Rhododendronpark Kleine Bastei, Botanical garden in Rathen, Germany
Rhododendronpark Kleine Bastei is a botanical garden on steep hillsides of the Elbe Valley in Rathen. The two hectare site displays around 30 rhododendron species alongside various trees from distant regions.
A physician named Karl Friedrich Keydel created the garden in 1920. A landscape architect named Baila Helmenreich enlarged the site between 1926 and 1929 with rare alpine plants.
The park is known for its collection of plants from distant regions, including Japanese maples and Canadian evergreens. These foreign specimens shape the place's character today.
The best entry is by ferry and train from the left bank of the Elbe, then following the path along Grünbach stream to the entrance. The steep slopes require good footwear and a relaxed pace.
The garden was redesigned in 2009 with a renovated pond that collects water from the surroundings. From many spots, visitors can see the Bastei rocks and Neurathen Castle on the opposite hillside.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
