Rathen & Surroundings

From idyllic hiking trails over culture and history to wellness – Rathen and the Elbe Sandstone Mountains offer something for everyone. On this page you will find the most beautiful destinations in our region in a comprehensive list.

Our day trip highlights.
There is something for everyone:

Hiking on the idyllic Malerweg trail

The Malerweg is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Germany and attracts tourists from all over the world. With its spectacular combination of bizarre rock formations, green forests and picturesque valleys, the Malerweg offers unforgettable views and photo opportunities. The well-signposted route allows visitors to explore the beauty of the region at their own pace.

The entire circular trail stretches over 116 kilometers and leads directly through the spa town of Rathen. We offer suitable rooms for overnight stays, which you can also book for one night. You can book luggage transportation on the tourist website of Sächsisch-Böhmische-Schweiz.

Bastei and Bastei Bridge

Above Rathen rises the Bastei rocks – probably the most famous tourist destination in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. The rock massif was once part of the Neurathen fortress, the remains of which can still be visited. The world-famous Bastei Bridge runs right through the rocks. It was built in 1851 and is up to 194 meters high. But not only the bridge offers a breathtaking view of the Elbe and the surrounding rocks, but also the new viewing platform (opened in 2023) and many other panoramic points offer unique views on the mountain landscape of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. There are countless hiking routes around the Bastei. We recommend the classic Bastei hike from Rathen via the Bastei to Wehlen.

Rowing and strolling on Lake Amselsee

With its idyllic location and clear, turquoise-blue water, Amselsee is a popular destination for nature lovers. Take a relaxing walk along the water and enjoy the breathtaking view of the lake and the surrounding landscape. For active vacationers, the Amselsee offers opportunities for boating, kayaking and stand-up paddling. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck here and hope to catch trout, pike or carp. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity and beauty of nature and let Lake Amselsee enchant you. The Amselsee can be reached on foot from the Laasenhof in approx. 30 minutes and can be fantastically combined with a hike to the Bastei. Just get in touch with us!

Königstein Mountain and Fortress

The Königstein Fortress in the Saxon Sandstone Mountains is a popular destination for history and nature enthusiasts alike. The imposing fortress “crowns” the striking table mountain and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape as well as a rich history. With a history dating back to the 13th century, the fortress is a living testimony to bygone eras. Visitors can explore the well-preserved walls and towers, stroll through the historic casemates and visit the exhibitions on the history of the fortress. Königstein Fortress also offers numerous hiking trails and vantage points overlooking the picturesque Elbe – an unforgettable experience for the whole family. The fortress can be reached from Rathen in around 15 minutes by car or in a one-stop-trainride by S-Bahn.

Theater on the Rathen open-air stage

The open-air stage in Rathen is another highlight of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. With its unique location amidst imposing rock formations, the open-air stage not only offers a breathtaking backdrop, but also a varied program: visitors can experience top-class theater performances, rousing musicals and impressive concerts. From classics of world literature to modern productions – the Felsenbühne’s program delights guests of all ages. Nestled between majestic sandstone cliffs, the stage offers a magical atmosphere that makes the cultural experience even more intense. The Felsenbühne Rathen is approx. 2 km from the Laasenhof Resort and can be reached on foot with a short ferry ride.

By bike or e-bike on the Elbe cycle path

The Elbe cycle path near Rathen is a true paradise for cyclists. On a stunning route along the Elbe, you can experience the beauty of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains at first hand. Start your tour in Rathen and follow the well-maintained cycle path, which takes you through idyllic villages, along imposing rock formations and past beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the fresh air and the impressive view of the river as you pedal at a leisurely pace. Down the Elbe, the cycle route takes you along the vineyards and the famous Pillnitz Castle to Dresden (approx. 30 km). In the other direction, you ride through the striking rock formations of Saxon Switzerland to the Czech Republic (approx. 25 km). You are welcome to use one of our modern e-bikes.

