Buschmühle, Historic watermill in Kirnitzschtal Valley, Sebnitz, Germany

Buschmühle is a mill complex on the left bank of the Kirnitzsch in the Ottendorf district of Sebnitz, within Saxon Switzerland National Park. Its overshot water wheel, 5 m in diameter and 1.6 m wide, still generates electricity for the restaurant and hiking hostel that occupy the former milling buildings.

The building was first mentioned in 1547 and burned down in 1780, then was rebuilt at its current location in 1784. Its long history makes it an important landmark of early industry in the valley.

The mill became a gathering place for mountaineers in the 19th century when few other dining options existed in the valley. This role as a rest stop for outdoor enthusiasts continues to shape the place today.

The mill stands on the left bank of the Kirnitzsch in the Ottendorf district of Sebnitz, inside the Nationalpark Sächsische Schweiz. The access bridge over the Kirnitzsch was swept away in the August 2010 flood, so check the current approach before setting out. The mill wheel now generates electricity for the restaurant.

The mill continued grinding grain until 1992, making it the last operating mill in the entire valley. After that date, the operation shifted completely to serving food and lodging for hikers.