Beyond Dresden

Saxon Switzerland

Even during the Romantic period, visitors were fascinated by the breathtaking beauty, the untouched nature and the unique scenery of Saxon Switzerland. Today, the National Park is one of the most popular destinations for excursions and the hottest photo motifs in Germany.

Elbsandsteingebirge

The Elbsandsteingebirge is a highlands area covering about 700 sq km. It extends across the upper reaches of the Elbe to Nordböhmen, Czech Republic. The German part is called Sächsische Schweiz (Saxon Switzerland), and the Czech range, Böhmische Schweiz (Bohemian Switzerland).

The Bastei

Probably the most famous rock formation of Saxon Switzerland offers a breathtaking view over the numerous sights of this region. Over the Bastei Bridge, you reach the Felsenburg Neurathen, which was once inhabited by robber barons. Combine your visit to the Bastei directly with a day trip through Saxon Switzerland. Numerous hiking routes take you to the most beautiful sights of this region.

Opening hours: Always open
Contact: Dresden Information GmbH | T +49 351 501 501

Königstein Fortress

Embedded in the picturesque rocky landscape of Saxon Switzerland, only 35 km from Dresden, the Königstein Fortress towers 241 metres above the Elbe. Unique in Europe, it presents fortress architecture in its development over 400 years. Castle, monastery, fortress, pleasure palace, state prison, prisoner-of-war camp: all of that was the Königstein. Today, in an area the size of 13 football fields, more than 50 buildings, neat cannons and well-tended green spaces attract half a million guests from all over the world every year.

Soldiers used to live here with their families like in a small town. Now numerous exhibitions illustrate everyday life in the past, with the large interactive permanent exhibition "IN LAPIDE REGIS – On the King's Stone" being particularly recommended. In addition to more than 500 exhibits, three-dimensional diagrams, lifelike figure installations and media stations tell the 800-year history of the Königstein.

In addition to authentic architecture and tangible history, the unique mountain fortress offers a fantastic panoramic view of the Elbe Valley. Thanks to the lift, it can be conquered effortlessly all year round.

Contact: Königstein Fortress gGmbH | 01824 Koenigstein | T +49 350 21 64607

Moritzburg Castle

August the Great is known for his desire to build. Aside from the Taschenberg Palace, which he built for his mistress, Anna Constantia, he also created the hunting lodge at Moritzburg. A mere 20 minutes’ drive from the hotel delivers you cleanly into the 18th century.

Feather Chamber
The castle Moritzburg holds the legendary Feather Chamber. The story goes that the bed was a present from the king of Spain. Therefore, it is assumed that Native American slaves collected feathers in excess over the course of generations.

The Leather wallpapers
Of the former 60 rooms, unfortunately, only 11 rooms lined with leather wallpaper could be preserved. Nevertheless, Moritzburg has the largest stock of baroque leather wallpapers in the world. These are gradually restored in precision work. Among other things, ancient mythology, especially Diana, the goddess of hunting, is depicted.

Trophy collection
Moritzburg has a long tradition. The Wettiner of the 16th century enjoyed their residence. When August the Great was in charge during the 18th century, he celebrated pompous festivals after a successful hunt. Moritzburg has one of the most remarkable collections of hunting trophies in Europe.

Bone china collection
What was once the dressing room of King August III has now been converted into an exhibition of fine bone china. Enjoy the beauty of this blazing white porcelain in the so-called Jägerturm.

The Park
Moritzburg is surrounded by a beautiful, romantic castle park. August the Great commissioned plans during his lifetime, which all followed the then modern French basic scheme. After his death, however, the garden could never be completed. The reconstruction of the park, which is being carried out by the Saxony State Office for Monument Conservation, is still being worked on today. By the way, did you know that Saxony’s only lighthouse can be found in the park around Moritzburg?

Meissen Porcelain Manufactory

Approximately 20 kilometres northwest of Dresden lies the district town of Meissen, where the vineyards along the Elbe valley can be observed. In addition to the historical old city centre, the Meissen porcelain produced in this area is considered a landmark of the town. It has been produced in the Meissen porcelain manufactory for over 300 years and still shines with its excellent quality. The blue crossed swords, which can be found on the bottom sides of the pieces, and the drawing of an onion pattern on the porcelain are known to be particularly famous.
The art of this fine craft is still held in high esteem centuries later. The manufactory invites everyone to visit the exhibits in the museum. If you are interested in going even one step further behind the scenes, you can experience the production of the porcelain with your own eyes. A guided tour through the show workshop of the manufactory is offered for this purpose.

Glashütte Watch & Clock Museum

A little over 20km south of Dresden lies the small town of Glashütte, famous for its watches. The town is considered a famous destination for any lover of the skilled craft of watchmaking. 
The best pieces of the "Glashütte Original" brand are presented in the centrally located watch museum. Interesting facts about timekeeping and an almost 180-year-old history are waiting for visitors here. Luxury and old tradition are combined in a unique way. Special exhibitions highlight famous models, individual time periods or important owners of Glashütte watches. The doors of the museum are open from Wednesday to Sunday for anyone who shows an interest in the high-precision art.