Winter activities in Saxony

From winter walks to snow adventures

Winter sports and outdoor adventures

Winter is the perfect season to discover Saxony's landscapes at a slower pace. Crisp air, peaceful forests, impressive rock formations, and scenic viewpoints make the colder months ideal for hiking, leisurely walks, wellness breaks, and cosy days out in nature. Historic towns, castles, and mountain villages add to the unique atmosphere, while traditional inns invite visitors to enjoy regional cuisine and warm hospitality.

As the home of world-famous Christmas traditions, Saxony – the Land of Christmas enchants visitors with festive markets, handcrafted decorations, and charming villages illuminated by candle arches, Christmas pyramids, and twinkling lights.

When the snow falls, Saxony's low mountain ranges transform into a winter sports destination. The Ore Mountains, Vogtland, Upper Lusatia, and Saxon Switzerland offer excellent conditions for hiking, alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, sledging, snowshoeing, and other winter activities. Whether you're looking for family-friendly slopes, extensive trail networks, or simply a fun day in the snow, Saxony has something to offer throughout the winter season.

Experience thrilling winter adventures

On to the slopes, ready, go!

Winter hikes to choose from

Recommended cross-country ski trails

Best of sledging in Saxony

Discover Saxony's winter wonderlands

A rocky landscape covered in snow

Nature, traditions and winter magic

Oybin im Winter, Bahnhof der Schmalspurbahn

Winter wonderland where three countries meet

Aschberg bei Klingenthal im winterlichen Kleid im Vogtland

Panoramic walks through tranquil snow-covered landscapes

A rocky landscape covered in snow

Winter hiking in Saxon Switzerland

Winter in Saxon Switzerland

Saxon Switzerland is one of Saxony's best-kept secrets during the winter months. Towering sandstone cliffs, peaceful forests, and crisp, clear air create the perfect setting for unforgettable winter hikes. Bathed in the soft light of the low winter sun, the region's dramatic rock formations reveal a magical and almost mystical atmosphere just outside Dresden.

One of the most spectacular winter views awaits at the world-famous Bastei Bridge, where early risers can look out over the mist-covered Elbe Valley and the surrounding sandstone landscape. From late autumn onwards, even the most popular trails and viewpoints become wonderfully tranquil, while traditional mountain inns offer a warm welcome with cosy wood-panelled dining rooms and historic tiled stoves, the perfect place to relax after a day outdoors.

Winter hiking in Saxon Switzerland

In the footsteps of the Romantic painters

Walking the Painters' Way in winter

Discover the winter beauty of Saxon Switzerland along the famous Painters' Way (Malerweg). During the quieter months, the region reveals a particularly peaceful atmosphere, with dramatic sandstone cliffs, mist-filled valleys, and spectacular viewpoints. A collection of short winter walks, ranging from around 2 to 7 kilometres, highlights the best sections of the Painters' Way's eight stages, making it easy to experience the landscapes that have inspired artists for centuries.

One of the trail's highlights is the Caspar David Friedrich Trail, dedicated to Germany's most celebrated Romantic painter. In 1813, Friedrich spent several months in the region, where he found inspiration for masterpieces such as Wanderer above the Sea of Fog. Along the route, twelve information panels connect his original sketches and paintings with today's landscapes, allowing visitors to experience the scenery through the artist's eyes. Recognised as Germany's Most Beautiful Hiking Trail in the day-hike category, the Painters' Way offers a unique combination of nature, art, and cultural history.

Try these 3 walks on the Painters' Way

More winter walks on the Painters' Way

Charming national park resort

Schmilka, a magical winter village

Saxon Switzerland takes on a special charm in winter, when snow-covered landscapes and peaceful surroundings create a truly magical atmosphere. In the small village of Schmilka, the historic Schmilka Mill, dating back to 1665, becomes the heart of this winter wonderland. Lanterns, crackling fireplaces, and cosy interiors invite visitors to slow down and enjoy the season. At the mill's traditional restaurant, hearty regional dishes are served alongside craft beer brewed at the Schmilka Brewery, where guided brewery tours with the brewmaster are also available. Next door, the aroma of freshly baked bread from the historic bakery fills the air, adding to the village's warm and welcoming atmosphere. For a truly unique winter experience, treat yourself to a relaxing beer bath at the brewery's wellness area, where warm, beer-infused baths combine traditional brewing ingredients with soothing relaxation, the perfect way to unwind after a day exploring Saxon Switzerland.

