Elbe Sandstone Mountains, Mountain range in Saxony and North Bohemia, Germany and Czech Republic
The Elbe Sandstone Mountains stretch along both sides of the German-Czech border and include a landscape of weathered rock formations rising up to 723 meters. Deeply carved valleys alternate with forested plateaus, while the river traces broad loops through the soft stone.
The region became known as a travel destination in the late 18th century when locals began exploring the rocks systematically and creating viewpoints. Tourism grew quickly and led to the establishment of inns and the marking of walking paths through the valleys.
The name 'Saxon Switzerland' was given in the 18th century by two Swiss artists who found the rock landscape reminded them of home. Today visitors walk trails laid out more than two hundred years ago, threading through forests between towering rock pillars.
Many paths open up the area, with some flat routes running along the riverbank and others climbing steeply via ladders and staircases to the summits. Those who prefer to avoid the heights can still find panoramas from valley paths that run between the rock walls.
Paddle steamers have been running on the river since 1837, allowing travelers to view the rock scenery from the water. Some of the vessels were built over a hundred years ago and still travel through the narrow river bends today.
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