KOMPASS GRK 3708 Saxony

Destination: Rivers shape Saxony and South Brandenburg: the Neisse and Oder are the border rivers, while the Spree flows through Lusatia and the Spreewald. The Saxon Switzerland National Park protects the unique world of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains with its bizarre sandstone needles, rock cliffs, and ancient beech forests. A fascinating water landscape is the Spreewald, which invites visitors to take a boat trip. The Spree has branched out extensively here, complemented by numerous canals and a valuable floodplain and moorland landscape. Historical mining towns, impressive castles and palaces, and traditional craftsmanship characterize the Ore Mountains. Four narrow-gauge railways offer romantic exploration trips. Sporty cyclists are recommended to try the Erzgebirge-Vogtland ridge trail. Cycling is highly promoted in Saxony: the Elbe Cycle Path, Spree Cycle Path, and Oder-Neisse Cycle Path open up some of the most beautiful river landscapes in Germany. In Brandenburg, cycling paths along the Havel, Spree, Oder, and Neisse beckon. The 186 km long Lakes Round leads through the Lusatian Lake District, which emerged after the end of lignite mining. Notable sights include the Renaissance town of Torgau, the porcelain town of Meissen with Albrechtsburg, and Saxony's capital Dresden with its Frauenkirche and Zwinger. UNESCO World Heritage sites include Dessau, Wörlitz, the Luther city of Wittenberg, and Muskauer Park in Bad Muskau.