The historic Railway at “Kirnitzschtal”

The Kirnitzschtal train is a historic streetcar that charmingly connects the town of Bad Schandau with the Lichtenhain waterfall. With a route length of 8 kilometers, it offers an incomparable ride through the picturesque Kirnitzschtal valley. During the ride, you can enjoy the impressive beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Kirnitzschtalbahn, also affectionately known as the “green steam streetcar”, runs on both steam and diesel power and creates a nostalgic atmosphere that not only enchants train enthusiasts. In summer, the Kirnitzschtalbahn runs every 30 minutes, in winter about once per hour. From Laasenhof Resort you can reach the valley station in Bad Schandau in approx. 20 minutes by car or by the local train (S-Bahn).

The “Kuhstall” rock gate

The Kuhstall rock gate is located very close to the Kirnitzschtal valley – an impressive rock formation and also a landmark of the region. The imposing rock gate bears the name “Kuhstall” because its shape actually reminds of the entrance to a cowshed. This popular destination for hikers and nature lovers is just a 30-minute walk from the Kirnitzschtalbahn mountain station – or via some picturesque hiking trails from Bad Schandau or Schmilka. The sight of the massive rock gate and the view of the surrounding landscape are breathtaking. Take a break, enjoy the view and capture this impressive natural wonder in photos.

Kids- and Funpark “Oskarshausen”

Visitors traveling with children should definitely explore the popular Oskarshausen fun park in Freital. The indoor and outdoor leisure park offers a total of over 50 activities that not only satisfy the urge to move, but also encourage creativity and experimentation in the little ones. From crawling corners, labyrinths and trampolines to electric go-carts, there is something for all ages. Adults can relax and enjoy a coffee or take a stroll in the park. From Laasenhof, you can reach the Oskarshausen leisure park in around 45 minutes by car.

Swimming and wellness at “Toscana” thermal baths

If you want even more wellness, we recommend the Bad Schandau thermal spa. You can reach it from Rathen in approx. 25 km by car or with one of our e-bikes along the picturesque Elbe cycle path. The thermal spa offers visitors a wide range of wellness and health treatments. Immerse yourself in the soothing thermal pools and let your worries melt away in the warm water. Enjoy various saunas and relaxation areas that invite you to switch off and relax. The spa also offers a wide range of wellness treatments, such as massages and beauty treatments, to pamper body and soul. The stay is crowned with a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains.

“Marie-Louise-Stolln” mining tunnels

The Marie-Louise-Stolln is a fascinating historical mine in the Eastern Erzgebirge, approx. 20 km southwest of Rathen. It was built in the 19th century and was used to mine silver. Today, the mine is a popular destination for visitors who want to dive into the world of mining. On a guided tour, you can explore the fascinating underworld and learn more about the hard work of the miners. The tunnel offers an authentic experience that gives you an insight into the mining history of the region. Immerse yourself in the mysterious atmosphere of the Marie-Louise-Stolln and experience a piece of the past up close. You can reach the mines from the Laasenhof Resort in approx. 25 minutes by car or approx. 45 minutes by public transport.

Steamboat cruise on the Elbe

Board a traditional paddle steamer and let the gentle river breeze blow around your nose. Several times a day, there are trips from Rathen along the Saxon Wine Route directly to the baroque old town of Dresden. Alternatively, you can travel from the Königstein landing stage up the Elbe to Děčín in the Czech Republic. During the trip, you can admire the breathtaking beauty of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, passing picturesque villages and majestic rock formations. The steamboat trip on the Elbe offers a unique perspective of the region and is an unforgettable way to experience Saxon Switzerland from the water.

Hiking on the Lilienstein mountain

With its unique shape, the Lilienstein can be seen from Dresden and is one of the landmarks of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. An exciting hike to this striking table mountain is a great option from Rathen. The tour starts with a gentle ferry crossing over the Elbe, followed by an ascent through natural forests and over rocky terrain. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view over the Elbe valley. The Lilienstein is also a paradise for climbing enthusiasts who can master the challenge of the steep rocks. Enjoy the beauty of nature and a touch of adventure on this unforgettable tour to the Lilienstein.