Zschirnsteine, Table hill formation in Reinhardtsdorf-Schöna, Germany
The Zschirnsteine are two sandstone table mountains in Saxon Switzerland, with the larger peak reaching 561 meters and the smaller one 473 meters in elevation. Both rise sharply from the landscape and their summits command wide views across the forested terrain below.
The name Zschirnsteine comes from Slavic roots meaning black stone, reflecting the early Slavic settlement in this Saxon region. These peaks served as important landmarks for travelers and settlers navigating the local terrain.
The hills feature a Nagel Column from 1865, commemorating August Nagel's contributions to Saxony's land surveys, with a replica installed in 2011.
Well-marked trails to both summits begin near Panoramahotel Wolfsberg and lead through forested slopes with clear directional signs along the way. Most visitors need two to four hours to visit both peaks comfortably with time for rest and photos at the viewpoints.
The larger peak is one of only three locations in Saxony where climbing massive rock walls is permitted under local regulations, making it especially attractive to climbers. This exception makes it one of the few places in the region where this adventurous activity can be legally pursued.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
