Explore Saxon Switzerland on foot during winter, hiking through dramatic sandstone gorges, forests and riverside villages. Discover the peaceful Elbe Mountains and uncover Germany’s quieter, scenic side.
- Panoramic views over Elbe Valley
- Historic Ostrau lift experience
- Enchanting Lichtenhain waterfall
- Dramatic Kuhstall rock arch
- Hikes through sandstone formations
- Optional Bastei Bridge hike
This winter walking holiday leads you along peaceful trails between quaint villages and striking landscapes. Highlights include the dramatic Kuhstall arch, panoramic Ostrau lift views, and the tranquil Lichtenhain waterfall. There's an optional final-day hike to the famous Bastei Bridge, offering a memorable finish to this scenic journey.
Enjoy cosy accommodation and traditional Saxon hospitality each night, with luggage transferred between accommodations. Snow is possible throughout the winter, with the heaviest fall typically in January and February, when depths may reach up to 20cm.
Hiking poles are recommended for added stability, and crampons are rarely required. Expect peaceful paths, rich cultural touches, and crisp winter air on a rewarding adventure through this lesser-known gem of Eastern Germany.
If you're looking to explore this breathtaking area during spring to autumn, discover our Trails of Old Saxony trip.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrive in Bad Schandau
Upon arrival at your preferred airport, Dresden, Prague or Berlin, make your way independently to the spa town of Bad Schandau, nestled beside the Elbe River. This charming town is the gateway to Saxon Switzerland National Park.
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Day 2: Hike from Bad Schandau to Schmilka
Begin with a ride on the historic Ostrau Lift, offering sweeping views over the Elbe Valley.
Hike through quiet forest trails and past sandstone cliffs to the picturesque village of Schmilka, known for its timber-framed houses and organic bakery.
Return to Bad Schandau by train.
Walking distance: 11 km | Ascent: 230 m | Descent: 260 m
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Day 3: Lichtenhain & Kuhstall circular walk
Take the Kirnitzschtal tram to Lichtenhain Waterfall and begin a loop walk through wooded valleys and rocky outcrops. Reach Kuhstall, a huge natural rock arch once used as a medieval hideout, and enjoy impressive winter views.
Return to the waterfall and take the tram or bus back to your hotel.
Walking distance: 16 km | Ascent: 560 m | Descent: 560 m
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Day 4: Walk to Gohrisch via Krippen & Lilienstein views
Leave Bad Schandau and head to the riverside village of Krippen. Follow the Gohrischer Folgenweg trail into a landscape of forested ridges and sculpted rock towers.
Enjoy views of the flat-topped Lilienstein and pass through the unique "Empire of Stones" en route to your accommodation in Kurort Gohrisch.
Walking distance: 13 km | Ascent: 390 m | Descent: 240 m
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Day 5: Cunnersdorf to Katzstein hike
Start the day in the village of Cunnersdorf and ascend through pine forests to rocky viewpoints. Pause at Spitzstein and Schneebergblick for superb views over the possible snow-covered Elbe Sandstone range, including the Schrammsteine and Hoher Schneeberg.
The walk continues to Katzstein, a dramatic rock formation with slender spires and sheer walls.
Walking distance: 9 km | Ascent: 285 m | Descent: 285 m
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Day 6: Optional Bastei circular walk & departure
Make your way to the airport or your onward travel destination. If you wish to stay longer, it's possible to extend and add additional nights in Germany - contact us should you wish to organise this.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to visit Rathen and enjoy a final walk to the famous Bastei Bridge, dramatically perched among sandstone pinnacles above the Elbe River. The route continues via Rathewalde, before descending back to Rathen.
Walking distance: 9 km | Ascent: 120 m | Descent: 120 m
Price and Other Information
- Duration and price excluding international flights: 6 days from £659 per person
- Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 6 days from £889 per person
- Single room supplement: From £190
- Walking grade: Easy to Moderate
- Guiding: Self-Guided
- Max alt: Low
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When to go: View Dates & Prices
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Route map:
View map 
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What’s included
- Hotel x 5 nights
- 5 breakfasts & 5 dinners
- Luggage transfers
- Route notes & GPS files
Next Steps
| Year | Daily Departures† | Price From (Exc. Flights) | Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| All prices are per person. † Daily departures subject to availability. | |||
| 2026 | From 1 Nov to 16 Dec | £659 | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | From 2 Jan to 31 Mar | £659 | Book or Enquire |
If you can’t see the holiday or departure date that you are looking for please contact us. We may be in the process of finalising further departures and are often able to arrange a holiday for you according to your own requirements.
