Hohenstein - Rathen Circular Route

• 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 • 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 hiking trail in Saxon Switzerland National Park, Saxony. This trail offers quiet forests, great views and many surprises along the way. It starts at Kurort Rathen train station. After crossing the Elbe by ferry, the path leads straight ahead towards Amselsee, with Malerweg on the left. Following the signs to the Hockstein, the hiking trail leads through the beautiful forest. Before reaching the Hockstein, the S163 must be crossed. The Hockstein offers very nice views of Hohenstein Castle and across the Polenz Valley. After a few steps, the path leads into the Polenztal and on the other side up to Hohenstein Castle and the town of Hohenstein. Hohenstein Castle is a nice place to take a break. A detour to the Gautschengrotte is also worthwhile. Then the path meanders over the "Kleinen Kuhstall" down into the Polenztal, where the S163 has to be crossed again. On the other side it goes a bit up the mountain and in the forest back to Rathen. Highlights of the route: - Beautiful views - Varied natural landscape - Local flora and fauna - Refreshments available