (no fixed starting point, e.g. Göltzschtal Bridge in Mylau) - **Total length:** approx. 235 kilometres (12 stages) - **Difficulty:** medium - **Best time to visit:** May to October (ideal weather conditions), accessible all year round with the right equipment - **Highlights:** more than 80 panoramic views, cultural and historical attractions, the Saxon state spas of Bad Elster and Bad Brambach, Plauen, Morgenröthe-Rautenkranz, and a varied landscape featuring hills, valleys and meadows - **Suitable for** hikers of moderate fitness, nature and landscape enthusiasts ### Upper Lusatia #### \#5 **Upper Lusatian Mountain Trail** Stunning views guaranteed The long-distance (*Oberlausitzer Bergweg*) winds its way over 128 kilometres through the border triangle of Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic in the **Zittau Mountains**. The trail links panoramic peaks such as Lausche, Hochwald and Valtenberg with quaint villages, sandstone cliffs and tranquil forests. On **paths that are largely unspoilt, winding through majestic landscapes**, you’ll discover the region’s typical **half-timbered houses** and meet **warm-hearted hosts** who’ll treat you to regional cuisine. The **varied stages** are ideal for anyone looking for active days, peaceful relaxation and authentic discoveries. On the , you won’t just be going for a walk – you’ll be enjoying an experience close to nature, with **panoramic views guaranteed** and fascinating cultural sights to discover. - ##### Upper Lusatian Mountain Trail facts and figures - **Certified** “Wanderbares Deutschland” quality hiking trail - **Start/Finish:** Neukirch (Butterberg near Bischofswerda) ↔ Zittau (Zittau Mountains) - **Total length:** approx. 128 kilometres (7 stages) - **Difficulty:** medium - **Best time to visit:** March to October (ideal weather conditions), possible all year round with the right equipment - **Highlights:** Upper Lusatian hill scenery, panoramic views from the peaks, Oybin Monastery and Castle, Stone Zoo in the Zittau Mountains, Butterfly House in Jonsdorf, Zittau Narrow-Gauge Railway, Herrnhut stars, Zittau - **Suitable for** long-distance hikers, nature lovers and leisurely walkers ### Dresden Elbland #### \#6 Saxon Wine Trail A feast for the senses The takes you from Pirna through the Saxon Elbe Valley, home to passionate winemakers for more than 850 years. With every step through the tall, vine-covered hills, your gaze wanders to the table mountains of the **Elbe Sandstone Mountains** behind Pirna, to the vineyard church in **Pillnitz**, to the famous old town skyline of Dresden with its Baroque buildings, to **Albrechtsburg Castle** and **Meissen Cathedral**, or down to the wide floodplains on the banks of the Elbe towards **Diesbar-Seusslitz**. - ##### Saxon Wine Trail facts and figures - **Start/Finish:** Pirna → Radebeul → Meissen → Diesbar-Seusslitz (along the Elbe River) - **Total length:** approx. 90 kilometres (6 stages of approx. 15–18 km each) - **Difficulty:** easy to moderate - **Best time to visit:** April to October (the vine blossoming and harvest seasons are particularly attractive) - **Highlights:** vineyard slopes along the Elbe Valley, fine dining at historic wineries, numerous viewpoints and wine taverns during the grape harvest, towns such as Dresden, Meissen, Radebeul and Pirna, Wackerbarth Castle - **Suitable for** leisurely walkers, wine lovers, families and culture enthusiasts ##### Hiking trails in the Dresden Elbland region ### Leipzig Region and Chemnitz. Zwickau. Region. #### \#7 Luther Trail In the footsteps of the Reformation Stretching over **564 kilometres**, the is a spiritual circular route through the most beautiful landscapes of central Germany. It links churches, monasteries, castles and towns closely associated with the work of **Martin Luther** and his companions – from Leipzig via Torgau and Grimma to Eilenburg, Leisnig and Bad Düben. Along quiet forest, field and riverside paths, you’ll experience not only history but also vast heathland, floodplains and charming old towns. Thanks to flexible starting points and rail connections, the route is ideally suited to hiking in stages or weekend pilgrimage tours. - ##### Luther Trail facts and figures - **Start/Finish:** variable (e.g. Leipzig, Torgau, Grimma or Bad Düben) - **Total length:** approx. 564 km (circular route, stages can be planned flexibly) - **Difficulty:** medium (T2) - **Best time to visit:** March to October - **Highlights:** sites of the Reformation, St Thomas’ Church in Leipzig, Torgau, the ruins of Nimbschen Abbey, Rochlitz Castle, Gnandstein Castle - **Suitable for** travellers seeking peace and mindfulness, active pilgrims, and leisurely day hikers Comparison of Saxony’s hiking trails ------------------------------------ Saxony's most beautiful hiking regions -------------------------------------- On the road with the Romantics ### Saxon Switzerland **Saxon Switzerland** is a paradise for walkers who want to experience spectacular natural scenery and cultural history. The winds its way for around 116 kilometres through the wild and romantic rocky landscape of the **Elbe Sandstone Mountains** – past table mountains, unspoilt forests and picturesque viewpoints. Over eight stages, visitors follow in the footsteps of the Romantics, who found inspiration and wonder here. Those looking for a shorter walk should try the , just 15 kilometres long but rich