More about winter in Schmilka

Winterdorf Schmilka – Mühlenhof im Bio und Nationalpark Refugium Schmilka — © Marko Doehring

Winter wonderland where three countries meet

Hiking in Upper Lusatia

Winter in Upper Lusatia

When tranquillity settles over picturesque villages with their beautifully restored traditional timber-framed houses, Upper Lusatia reveals a truly special winter charm. Especially when covered in snow, the region takes on a mystical and romantic atmosphere, with peaceful forests, rolling hills, legendary landscapes, and breathtaking viewpoints waiting to be discovered.

The Zittau Mountains invite visitors to experience winter at its most authentic, with scenic hiking routes, charming villages, and historic towns featuring Baroque churches, traditional timber-framed houses, and distinctive sundials. Whether exploring snow-covered trails, enjoying panoramic views, or simply taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside, Upper Lusatia offers unforgettable winter experiences.

When snow arrives, the region also becomes a destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for cross-country skiing, sledging, and other seasonal activities. Combined with regional traditions, cosy inns, and warm hospitality, Upper Lusatia is the perfect place for a relaxing winter escape.

Hochwald am Oberlausitzer Bergweg im Zittauer Gebirge - ein Wintermärchen — © Mario Kegel

Stunning panoramic views in winter

Upper Lusatian Mountain Trail

When tranquillity settles over idyllic villages with their beautifully restored traditional timber-framed houses, the Upper Lusatian Mountain Trail and the Zittau Mountains reveal one of Upper Lusatia's greatest winter treasures. Especially when snow covers the landscape, the region takes on a mystical and romantic atmosphere. Gentle hills, legendary landscapes, peaceful forests, breathtaking viewpoints, and charming villages with Baroque churches, traditional timber-framed houses, and historic sundials invite visitors to explore the region even on crisp winter days.

Premium winter hiking trail – 128 km through peaceful landscapes and cultural heritage

Seven stages featuring gentle hills, panoramic views, and traditional villages
Flexible hiking options – choose a multi-day adventure or individual winter stages
From Bischofswerda to the Zittau Mountains – discover romantic timber-framed villages like Waltersdorf, Jonsdorf and Oybin
Winter panoramas stretching towards the region where three countries meet (Germany–Czech Republic–Poland)
Easy access via the Dresden–Zittau railway line, ideal for planning individual stages

Winter hiking in Upper Lusatia means slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying wide-open landscapes away from the crowds – a hidden gem for anyone looking to experience the magic of the colder months.

More about the Upper Lusatian Mountain Trail

Winter moments in Upper Lusatia

© Mushroom Productions
© Lukas Voigt
© Anja Wauer
© Ditmar Damzog
© Rainer Weisflog
© TMGS / Dennis Stratmann
© Gemeinde Steinigtwolmsdorf

More about Upper Lusatia

Nature, traditions and winter magic

Hiking in the Ore Mountains

Ore Mountains

Winter hiking and
snowshoeing in a UNESCO World Heritage region

The Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) transform into a winter wonderland during the colder months. Snow-covered fields, frosted forests, and historic mining towns invite visitors to slow down and enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by nature. Whether on a classic winter hike or exploring snowy trails on snowshoes, the region offers the perfect opportunity to experience the winter landscape at your own pace.

Silence, the crunch of snow beneath your feet, and the crisp winter air turn every tour into an unforgettable nature experience in the UNESCO World Heritage “Erzgebirge/Krušnohoří Mining Region”.

During the Advent and Christmas season into the New Year, the Ore Mountains shine with traditional Schwibbögen (candle arches), Christmas pyramids, and beautifully crafted illuminated figures that transform towns and landscapes into a festive spectacle. In traditional workshops and factories, the region's famous craftsmanship continues to thrive. Historic mining towns, museums, and former mines provide a fascinating connection between Saxony's centuries-old mining heritage and its living traditions.

