Left-hand Selb table mountain near Königstein with lookout tower and mountain inn
The Pfaffenstein is a 434-metre high and wildly rugged table mountain on the left bank of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. It is a popular destination for climbers, as there are 32 climbing rocks here. An observation tower was built on the summit in 1904 and reopened in 1995. The mountain inn still serves hungry day-trippers and holidaymakers today.
Pfaffenstein is home to the landmark of Saxon Switzerland and one of the most famous rock needles of all: the 43-metre-high Barbarine. Once you reach the top, you will find a historic inn and numerous fantastic views.
(Winter) hiking tips:
The Pfaffenstein as a photo spot:
Best time: sunrise
Motifs: Barbarine, view of the Gohrisch in the east or the Lilienstein
Starting point: Hikers' parking lot at Pfaffenstein
Public transport: Bus 244a HST town center Pfaffendorf (Königstein)
Parking: Pfaffendorf hiking parking lot
Pfaffenstein is home to the landmark of Saxon Switzerland and one of the most famous rock needles of all: the 43-metre-high Barbarine. Once you reach the top, you will find a historic inn and numerous fantastic views.
(Winter) hiking tips:
- Up the Pfaffenstein with the eye of the needle and sacrificial cauldron
- Pfaffendorf: Around the Quirl and onto the Pfaffenstein plateau
- Pfaffenstein
The Pfaffenstein as a photo spot:
Best time: sunrise
Motifs: Barbarine, view of the Gohrisch in the east or the Lilienstein
Starting point: Hikers' parking lot at Pfaffenstein
Public transport: Bus 244a HST town center Pfaffendorf (Königstein)
Parking: Pfaffendorf hiking parking lot
