If you were actually planning to spend a seaside holiday in Saxon Switzerland, you are some 100 million years late … Instead you have arrived at the Elbe Sandstone Mountains' romantic countryside having emerged from the Cretaceous Sea. Saxon Switzerland is located in the southeast of Saxony, about 20 miles (30 km) from Dresden and 90 miles (150 km) from Prague. It is renowned for its spectacular canyons and sandstone formations. Explore the natural beauty of over 290 square miles (760 km²) of rugged mesas and reefs and enjoy some great adventure activities. There are over 745 miles (1,200 km) of rambling trails for shorter hikes as well as challenging via ferratas. Experience easy or thrilling trails, surrounded by astounding sights such as the Bastei rock formation, Kuhstall arch or Königstein Fortress. The "Malerweg" (painters' trail) leads through this fascinating rocky landscape, featuring the most beautiful spots in the region. Its origins date back to the 18th century, when hikers were impressed with the wooded wild, romantic gorges, the inexhaustible abundance of bizarre rock formations as well as the breathtaking views.
Not surprisingly, the Swiss artists, Adrian Zingg and Anton Graff, were attracted to the picturesque sandstone landscape. Their sketches and drawings have inspired many artists – including later generations – to visit the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, among them being such famous romanticists as Caspar David Friedrich, Carl Gustav Carus and Ludwig Richter.