in history and atmosphere. Information boards display original sketches that the artist produced here. Both routes lie in the heart of the Saxon Switzerland National Park – a place that combines nature, tranquillity and a sense of artistry to create a unique hiking experience. - Hiking with a sense of adventure ### Ore Mountains The **Ore Mountains** captivate visitors with their forested hills, crisp mountain air and boundless views. The is among the “Top Trails of Germany” and stretches for 287 kilometres along the historic Saxon-Bohemian border. Over 17 day stages, walkers experience a fascinating blend of nature, culture and panoramic views. Gentle slopes alternate with mountain meadows, reservoirs and sweeping views stretching all the way to the Bohemian Basin. Along the way, museums and show workshops recount the history of centuries-old mining traditions – now recognised as the **UNESCO World Heritage site** . Those who set out on the **Erzgebirge-Vogtland Ridgeway** will encounter not only impressive landscapes, but also proud people who have shaped their homeland through mining, craftsmanship, music and tradition. Walkers can look forward to a genuine chance to slow down and enjoy authentic encounters in the heart of Saxony. - **NEW:** - the new adventure for hikers and trail runners in the Ore Mountains! Get ready for your Stoneman experience and discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ore Mountains Mining Region. Available until the end of October this year – or start planning your adventure for 2027! - Of music and magnificent views ### Vogtland The **Vogtland region** combines time-honoured craftsmanship with unspoilt nature. Along the 235-kilometre-long , certified as a “Wanderbares Deutschland” quality trail, the idyllic route winds its way through forests, moors and valleys, featuring more than 80 panoramic viewpoints. The iconic near Greiz serves as both the starting point and the finish. Romance awaits walkers on the , a trail featuring river landscapes and villages. Nature lovers will particularly enjoy the circular walk around the **Zeulenroda Dam** – idyllic, rich in water and an invitation to simply let time stand still. - Volcanic cones and half-timbered houses ### Upper Lusatia Amidst volcanic cones, orchard meadows and historic villages, **Upper Lusatia** reveals itself at its most beautiful. The region is characterised by its unique half-timbered log houses – a blend of half-timbered and log cabin architecture that is found nowhere else in such abundance. The **Upper Lusatia Mountain Trail** stretches 128 kilometres in seven stages from Western Lusatia to the Zittau Mountains, past basalt hilltops, valleys and dense forests. Those hiking north of Dresden will discover unspoilt villages, old trade routes and magnificent viewpoints along the **Gräfenhain Hiking Route K**. Highlights include the railway viaduct over the Pulsnitz Valley and the viewing tower on Keulenberg mountain. A region brimming with history, nature and the joy of discovery – perfect for leisurely walkers. - Hiking routes by difficulty level and length -------------------------------------------- From short walks to adventures lasting several days – in Saxony, you’ll find the perfect hike to suit every pace and every level of ability. Easy walks, family-friendly trails, accessible routes and challenging hikes all invite you to actively experience nature. Guided walks and bookable activities round off the experience. ### Easy walks lasting less than 2 hours ### Moderate hikes lasting less than 4 hours ### Challenging routes & multi-day tours ### Walking trails for families - Frequently asked questions about hiking holidays ------------------------------------------------ Expand allCollapse all - Is it possible to combine hiking holidays in Saxony with cultural activities?Absolutely! There are numerous walking routes that lead straight to castles, palaces and UNESCO sites. Ideal combinations include hiking in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains combined with a visit to Dresden, or a pilgrimage in the Ore Mountains combined with a cultural visit to Chemnitz. - Is my dog allowed to join me when hiking in Saxony’s national parks?Dogs are very welcome in Saxony’s national and nature parks, but must be kept on a lead to protect wildlife, particularly in Saxon Switzerland National Park and in protected areas such as the Zittau Mountains. - Are there multi-day hiking tours through Saxony that include luggage transport?Yes, on many long-distance hiking routes, including the Painters' Way, the Upper Lusatian Mountain Trail, the Vogtland Panorama Trail® and the Erzgebirge-Vogtland Ridgeway, regional providers offer route planning and luggage transport services. This allows you to hike without a care in the world and enjoy nature and culture at a leisurely pace. - Which hiking routes are suitable for experienced ramblers?The "Himmel und Hölle" trail and the “Ridge walk on the Schrammsteine” in Saxon Switzerland offer challenging routes. A good level of fitness and sure-footedness are essential, and they are **not suitable** for children and dogs. - Are there any child-friendly adventure trails in Saxony?Yes, Saxony offers plenty of family-friendly walking routes – such as the forest adventure trail in Hinterhermsdorf, themed trails in the Ore Mountains, or discovery trails to see the beavers in the Leipzig