Mönch, Rock formation in Sächsische Schweiz-Osterzgebirge, Germany.
Mönch is a tall sandstone column in Saxon Switzerland that rises sharply from the surrounding landscape with a distinctive pointed shape. The rock formation has steep faces and reaches high above the valley floor, making it visible from many locations in the area.
The formation was connected to a medieval castle nearby and served as a lookout post during that time. Later it became an important destination for climbers who developed routes on its faces.
The name comes from a monk-like shape that visitors see in the rock's outline. This association has made it a recognizable landmark in the region for centuries.
The formation offers climbing routes for different skill levels, from easier to more challenging ascents. Visitors should wear proper footwear and consider the exposed sections when planning their visit.
A metal weather vane shaped like a monk sits at the summit and is visible from far away. This carefully crafted detail serves as a navigation aid that many visitors overlook during their climb.
Location: Sächsische Schweiz-Osterzgebirge
GPS coordinates: 50.96130,14.07610
Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:01
Bastei
891 m
Neurathen Castle
135 m
Felsenbühne Rathen
310 m
Amselsee
507 m
Altrathen Castle
421 m
Wartturm
639 m
Lokomotive
788 m
Eisenbahnwelten im Kurort Rathen
610 m
Rahmhanke
387 m
Talwächter
516 m
Schwedenturm
951 m
Rathen Ferry
521 m
Kurort Rathen railway station
510 m
Tiedgestein
55 m
Bastei Bridge
260 m
Villa, Villengarten mit Gartenterrasse und Steingarten (bzw. Felsengarten) sowie Einfriedung mit Torpfeilern Pötzschaer Weg 7
542 m
Staumauer des Amselsees
373 m
Basteiweg 1 Rathen
490 m
Gansfelsen
349 m
Zwei Gedenktafeln an einem Felsen der Bastei
249 m
Mord- und Sühnekreuz
1 km
Ehemalige Burganlage mit Wohnturm, Vorhof, Innenhof und Umfassungsmauer Am Grünbach 11
402 m
Am Grünbach 9 Rathen
456 m
Wegweiser Basteistraße-Fremdenweg
686 m
Wegestein
880 m
Einzeldenkmale der Sachgesamtheit Rhododendronpark Kleine Bastei: Pension mit Gaststätte (Nr. 10) und Nebengebäude (Nr. 11) (siehe auch Sachgesamtheitsliste - Obj. 09304506) Zur kleinen Bastei 10; 11
780 m
Wohn- und Beherbergungsgebäude Basteistraße
411 m
Große Gans
581 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes