Holiday in the Eastern Ore Mountains – nature, hiking and peace in one of the most unspoilt regions of Germany

Just a few minutes’ drive from the Alte Zollhaus lies the Lehnmühle reservoir. Nestled between dense forests, it is one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the Eastern Ore Mountains.

If you are out here early in the morning, you will often witness an impressive natural spectacle. Fine mist lies over the water while the first rays of sunshine slowly light up the surrounding forests. The water looks almost like a mirror and only the twittering of birds breaks the silence.

The reservoir is not a place for hectic tourism. Rather, it invites you to pause, go for a walk or simply sit down on a bench and enjoy the landscape.

Photographers in particular will find impressive subjects here in every season.

In spring the fresh green of the trees shines.

In summer the clouds are reflected on the water’s surface.

Autumn turns the surrounding forests into a sea of colour.

And in winter an almost fairytale backdrop of snow, ice and mist appears.

Only about 11 kilometres from the Alte Zollhaus lies one of the oldest nature reserves in Saxony – the Georgenfeld raised bog.

A lovingly built wooden boardwalk leads right through this unique landscape.

After just a few steps the atmosphere changes.

The air smells different.
The sounds become quieter.
Between moor grasses, cotton grass and small pools of water an almost mystical mood arises.

The raised bog is home to numerous rare plant and animal species. Information boards along the path explain the special features of this extraordinary landscape and show why bogs are more important today than ever.

Especially in autumn or on misty days, the raised bog looks almost like a scene from a nature film.

A walk here slows you down quite automatically.

At around 905 metres, the Kahleberg is one of the highest mountains in Saxony.

From the summit a wide view opens up over the Eastern Ore Mountains deep into Bohemia.

On clear days you can see across countless wooded ridges and small villages that blend harmoniously into the landscape.

The route to the Kahleberg is varied and also well suited to experienced leisure hikers.

Many guests start directly at the Alte Zollhaus and combine the tour with other viewpoints in the region.

Anyone who experiences the sunrise here will not forget that moment for a long time.

Slowly the sun rises above the forests.

The landscape awakens.

Mist drifts through the valleys.

And suddenly the whole of the Ore Mountains lies in warm morning light.

Another popular hiking destination is the Kohlhaukuppe.

Even the way there leads through beautiful forests and open mountain meadows.

At the top, the lookout tower awaits with an impressive panoramic view.

From here you can spot many landmarks of the Ore Mountains.

After the hike, the traditional mountain inn invites you to stop for a bite.

Regional specialities, homemade cakes and the cosy atmosphere make the outing perfect.

Families and leisure hikers in particular love this tour.

The Lugsteine are among the most striking rock formations in the Eastern Ore Mountains.

They lie directly on the German-Czech border and offer wonderful views into both countries.

Here you can feel particularly clearly how closely Germany and the Czech Republic are connected.

Many hiking trails lead across the border through the landscape.

Within a few minutes you switch between two countries – without rush, without long journeys and often without even noticing.

Anyone visiting the Ore Mountains really must see the Altenberger Pinge .

It is one of the most important mining monuments in Europe.

The huge crater was created by centuries of tin mining and still impresses today with its enormous size.

From several viewpoints you can look at the Pinge from different perspectives.

Information boards explain the history of this extraordinary place.

Today the Altenberger Pinge is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Erzgebirge/Krušnohoří Mining Region and is an impressive reminder of how much mining has shaped this region.

Just a few kilometres from the Alte Zollhaus, a journey underground begins.

In the Zinnwald show mine you immerse yourself in the world of the miners.

Original tunnels, historic tools and exciting guided tours give an authentic impression of the hard daily life underground.

On hot summer days in particular, the mine offers a pleasant way to cool off.

But above all it is a fascinating experience for young and old.

Here history becomes tangible.

If you want to delve even deeper into the history of the Ore Mountains, you should visit the Altenberg Mining Museum .

The exhibition impressively shows how mining shaped people’s lives over many centuries.

Original machines, tools and numerous exhibits tell the story of a region that owed its prosperity to ore.

Particularly exciting are the multimedia exhibitions that connect past and present.

The Schellerhau Botanical Garden is one of the highest botanical gardens in Germany.

At around 800 metres, plants from mountain regions all over the world grow here.

Between small paths, lovingly laid-out beds and quiet seating areas, visitors discover alpine plants, rare flowers and numerous native species.

The garden is perfect for a relaxed afternoon and offers an impressive variety of colours, especially in spring and summer.

The romantic Lauenstein Castle is one of the most beautiful historic sites in the Eastern Ore Mountains.

Perched high above the Müglitz valley, the castle combines history, culture and nature in a special way.

Several museums, changing exhibitions and the historic castle grounds invite you to explore.

From the castle wall a beautiful view opens up over the landscape.

