Bastei and Schwarzberg from Rathen

• Partial closure Amselgrund: Amselsee and the Amselgrund stretch from Rathen to the Schwedenlöcher junction have been closed since 31 July 2026 following storm damage. Further information: https://nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de/en/warnings/eilmeldung-waldsperrung • Forest closure following storm damage: Following a storm on 31 July, the area is closed for clearance work and due to the danger posed by fallen trees. Further information: https://nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de/warnungen/eilmeldung-waldsperrung Popular circular hiking trail in the Saxon Switzerland National Park, Saxony This circular route to the Bastei starts at the railway station in the spa town of Rathen (accessible by bus and train). The route promises many highlights; a ferry ride across the Elbe awaits right at the start (check prices and timetable), before you hike along the picturesque Amselsee lake and the Schwedenlöcher gorges. The Schwedenlöcher are a gorge-like ravine that can be reached via rocky alleyways, over 700 steps and several iron ladders. This is followed by the famous Bastei with the Bastei Bridge and finally the route leads over the Schwarzberg towards the town of Wehlen and then back along the banks of the Elbe at a leisurely pace. The hike is a good mix of world-famous attractions, idyllic forest paths and fantastic views of the Elbe valley. There are refreshment stops along the way. Highlights of the hike: - Bastei view - Schwedenlöcher - Rathen health resort - Blackbird Lake - Stone table - Neurathen rock castle - Ferry trip across the Elbe (subject to charge)