region. Certified accommodation providers make family holidays particularly stress-free. - Where can I find maps and GPX tracks?Discover the full variety of hiking trails across Saxony on visitsaxony.com. Each route includes detailed information and practical tips, such as distance, difficulty level, elevation gain, highlights and points of interest. Maps, GPX tracks and tour data are also available for download to help you plan your next hiking adventure. - How many days should I allow for a hiking holiday in Saxony?A hiking holiday is best enjoyed over three to seven days. That way, you can enjoy multi-stage hikes, explore highlights such as castles or villages, and sample the local cuisine without having to rush. - When is the best time of year for a hiking holiday in Saxony?The ideal time for hiking in Saxony is between May and October. In spring and autumn, you can look forward to pleasant temperatures, valleys in bloom and stunning panoramic views. Winter hikes are particularly appealing in the Ore Mountains, the Vogtland and Saxon Switzerland. - Which premium hiking trails are there in Saxony?Saxony is home to the following premium hiking trails: - Erzgebirge–Vogtland Ridgeway - Upper Lusatia Mountain Trail - Gräfenhain Walking Trail - Heide-Biber Trail - Vogtland Panorama Trail® - Elsterperlenweg® - Zeulenroda Reservoir Trail - “Höhensteig” Circular Trail, Klingenthal The Painters' Way in Saxon Switzerland is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Germany. - Where’s the best place to go hiking in Saxony?Saxony's most beautiful hiking regions include Saxon Switzerland, home to the famous Painters' Way, the Ore Mountains with the Erzgebirge-Vogtland Ridgeway as well as the Vogtland and Upper Lusatia. Each region offers well-signposted trails, diverse landscapes and welcoming places to eat and drink along the way. Everything you need when hiking in Saxony Practical tips for your hiking holidays --------------------------------------- - **Getting there & getting around** Want to enjoy a relaxing hike without a car? No problem in Saxony! Take advantage of **hiking buses**, the **National Park Railway** in Saxon Switzerland and **regional visitor cards** that include public transport. They provide convenient access to some of the region's most beautiful trailheads and make it easy to plan one-way or multi-day hikes without having to return to your starting point. It's a practical and environmentally friendly way to explore Saxony's landscapes. - **Finding your way made easy** In Saxony’s hiking areas, **coloured markings** guide you safely to your destination: a **yellow dot, a blue line or a green arrow** – each symbol shows the way. The signposting is comprehensive and well maintained. We also recommend hiking apps such as **Outdooractive** for digital maps and GPS tracks. That way, you’ll always stay on the right track. - **Smart timing** Set off early in the morning or make the most of the **golden light** in the late afternoon. That way, you’ll avoid the rush at the popular hotspots and experience Saxony’s natural beauty to the full, almost entirely to yourselves. Wandern im Zittauer Gebirge // Hiking in the Zittauer Mountains - **Hiking-friendly accommodation** Saxony offers a wide range of **hiking-friendly accommodation** – from cosy guesthouses and hotels to holiday flats. Many hosts cater specifically for hikers and offer packed lunches, drying rooms or **luggage transport** for multi-day tours. - In **Saxon Switzerland**, thanks to the “Gästekarte mobil” regional visitor card, you can hike the Painters' Way starting from just one accommodation – perfect if you don’t want to pack up every day. More information at . - In the **Ore Mountains**, Seiffen is certified as a family-friendly town and an ideal starting point for hikes. Highlight: the Schwartenberg where hiking fun and woodcraft go hand in hand. - In the **Vogtland** region, Schöneck stands out as a family-friendly destination with the “Mossmännleinspuren” children’s hiking trail, a youth hostel, a bike park and Ecki’s Discovery World – perfect for active families. - **Nature conservation and safety** Help protect Saxony's natural landscapes by staying on marked trails, taking your litter with you and keeping a respectful distance from wildlife. Protected areas, such as Saxon Switzerland National Park, have specific regulations, so be sure to check them before your visit. In case of emergency, dial 112 – the European emergency number, which is available throughout Saxony. Winter hiking in Saxony ----------------------- As soon as the first snow falls, Saxony’s low mountain ranges become the ideal destination for . Whether on trails through snow-covered forests or on snowshoes across untouched slopes, you’ll experience the crisp winter air with particular intensity. Between the Fichtelberg in Oberwiesenthal and the bizarre rock formations in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, you’ll find routes to suit every ability. Panoramic tours in the **Zittau Mountains** and hikes along the **ridges of the Ore Mountains and the Vogtland** are particularly popular. Even without snow, these regions offer charming routes for long walks. After a brisk walk in the cold, numerous **mountain inns** invite you to stop for a bite to eat and warm up with regional specialities. - More inspiration for active holidaymakers -----------------------------------------