The fabulous vistas of 'Saxon Switzerland'

The story of the region's success dates back some 200 years: two Swiss artists were teaching at the Dresden Academy of Art when they went on an excursion out of the city. The majestic rocks of the Elbe Valley Sandstone Mountains reminded them of the mountains of their home. They promptly renamed the area Saxon Switzerland.

Dresden continues to be the best starting point for a trip to Saxon Switzerland. In front of the city's Baroque skyline of splendid buildings, which are incidentally made of sandstone, the steamboats cast off and set a course on the Elbe River.

Just two hours cruise up the Elbe towards the Czech border brings you to your destination. If you disembark at Wehlen, Rathen, Königstein or Bad Schandau, the mountain-world is only a few steps away.

Wind and weather had millions of years to shape the soft sandstone into extraordinary formations. Over the years, people have given them imaginary names like hell hound, locomotive, valley-guard. Pictured here are the Herkulessäulen - or Hercules' Pillars - in the Bieltal valley.

The region has an extensive path network offering routes for beginners as well as experienced hikers. You don't need to go far to see new things - rocks, flat mesas shaped hills, plateaus and gorges are all on the path. Should you have to climb uphill rest assured that your hard work will eventually be rewarded with a fabulous view.

Many of the region's hiking trails lead to the Bastei - or bastion - which is probably the most famous rock formation in Saxon Switzerland. Long ago it housed marauding knights, later the romanticists flocked here and today it's tourists. Solitude is something you rarely get to enjoy as the view of the surrounding area from here 200 meters (656 feet) above the Elbe is just too good.

With over 1,100 summits, Saxon Switzerland is Germany's largest rock climbing area. In 1874, a summit was reached for the first time without the use of climbing aids. Saxon free-climbing means it has to be accomplished without the help of any artificial device attached to the rock. Only ropes, bolts and quick-draws may be used to protect the climbers in case of a fall.

It is one of Europe's largest fortresses, which in its 800-year history was never conquered, mostly because of its thick walls and heavy canons. Saxon King Augustus II the Strong used this fortress as a state prison but also for splendid receptions. His wine cellar can still be viewed today.

From the Königstein Fortress the view reaches as far as Lilienstein, one of Saxon Switzerland's most distinct mesa mountains. The Elbe River keeps a respectful distance and even makes a turn. All in all, a picture perfect view.

Those who still have energy reserves after hiking and climbing can bike back to Dresden on the Elbe cycle path. This flat route offers some last fabulous views of the mountains and rock formations along the Elbe.