The mining trail in Weißenborn/Erzgeb. links traces of ore mining with views of the Ore Mountain landscape. The town lies at the foot of the Ore Mountains, near Freiberg. In addition to the trail, signposted cycling and hiking routes and an outdoor swimming pool are other options to consider during a stay.
Mining history along the trail
Six wooden information boards along the mining trail explore Weißenborn’s history and mining. The route passes the former mine office of the Himmelsfürst mine, along with the Günther Erbstolln. A detour leads to the collapsed upper entrance of the 900-metre-long Wernergraben watercourse tunnel.
One possible starting point is the Dreiländereck at the intersection of Friedrichweg and Buchenweg. The trail is marked in both directions. The route can be extended to around 9.2 kilometres with the detour to Wernergraben. Access conditions on this detour may vary; check the signs on site. The lower section can be wet in spring or after heavy rain, so suitable footwear is advisable.
Explore the town and landscape
The first documented mention of Weißenborn dates to 1213. Silver, copper, tin and lead were mined in Weißenborn’s northern fields until the mid-19th century. These dates provide different points of reference for the town’s history and mining.
The valleys of the Freiberger Mulde and Bobritzsch cut up to 100 metres into the landscape. Along the mining trail, views of the Ore Mountain landscape combine with remnants of mining. Signposted cycling and hiking routes in the area around Weißenborn and Berthelsdorf pass through natural landscapes and lead to viewpoints. Both towns are starting points for cycling and hiking tours. The mining trail brings together historical traces; on the signposted routes around the towns, the focus is on nature and viewpoints.
The outdoor swimming pool as another highlight
The outdoor swimming pool offers an alternative to excursions in the countryside. Its water area covers 3,600 m². Facilities include a large water slide, a 2.50 m-high diving tower, and play and climbing equipment; there is also a beach volleyball court. The pool can be accessed barrier-free via a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a lift. Free parking is available.
More things to see in Central Saxony
In Central Saxony, the Rochlitzer Berg offers a different kind of highlight: it is 353 metres high and a remnant of volcanic activity. Red porphyry tuff is found there and is considered unique in Germany and Europe. The terra mineralia exhibition at Freudenstein Castle in Freiberg displays more than 3,500 minerals, gemstones and meteorites. So alongside the traces of mining in the landscape, visitors can also explore rocks and a large mineral collection as regional attractions.
At Rochsburg Castle, the “Leute machen Kleider” exhibition showcases 52 costumes from 1,000 years of European fashion history. It offers another cultural highlight in Central Saxony.
Discover more destinations: Berthelsdorf/Erzgebirge, Leubsdorf, Eppendorf, Frauenstein, Erlau, Hilbersdorf, Frankenstein, Döbeln
For the main travel overview: Central Saxony.
