The Kirnitzschtalbahn has been in operation since 1898, carrying hikers, tourists and spa guests to their destinations. It is Germany’s only tram that enters a national park. In Kirnitzschtal, you can discover tramway traditions, historic mills and rocky landscapes in various ways: by tram, on hiking trails or by bike.
Plan by tram, hiking trail or bike
The Flößersteig follows the route of historic timber rafting through Kirnitzschtal, from the mouth of the Kirnitzsch to Neumannmühle. The trail is around 13 kilometres long and has numerous information boards. Sections of the trail can be incorporated into circular hikes in the national park.
Hiking experience is important on the Flößersteig: it is suitable for experienced hikers, as some sections are very narrow, exposed and difficult to walk. Conditions depend on the weather. If you include this route in your plans, take the described trail conditions and the weather into account.
The Sebnitz–Kirnitzschtal circular cycling route offers a different focus. It runs from Sebnitz into Kirnitzschtal and back again. This means two different ways of getting around are available: a roughly 13-kilometre hiking route steeped in timber-rafting history, and a cycling route between Sebnitz and the valley.
Mills with different histories
NeumannmĂĽhle is the only mill in Kirnitzschtal that has retained almost all of its original appearance. Its older section was a board mill with a single-blade saw frame. This section has remained virtually unchanged since the mill was founded and is at least 450 years old. Its technical equipment includes a breastshot waterwheel with a diameter of 4.80 metres.
BuschmĂĽhle tells a different story: its grinding and saw mills have been unused since 1992, but are still intact. BuschmĂĽhle was first mentioned in a document as early as 1592. At NeumannmĂĽhle, the emphasis is on its preserved original appearance and age; at BuschmĂĽhle, it is on the long period since its first mention and the condition of its mills.
FelsenmĂĽhle adds a tradition of hospitality to this picture. For over 100 years, it has been a popular place to stop for refreshments in Kirnitzschtal. Together, the three mills illustrate different aspects of regional history: preserved architecture, former grinding and sawing technology, and a long-standing place to stop for refreshments.
Rock formations, water and wildlife watching
Kuhstall is located on the Neuer Wildenstein above Kirnitzschtal. The natural sandstone arch is about 11 metres high, 17 metres wide and 24 metres deep. The so-called Himmelsleiter (Sky Ladder) leads via metal steps through a narrow rock cleft to a small viewing platform. From there, you can see the Bärenfangwände and the surrounding rocky landscape. Alternatively, an easier path leads to the plateau, where there has been an inn since 1842.
The Kirnitzsch Gorge, with the Obere Schleuse, lies in the upper part of Kirnitzschtal, near Hinterhermsdorf. The “Obere Schleuse” boat trip in the vicinity is accessible only on foot. Bear this restriction in mind when planning if you would like to include the trip in your excursion.
With a little patience and luck, you can spot the white-throated dipper in Kirnitzschtal. It is the only songbird that can dive in flowing water. The Kirnitzschtal Festival takes place in Kirnitzschtal every year; check the dates for the year you plan to travel.
Lichtenhain Waterfall is a historic water spectacle and one of the most traditional excursion destinations in Saxon Switzerland. Since the 19th century, it has attracted hikers, nature lovers and people seeking relaxation. Historically, when there was enough water in the reservoir, the weir was opened, causing Lichtenhain Creek to roar loudly for a short time.
Getting there and finding your way around
There are only a few parking spaces in Kirnitzschtal. Bus and/or the Kirnitzschtalbahn are recommended for getting there and back. Lichtenhain Waterfall can be reached by bus route 241 and the Kirnitzschtalbahn; the stop is about a three-minute walk away. Check the timetables for the transport services mentioned for your travel date, as seasonal variations should be taken into account.
Discover more destinations: Dorfhain, Liebstadt, Bahretal, Klingenberg, Bannewitz, Reinhardtsdorf-Schöna, Lohmen, Altenberg.
Back to the regional travel overview: Saxon Switzerland.