More about winter in the Ore Mountains

Our recommendations for Ore Mountains winter hikes

Panoramic walks through tranquil snow-covered landscapes

Hiking in the Vogtland

Vogtland

Hiking between nature and tradition

In winter, the Vogtland region reveals a special sense of tranquillity: gentle hills, wide meadow valleys, dense spruce forests, and historic villages nestled like islands in the snowy landscape. Between Klingenthal, Schöneck, and the upper Göltzsch Valley, winter hiking trails lead to panoramic viewpoints, peaceful moorland landscapes, and regions known for their musical heritage and natural diversity.

Winter hiking in the Vogtland is a peaceful experience for anyone who wants to discover the beauty of the season at their own pace and enjoy authentic moments surrounded by nature.

More about winter in Vogtland

Try these 3 Vogtland winter hikes

On to the slopes, ready, go!

Alpine skiing in Saxony

Alpine winter sports resorts in Saxony

Auf die Piste mit dem Lift in der Skiwelt Schöneck — © Archiv TVV / Marcus Dassler

Located in the Vogtland region, Skiworld Schöneck is Saxony's first certified family-friendly ski resort and an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts of all ages. With around 2 kilometres of slopes spread across six runs, ranging from easy blue pistes to more challenging red and black runs, the resort offers something for beginners as well as experienced skiers.

A panoramic chairlift provides comfortable access to the slopes, while sledging enthusiasts can make use of the magic carpet lift, which carries both riders and sleds back to the top. Ski lessons and equipment rental are also available, making Skiworld Schöneck the perfect place for a relaxed and enjoyable family day in the snow.

More about Skiworld Schöneck

Eine Gondel, ein Sessellift und ein Schlepplift fahren zum Fichtelberg hinauf. Darunter verläuft eine Piste. — © Rainer Weisflog

The spa town of Oberwiesenthal, Germany's highest town, welcomes visitors with the traditional miners' greeting "Glück Auf". Nestled in the Ore Mountains, it is home to Saxony's largest alpine ski resort, located just a short walk from the town centre.

The resort features 10 classified ski runs with a total length of around 15 kilometres, offering easy, intermediate, and advanced slopes for every skill level. A floodlit piste, fun park, and halfpipe provide extra excitement for winter sports enthusiasts, while younger visitors can enjoy "Fichtelchen's Kinderland", a dedicated children's ski area designed for fun and learning on the snow.

More about Oberwiesenthal

The ski slopes of Altenberg in the Ore Mountains promise plenty of winter fun for all the family. The resort offers a selection of easy and intermediate pistes, making it an excellent choice for beginners, families, and recreational skiers.

Skiers can reach the slopes by drag lift, platter lift, or double chairlift, while the surrounding winter landscape provides the perfect setting for an enjoyable day in the snow.

More about Altenberg

Kinderskischule — © Dirk Rückschloss, Pixore Photgraphy

Why not combine your ski holiday with a visit to the historic mining and embroidery town of Eibenstock, which can look back on more than 850 years of history? Located in the Ore Mountains, SkiArena Eibenstock offers excellent conditions for an unforgettable winter getaway.

An extra-wide, family-friendly ski slope and several lifts make the resort ideal for skiers of all ages and abilities. Beyond the slopes, the all-weather bobsleigh track and the Zipfelbob sledging run provide even more winter fun, making Eibenstock a fantastic family destination.

More about SkiArena Eibenstock

Winterspaß im Spielzeugdorf Seiffen — © Sportwelt Preußler

In Seiffen,a family-friendly 450-metre platter lift takes you comfortably to the summit of the Reicheltberg mountain, rising more than 740 metres above sea level. From the top, visitors can enjoy beautiful views across the Ore Mountains as well as access three ski runs with a combined length of more than 1,800 metres.

The varied slopes and relaxed atmosphere make this an excellent destination for families and leisure skiers looking to enjoy a day in the snow.

