Malerweg

• Danger posed by deadwood in the lower part of the mountain trail: There is an increased risk of falling trees in the lower part of the mountain trail due to standing deadwood. We recommend taking the Erlsgrund and Winterbergstraße routes instead. Areas with a lot of standing deadwood should be avoided, especially in windy, rainy, or snowy conditions. Further information and a marked detour can be found at: https://nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de/warnungen/bergsteig • Section of the Kohlichtgraben is impassable: The marked section of Kohlichtgraben is impassable due to fallen trees. There is currently no prospect of the situation being resolved in the near future. For more information and suggested detours, visit: https://nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de/warnungen/wanderweg-im-kohlichtgraben-derzeit-unpassierbar • Partial closure: Due to a severe storm, the second stage of the Malerweg has been closed in some sections since July 31, 2026. However, the detour still leads to the Bastei viewpoint. More 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 Felsenbühne box office: Following storm damage on July 31, 2026, between Rathen and Hohnstein, the turnoff from Basteiweg to the Felsenbühne ticket office remains closed. More information: https://nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de/en/warnings/eilmeldung-waldsperrung • Partial closure Amselgrund: Amselsee and the Amselgrund section from Rathen to the Schwedenlöcher junction have been closed since July 31, 2026, due to storm damage. More information: https://nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de/en/warnings/eilmeldung-waldsperrung • Forest Closure Due to Storm Damage: Following a storm on July 31, the area is closed for cleanup efforts and due to the danger posed by fallen trees. For more information: https://nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de/warnungen/eilmeldung-waldsperrung The Malerweg is a premier 116 km (72 mi) long-distance circuit through Germany’s Saxon Switzerland, typically completed in eight daily stages. This historic route winds through the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, characterized by dramatic rock formations, deep gorges, and lush forests that once inspired Romantic-era painters. Highlights along the trail include the iconic Bastei Bridge, the fortress of Königstein, and the Schrammsteine peaks. Most hikers travel in a counter-clockwise direction beginning and ending in Pirna-Liebethal. Efficient public transit via the S-Bahn and Kirnitzschtal tram connects most trailheads, while hiker-friendly guesthouses and hotels are readily available in the gateway villages.