Rathen: Via Hockstein view to the Gamrig

The tour starts at the Kurort Rathen train station. After the ferry crossing, follow the "red dot" and the signs uphill to the Bastei Bridge. There are several viewpoints along the way that are well worth the effort.

At the Berghotel Bastei, the signs point the way to the Schwedenlöchern. Shortly before this is the worthwhile pavilion view. The descent through the Schwedenlöcher involves many steps. The gorge served as a hiding place for the locals during the Thirty Years' War, hence the name.

Once you reach the bottom of Amselgrund, continue to the right and then turn left over the bridge into Höllgrund. From here, follow the markings with the green line. The junction path leads uphill. After crossing the Ziegenrückstraße, the Kotenweg continues until it meets the Malerweg. Follow this to the right to the Hockstein viewpoint. There you can see a mill carved into the rock, as well as views of Hohnstein Castle and the Polenztal valley.

The spectacular Wolfsschlucht gorge with its many steps takes you down into the Polenztal valley, where you continue to the right. A stop at the Polenztal inn is optional. The fairly easy path now follows the "red dot" along the Polenz.

At a fork in the path, the Füllhölzelweg turns right, crosses the Ziegenrückstraße again and meets the "red line" markings. Follow this until the Gamrigweg branches off to the left. The path leads to the summit of Table Mountain Gamrig with beautiful views. After the descent, head back towards the spa town of Rathen via the Aspichgraben. At the tourist information office, keep right towards the Elbe, take the ferry and return to the train station.