Malerweg
A circuit through the dramatic sandstone landscape of Saxon Switzerland, following the route taken by Romantic painters including Caspar David Friedrich…
Route overview
The Malerweg, or Painters' Way, is a long-distance trail of approximately 112 kilometres that circuits the Saxon Switzerland National Park in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains of eastern Germany. The route follows the paths taken by Romantic-era painters including Caspar David Friedrich, who found inspiration in the dramatic sandstone towers, deep gorges, and river views of the region. The trail passes through the Bastei rock bridge, the Königstein fortress, the Polenz valley, and the rock formations of the Schrammsteine. It combines forest walking, rocky scrambles, and riverside paths along the Elbe. The sandstone landscape is unique in central Europe, with weathered rock towers, narrow gorges, and extensive viewpoints. The Malerweg is well waymarked and is one of the most popular long-distance trails in eastern Germany. Accommodation is available in the villages of Pirna, Bad Schandau, and Königstein, as well as in mountain huts within the national park.
A circuit through the dramatic sandstone landscape of Saxon Switzerland, following the route taken by Romantic painters including Caspar David Friedrich through rock towers, gorges and river valleys.
Trail facts
- Country
- Germany
- Region
- Saxon Switzerland
- Distance
- c. 112 km
- Typical duration
- 5–7 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- c. 3,000 m cumulative
- Best season
- April–October
- Trail type
- Rock and forest trail
Safety context
Rocky sections can be slippery in wet weather. Some viewpoints are exposed with steep drops. The sandstone is fragile — climbing off the path is prohibited in the national park.
The trail is popular at weekends and in summer. Some sections involve short scrambles that may not suit all walkers. The route is best walked anti-clockwise for the most dramatic views.
Highlights
Pirna and the Elbe valley Bastei rock bridge Königstein fortress on the table mountain Schrammsteine rock towers Polenz valley gorge Kirnitzsch valley Elbe Sandstone Mountain views Romantic painter viewpoints
Why find a buddy
A unique sandstone landscape trail through rock towers, gorges and painter viewpoints — a companion shares the dramatic scenery and the cultural history of the Romantic painters.
Primary source
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Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.