The BASTEI Bridge — Attraction in Lohmen/Stadt Wehlen

The Bastei area is located in the Saxon Switzerland National Park (Sächsische Schweiz).

We were confused when we arrived. The entire area is called Bastei. Then there's Basteibrücke, Basteiaussicht and Basteiweg. For quite a long time, we couldn't figure out where the famous postcard view was on the map. Google Maps showed it at all viewpoints. We wandered around admiring various views, but we couldn't find the right one. Finally, we discovered that the famous view of the bridge surrounded by rocks was from Ferdinandstein on Google Maps. It's up and down, over various terrains and stairs, but not very difficult.

The bridge itself is very easy to get to. It's not far from the car park. Just follow the signs for the Basteibrücke bridge.

There are several hiking trails offering spectacular, breathtaking views from many scenic viewpoints. Many of these viewpoints feature classic combinations of forest, stairs and footpaths. Many of the routes are not suitable for people with joint problems.

The castle area is unfortunately closed to visitors. The info panel says: Neurathen Rock Castle. Due to its deteriorating condition and for safety reasons, the rock castle is closed. I found this info: Rock movements and fluctuations in the stone base (in mm) under the castle's bridges and passages have been detected. Repairs and monitoring are to be carried out to verify stability. No reopening date has yet been set.

In summer, it is advisable to use sunscreen.

There are several paid car parks — €7 for 4 hours. Payment can be made via app, QR code or vending machine. Public transport is also available. Entry to the national park is free. There is a toilet available for €1.

There are places offering refreshments. But the prices are outrageous. Many people therefore prefer to bring their own water and snacks. Near the bridge, there are wooden tables and benches that resemble picnic areas, but unfortunately they are not intended for public use. Only customers of the nearby establishment are allowed to eat and drink there. Even though the tables were empty, people were sitting on the ground behind them.

The castle The former rock castle was the largest and most impressive object in Saxon-Bohemian Switzerland. It was first mentioned in the year 1289. 120 meters of the military parapet were made accessible for tourist traffic again. It was built by the Bohemian nobility to protect the borders - from 1466 it became a bandit's castle. In 1467, the castle was besieged by the elector of Saxony and its troops. Two years later, it was completely burned down. Today, only the courtyard, the cistern, passages and traces of the rooms carved into the rock have survived. Especially worth seeing is the replica...

Our journey of the region took us to Basteibrücke, a famed sandstone bridge nestled in the heart of the Saxon Switzerland National Park, in the town of Lohmen. This spot has been a tourist magnet since the 19th century, known for its arresting beauty and lofty vistas. And yet, we found ourselves caught up in a whirlwind of a very different kind.

The first inkling that our expedition might be unlike our previous serene experiences was the sight of a chock-full parking lot, cars lined up like impatient dominos. Undeterred, we pressed on, finding solace in a secondary parking area, only to be greeted with a €1.50 return fare for a bus shuttle. A small price, we thought, for the anticipated spectacle.

However, upon arriving at the actual site, our hopes waned. Basteibrücke was awash with visitors—a sea of bustling crowds, shifting and merging in a ceaseless dance. It was an unexpected commercial theme park nestled within nature's grandeur.

The bridge itself, a majestic testament to nature's ability to inspire awe, was overshadowed by the carnival-like atmosphere. With every turn, we encountered stalls selling bratwurst for a lofty €8, a panorama café boasting the best view (if you could secure a spot), and a beer garden, each vying for our attention and euros. While the site caters to various tastes and provides amenities, the overwhelming crowds seemed to dwarf the actual marvel we'd come to experience.

Yes, Basteibrücke is an impressive sight. Its jagged silhouette cutting across the sky, the stunning vistas from its parapet, the sandstone pinnacles jutting out of the verdant sea of trees—it all paints a beautiful portrait. Yet, the tranquility and awe one would expect from such a natural wonder were tainted by the throngs of people and the pervasive commercial element.

The irony of being part of the crowd while lamenting its presence isn't lost on us. This review is a cautionary tale, perhaps, for those seeking a serene encounter with nature's artistry. While Basteibrücke undoubtedly holds historical and natural importance, the experience might be better suited for those who don't mind sharing their adventure with a host of fellow travelers and the ever-present hum of commerce. For those still on the fence, I heartily recommend travelling a mere 20 kilometer further South, into Czechia, where the views are equally spectacular, if not more so.

In conclusion, our journey to Basteibrücke was a mixed bag—a feast for the eyes, indeed, but a far cry from the tranquil communion with nature we've come to treasure in our travels. Be prepared for crowds and a carnival atmosphere if you decide to embark on...

Bastei Bridge is a must-visit destination in Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany. This stunning bridge connects several rock formations, offering breathtaking views of the Elbe River and surrounding landscape.

Pros:

Breathtaking Views: The bridge provides unparalleled views of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, Elbe River, and Königstein Fortress. Rich History: The bridge has a fascinating history dating back to 1824 when a wooden bridge was first built, later replaced with a sandstone bridge in 1851. Hiking Trails: The area offers various hiking trails for all fitness levels, including the Schwedenlöcher Trail and Amselsee Lake Path. Nearby Attractions: Visit Neurathen Castle, Königstein Fortress, and explore the charming town of Rathen.

Cons:

Crowds: The bridge can get crowded, especially during peak season, so consider visiting early in the morning. Accessibility: Some hiking trails may be challenging, and winter weather can cause accessibility issues.

Tips:

Visit Early: Arrive at 8:00 am to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful settings. Wear Comfortable Shoes: Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for hiking and exploring the area. Bring a Camera: Capture stunning photos of the bridge and surrounding landscape. Consider a Guided Tour: Book a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and geology of the area.

Practical Information:

Location: Bastei Bridge is located in Saxon Switzerland National Park, near the Czech border.

Parking: There are two public parking lots nearby, with a fee of €3 for up to three hours and €5.50 for a full day.

Public Transport: Take the regional train S1 from Dresden's main train station to Kurort Rathen, then a ferry ride across the Elbe River, and hike up...