© Manuela Morawietz

Multi-stage hiking trails

The European long-distance path E3 is part of the European hiking trail network and leads from the Black Sea to the Iberian Peninsula. On the route of the E3 through Saxon Switzerland, you pass through practically all facets of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains: From the stone ridge landscape of the Eastern Ore Mountains, the trail leads into the sandstone rock areas at the tributaries of the Elbe, you explore the table mountain areas on the left bank of the Elbe and finally immerse yourself in the heavily rugged rock areas shaped by cool valleys and steep ascents in the Saxon Switzerland National Park on the right bank of the Elbe.

The Forststeig Saxon Switzerland and the Saxon-Bohemian Friendship Trail both stand for impressive hiking experiences in the unique natural and cultural landscape of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. While the Forststeig primarily offers original, near-natural trekking experiences away from the more frequented paths, the Saxon-Bohemian Friendship Trail combines landscape experience and cross-border encounters. Both trails lead through the fascinating scenery of Saxon-Bohemian Switzerland with its striking rock formations, quiet forests, wide views, and varied routes.

All information about the Malerweg Elbe Sandstone Mountains with its 8 daily stages can be found here.

Looking for More Hiking Inspiration?

You will find almost 200 additional routes for hiking & cycling in Saxon Switzerland in our route planner.
All tours are also available there for download as a PDF and with a GPX track.