Gautsch Grotto (Hohnstein)

• Partial closure: Due to a severe storm, the second stage of the Malerweg has been closed in some places since 31 July 2026. However, the diversion still leads to the Bastei viewpoint. Further information: https://www.saechsische-schweiz.de/en/tour/detour-on-stage-2-of-the-malerweg-due-to-a-forest-closure-starting-august-3-2026 The walk starts at the market square in Hohnstein, below the castle (bus stop; parking limited to 60 minutes). If you’re coming by car, it’s best to use the “Eiche” pay-and-display car park at the entrance to the village. From the market square, the route takes you through the village onto the footpath, offering views of the castle. You cross the historic “Bärengarten”. Halfway along the route, the path leads comfortably through the forest to a viewing point with a railing and then on to the Gautschgrotte. Depending on the weather, there is a small waterfall here, and in winter there are sometimes icicles. Along the way, you will also pass information boards from the Hohnstein nature trail, which provide information on various topics relating to Hohnstein. From the Gautschgrotte, you return to Hohnstein via the same route. The walk is mainly within the Saxon Switzerland National Park; here, you must not leave the paths and dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. Part of the route lies within the National Park’s core zone, where only marked paths may be used. (The side path to the viewpoint lies within the core zone; this is an official path, even though there is no sign.) More on the rules in the National Park: https://nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de/verhalten#nlp