More about Seiffen

Recommended cross-country ski trails

Cross-country skiing in Saxony

Recognised “Excellent Cross-Country Ski Trail”

Cross-country skiing on the Erzgebirge - Vogtland Kammloipe

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cross-country skier, Saxony offers excellent conditions for both classic and skating techniques. One of the region's highlights is the Erzgebirge - Vogtland Kammloipe, a 36-kilometre trail stretching along the mountain ridge from Johanngeorgenstadt in the Ore Mountains to Schöneck in the Vogtland.

Recognised as an "Excellent Cross-Country Trail", the Kammloipe is considered one of Germany's most scenic and snow-reliable cross-country ski routes. Glide through snow-covered forests, enjoy the ever-changing mountain landscapes, and experience an unforgettable winter adventure for all the family.

Our cross-country ski trail recommendations

Open detail page 'Ridge trail Erzgebirge/Vogtland'
Archiv Tourismusverband Vogtland, Jürgen Strobel | CC0
Ridge trail Erzgebirge/Vogtland
Light traffic
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34.24 km
307 m
7:50 h
402 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
08261 Schöneck/Vogtland
Open detail page 'Schöneck - Family Trail'
Übersichtsplan: (C)T.Lenk | AI-optimized | CC-BY-SA
Schöneck - Family Trail
Light traffic
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1.34 km
13 m
0:15 h
13 m
Cross-country skiing · easy
08261 Schöneck/Vogtland
Open detail page 'Stoneman Miriquidi Snow'
Photoron Ronny Küttner, Erlebnisheimat Erzgebirge | CC-BY-SA
Stoneman Miriquidi Snow
Light traffic
Medium traffic
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Closed
134.79 km
1,900 m
27:30 h
1,890 m
Skiing · difficult
09484 Oberwiesenthal
Open detail page 'Sonnenloipe Klingenthal'
Archiv TVV, J. Bärthel | CC0
Sonnenloipe Klingenthal
Light traffic
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4.59 km
33 m
1:05 h
31 m
Cross-country skiing · easy
08248 Klingenthal/Sachsen
Open detail page 'Trails in the Sparkassen Skiarena Oberwiesenthal (Elite trails)'
© Studio2Media, Olympiaförderkreis - Leistungszentrum Oberwiesenthal e.V.
Trails in the Sparkassen Skiarena Oberwiesenthal (Elite trails)
Light traffic
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4.98 km
128 m
0:30 h
130 m
Cross-country skiing · difficult
09484 Oberwiesenthal
Open detail page '(Night) Trails Grünbach'
Archiv TVV/T.Peisker | CC-BY-SA
(Night) Trails Grünbach
Light traffic
Medium traffic
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12.15 km
127 m
2:39 h
145 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
08223 Grünbach
Open detail page 'Johanngeorgenstadt family trail'
Johanngeorgenstadt family trail
Light traffic
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4.24 km
80 m
2:08 h
80 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
08349 Johanngeorgenstadt
Open detail page 'Altenberg / Schellerhau - Osterzgebirge Circular Trail (L2)'
Tourist-Information Altenberg | CC-BY-ND
Altenberg / Schellerhau - Osterzgebirge Circular Trail (L2)
Light traffic
Medium traffic
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6.78 km
84 m
1:40 h
87 m
Cross-country skiing · easy
01773 Altenberg
Open detail page 'Local cross-country ski trail Seiffen'
© Archiv der TMGS, Rainer Weißflog, Touristinformation Seiffen
Local cross-country ski trail Seiffen
Light traffic
Medium traffic
Heavy traffic
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10.44 km
165 m
2:50 h
255 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
09548 Seiffen/Erzgebirge

NEW highlight for cross-country skiing fans

Stoneman Miriquidi Snow

If cross-country skiing is your preferred winter sport, Saxony has a very special challenge in store for you!

The "Stoneman Miriquidi Snow" adventure offers a good 81 miles of perfectly prepared cross-country ski trails, taking you through the Ore Mountains in Saxony and over the border into the neighbouring Czech Republic. You will follow the route of the legendary Stoneman Miriquidi mountain bike tour, through snow-covered forests and magnificent winter landscapes – stunning views guaranteed!

