Königstein: Hike to the Lilienstein
- 3:00 h
- 6.62 km
- 470 m
- 470 m
- 114 m
- 411 m
- 297 m
- Start: Königstein Ferry Terminal, Saxon Switzerland
- Destination: Königstein Ferry Terminal, Saxon Switzerland
Königstein Ferry – Sellnitz – North Ascent – various lookout points – return via the South Descent – Königstein Ferry
Good to know
Pavements
- Unknown (1%)Asphalt (5%)Gravel (18%)Trail (16%)Path (60%)
Best to visit
- suitableDepends on weather
Directions
- The unmissable Lilienstein is the only table mountain on the right bank of the Elbe (viewed downstream) in the Saxon Switzerland National Park. It is visible from many vantage points in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains and stands out right next to the Königstein. Only the Elbe separates these two monumental mountain giants.
Not even Augustus the Strong could resist climbing it. An obelisk from 1708 still commemorates the monarch’s memorable visit to the summit. The ascent from the Elbe Valley is short but strenuous. In return, you’ll be rewarded with a fantastic panoramic view from the summit plateau.
The starting point of your hike is the town of Königstein. The ferry will take you to the other side of the Elbe to the Halbestadt district. Follow the blue line as a marker. Right between the houses, a very steep footpath leads upward. The trail continues with a gentle incline along the Kirchweg at the edge of the forest and along the steep slope of the Elbe. This brings you to Sellnitz, an old hermitage.
In the meadow, there are numerous nature-themed stations. Swap your cell phone for a “tree phone” for a moment, or feel the different soil textures on the barefoot trail. You’re sure to find a spot here for a picnic to recharge your energy for the climb.
Now the trail gets significantly steeper. The northern ascent to the Lilienstein is short but challenging, leading uphill over stone steps and iron ladders close to the rock face. On the expansive summit plateau, a loop trail with steps, ladders, and grating leads to numerous breathtaking views in all directions. Whether it’s the view toward Rathen and the Bastei to the north, toward Königstein Fortress and the Pfaffenstein to the south, or eastward, across Bad Schandau and the Elbe River to the Schrammsteine and the Zirkelstein.
A mountain inn and two historic obelisks are also located on the summit plateau. Downhill, the less steep southern descent winds through the forest. A dirt road takes you to the Hotel Lilienstein. To the right behind its parking lot, the hiking trail leads downhill toward the Königstein Ferry.
Tour information
Loop Road
Stop at an Inn
Summit
Directions & Parking facilities
- Getting there
Take the B172 by car to the roundabout in Königstein.
ParkingThere is a parking lot at the Königstein roundabout and along the Elbe River, as well as on the road toward Bielatal.
Public transportationArrival/Departure:
- Takethe S1 S-Bahnto Königstein
- Bus line 241, stop: Königstein Reißigerplatz
Additional information
Literature
Order Now: Hiking Guide
Author
Yvonne Brückner
Organization
Tourismusverband Sächsische Schweiz
License (master data)
Yvonne Brückner
Author´s Tip / Recommendation of the author
- The hiking trail is not suitable for dogs.
It requires children and older people to be in good physical condition.
Safety guidelines
- Please note: In the Saxon Switzerland National Park, only marked trails may be used in the core zone! Violations may result in fines.
Map
Buy here: Hiking map
Download GPX file