If you love history, you should definitely visit this place.

It is not only hiking fans who get their money’s worth in the Eastern Ore Mountains.

At the Geising wildlife enclosure you can watch native animals such as red deer, fallow deer and mouflons in a near-natural setting.

Families with children in particular enjoy the quiet walk through the enclosure.

Photographers also find many beautiful subjects here.

The Eastern Ore Mountains have long ceased to be a tip just for hikers.

With the Blockline, one of the most attractive mountain bike trails in Germany was created.

More than 140 kilometres lead through forests, past lakes, over mountains and through typical Ore Mountain villages.

Many sections are very close to the Alte Zollhaus.

Whether a sporty day tour or a relaxed family loop – there is a suitable route for every level.

This also makes the Alte Zollhaus an ideal base for cyclistswho want to combine nature and exercise.

Only around 39 kilometres separate the Alte Zollhaus from one of the most beautiful cities in Germany.

Dresden is one of the most popular destinations in Europe and delights with a unique mix of history, culture and modern lifestyle.

In less than an hour you reach the old town and can plan the day just as you wish.

A stroll along the Elbe.

A visit to the famous Frauenkirche.

The impressive Semperoper.

The Dresden Zwinger.

Or simply a coffee on the Neumarkt.

Dresden offers countless possibilities.

Art lovers also get their money’s worth.

The Old Masters Picture Gallery is one of the most important museums in Europe and houses world-famous works by Raphael, Vermeer and Rembrandt.

If you prefer to stroll, you will find numerous small shops, boutiques and cafés in the old town.

Especially at Christmas time, Dresden turns into one of the most atmospheric cities in Germany. The famous Striezelmarkt attracts visitors from all over the world and is one of the oldest Christmas markets of all.

The best part:

After an eventful day you return to the Alte Zollhaus.

Back to peace and quiet.

Back to nature.

Many guests enjoy precisely this contrast between the lively city and the relaxed mountain landscape.

Just a few kilometres beyond the German-Czech border, a completely different experience awaits.

The traditional spa town Teplice in about 25 minutes.

Teplice has been known for its thermal springs for centuries.

Emperors, kings, artists and musicians spent their spa stays here.

To this day, beautiful parks, historic buildings and elegant spa houses shape the townscape.

A walk through the centre leads past small cafés, traditional restaurants and lovingly restored façades.

If you want to relax, you will find numerous wellness offers and thermal baths.

Many guests combine their stay at the Alte Zollhaus with a trip to Teplice.

The mix of Bohemian serenity, good food and historic flair makes the town a popular destination.

Of course, a visit to the Czech restaurants is also worthwhile.

Bohemian cuisine is hearty, varied and known for its hospitality.

When people think of Saxony, many immediately think of Saxon Switzerland.

The impressive Elbe Sandstone Mountains are among the most spectacular natural landscapes in Germany.

From the Alte Zollhaus you can easily reach the region by car and enjoy an unforgettable day trip.

Even the drive there leads through beautiful landscapes.

There you can expect unique rock formations, deep gorges, scenic hiking trails and unrivalled nature.

The Bastei – the landmark of Saxon Switzerland

Hardly any place is as well known as the Bastei.

The famous rock bridge is one of the most photographed sights in Germany.

From here, visitors enjoy a breathtaking view over the Elbe valley and the striking sandstone rocks.

Whether in the morning mist or at sunset in the evening – the view remains unforgettable.

If you like hiking, you will find numerous tours of different lengths around the Bastei.

Just a few kilometres away rises the imposing Königstein Fortress.

It is one of the largest mountain fortresses in Europe and impresses with a striking mix of history, architecture and spectacular views.

From the fortress walls the view stretches far across the Elbe valley into the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.

Families in particular can easily spend a whole day here.

If you like hiking, take your time for the famous Schrammsteine .

The demanding paths reward you with spectacular views.

The Lilienstein is also one of the most popular hiking mountains in the region.

Another highlight is the Painters’ Way.

It is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Germany and has led numerous artists through the landscape of Saxon Switzerland.

Many of Caspar David Friedrich’s famous paintings were inspired by precisely this region.

The border to the Czech Republic is practically on the doorstep.

This opens up numerous further excursion possibilities.

Small mountain villages.

Historic towns.

Nature parks.

And beautiful hiking trails.

Many paths even lead directly across the border.

Without much planning you experience two countries in a single day.

Many guests are surprised at how well the Alte Zollhaus is suited to a day trip to Prague .

In about an hour and a half you reach the Golden City.

Charles Bridge.

Old Town Square.

Prague Castle.

The Jewish Quarter.

Or simply a walk along the Vltava.

Prague is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

If you spend your holiday at the Alte Zollhaus, you can combine nature and a world-class city perfectly.