Facts & Figures:

81.25 miles
4 stages
2,000 metres of elevation gain

Our tips

Sledging in Saxony

Sledging resorts in Saxony

Rodeln am Kegelberg / Erlbach im Vogtland — © Archiv der Stadt Markneukirchen

The Tannenmühlberg sledging slope in Erlbach is a favourite destination for families looking to enjoy a classic winter day outdoors. Situated directly next to the Vogtland's Kegelberg ski area, the gentle slope offers ideal sledging conditions for children and grown-ups alike. Sledges can be hired on site, making it easy to enjoy the snow without bringing your own equipment. Surrounded by the Vogtland's peaceful winter scenery and with cosy places for snacks and a warm drink nearby, Tannenmühlberg is the perfect spot for relaxed family fun in the snow.

More about Erlbach

The Vogtland's Skiworld Schöneck is a fantastic destination for families looking to enjoy a fun day in the snow, featuring a gentle 200-metre sledging slope – perfect for children and beginners. A handy magic carpet lift takes both sledgers and their sleds back to the top so that fun on repeat is possible without the uphill climb. With beautiful panoramic views, a welcoming family atmosphere, and nearby cafés and winter activities, Skiworld Schöneck is an ideal place for a memorable sledging adventure.

More about Skiworld Schöneck

Rodelspaß am Fichtelberg — © Rainer Weisflog

In the Ore Mountains resort Oberwiesenthal, the Fichtelberg mountain offers one of Saxony's most exciting sledging experiences: a 1.74-kilometre natural sledging run starts on the Fichtelberg plateau, winding its way down through snow-covered spruce forests and combining gentle sections with thrilling bends before finishing near the Eschenhof mountain lodge. Visitors can reach the starting point by cable car, chairlift, or car, making it easy to enjoy multiple runs. For younger children, a separate 160-metre family sledging slope near the Panorama Hotel provides a safe and fun alternative.

More about Fichtelberg

Kind rodelt im Winter — © Egbert Kamprath

The Altenberg holiday region in the Ore Mountains offers plenty of opportunities for a fun-filled day of sledging. Several natural sledging slopes, including family-friendly runs in Geising, Rehefeld, Schellerhau, and Zinnwald, provide exciting descents for children and adults alike. Many of the slopes are easily accessible and are perfect for combining with a winter walk through the snowy landscape. With its reliable snow conditions and beautiful mountain scenery, Altenberg is an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy classic winter fun in Saxony.

More about Altenberg

Where winter sports history is made

Where international ski jumping stars come to compete

Sparkasse Vogtland Arena

Sparkasse Vogtland Arena in Klingenthal is one of the world's most modern ski jumping facilities and a venue where winter sports history continues to be made. Training takes place throughout the year, attracting many of the world's best ski jumpers. Thanks to the hill's outstanding design, athletes can adapt to the conditions more quickly than at many other ski jumping venues, making it a favourite location for international training and competition.

The arena's 35-metre-high tower with its striking panoramic viewing capsule is not only an architectural landmark but also the stage for FIS Ski Jumping World Cup events and other international competitions. As athletes launch into the air and spectators hold their breath, visitors experience the excitement, precision, and passion that make winter sports in the Vogtland so unforgettable.

© Vogtland Arena Vermarktungsgesellschaft mbH
© Vogtland Arena Vermarktungsgesellschaft mbH
© Jan Simon Schäfer
© J&J Media GmbH
© Jan Simon Schäfer

Experience world-class sport in the Ore Mountains

Altenberg and Oberwiesenthal

In Oberwiesenthal and Altenberg, promising young talents and world-class athletes train and compete at the highest level in biathlon, ski jumping, Nordic combined, bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge.

The Altenberg Bobsleigh and Skeleton Track in the Ore Mountains is considered one of the most demanding ice tracks in the world. But it's not just elite athletes who can experience the thrill: visitors can ride as a passenger in a guest bobsleigh, try ice tubing, or test their aim and endurance during a guest biathlon experience at the nearby biathlon arena.