Discover Germany
August 15, 2011
The view is dominated by rugged outcrops and majestic table mountains. In the 18th century, artists were the first people to be fascinated by this beautiful but wild countryside. Nowadays the bridge through the spectacular Bastei rock formations and Königstein Fortress are among the main attractions for visitors.
Extensive hiking trails crisscross Saxon Switzerland National Park. The region is also a traditional rock climbing area, offering about a thousand sandstone needles for sport climbers. It was against this spectacular backdrop that Saxon electors and kings built magnificent palaces, such as Weesenstein Castle and Grosssedlitz Baroque Garden, one of the loveliest in Germany.
Klaus Brähmig, a member of the German parliament, shows us the region he calls home. He recommends Stolpen Castle, Berggiesshübel iron mine and the Ziegelscheune - a country-style inn by the Elbe River.
Text: DW-TV
Editor: Kate Bowen