Nationalpark Sächsische Schweiz: Home to Nature and Adventure
The Nationalpark Sächsische Schweiz or the Saxon Switzerland National Park is located in the German Free State of Saxony. The national park is precisely situated next to Dresden, the capital city of the state. It occupies a total area of 93.5 kilometre square or 36.1 square miles near the German part of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. This surrounding region is known as the Saxon Switzerland or Sächsische Schweiz. The Bohemian Switzerland National Park located in Czech Republic adjoins the Nationalpark Sächsische Schweiz.
Nationalpark Sächsische Schweiz was established on the 1st of October 1990 as a part of the National Park Program of the GDR.
All about the National Park
Nationalpark Sächsische Schweiz is at a distance of 37 kilometres from Dresden and the distance can easily be covered with a simple train ride. Its spectacular landscape and ancient rock formations are quite a spectacular site for the jaywalkers along with the mountainous terrain being a source of adventure for the climbers, and nature lovers just about love everything there is to see.
The National Park is often credited to be the birth place of the free climbing tradition. Its mountains and 1,106 free standing sandstone peaks cumulatively present the best possible climbing environment. In-fact the whole of Saxony is full of varied outdoor climbing sites that provide every chance to kindle the spirits of adventure seekers. Additionally, this site in Saxony offers 21,000 distinct climbing routes in all and they also have tutors who can guide first-timers.
Saxony and all of its climbing routes are governed by extensive rules and regulations. These dictums work in such a way that the recreational activates and natural conservation do not remain mutually exclusive. This is important because in any case the natural habitat should not suffer or be damaged and conservation along with preservation should always go hand in hand.
This unique landscape is also a spectacular for walking tours, as a matter of fact, it is the best in the whole of Europe. Take for instance the Painter’s Way. It is a 112 kilometre long trail and is named so because back in the day painters would frequent the region in search for inspiration. This pathway is in the Elbe Sandstone Massif and is the most famous landmark of Saxon Switzerland. Furthermore, these mountains also came to be known as table-top mountains because of the Bastei rocks’ visual positioning over the Elbe Valley. Overall, the scenery is simply awe-inspiring. Apart from the vivid walking trails, there are also dedicated pathways for cycles, such as the Elbe Cycle Route and bikes.
The Elbe Cycle Route runs along the river Elbe. Elbe despite being the second longest river in Germany, its landscape is the best for various forms of cycling tours. In-fact this route has been winning the spot of the most popular location 12 years straight in the row. If you are wondering, what is so great about the route, then simply try and visualise the river Elbe, coming out of the Czech Republic and flowing straight into the sandstone protrusions in the Nationalpark Sächsische Schweiz. All throughout the route you will witness fantastical rock formations dramatizing the landscape. The route further includes other important tourist sites such as the Semper Opera House in Dresden and the Church of Our Lady. If you go towards north of the route then you are in for a treat. Following in the direction you will be able to reach some of the most fascinating town such as – Torgau, Wittenberg and Dessau. Furthermore, don’t forget to visit Magdeburg’s canal bridge; it is truly a one of a kind site. Another beautiful site is when you reach the North Sea coast where you can wave at the arriving and departing ocean liners. Most of the route comprises of asphalt paths which are dedicated to cyclists. The total length of this route is about 840 kilometres. Moreover, individuals of all age groups can find riding along the route comfortable because it is mostly flat and easily manoeuvrable.
The site is not only appreciated by nature lovers and adventure sports enthusiasts, moreover, there have been quite a number of films and operas that have featured the site as their backdrops, nationally and internationally as well. Some of the most famous operas have been performed amidst the dramatic rock conclaves which are considered to be Europe’s most beautiful open air stage. These are precisely the reasons as to why the region features at the position of number 19 in the Top 100 Sights of Germany.
Additionally, the following is a list of the other national parks within Germany:
- Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park: The Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park is located in the state of Schleswig-Holstein, the northernmost state in Germany. It features a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and endless sandy beaches. There are salty marshes which are the best known spots in the region for bird watching, bike riding and thalassotherapy treatments. You can also simply go on a walk on the mudflats which by the way is an absolute must. These mudflats are a rarity and are not found everywhere in the world. Sometimes, if you are blessed with low tide then hire an expert guide and go on and explore the seabed. This definitely would be an experience of once in a life time. Depending on the weather conditions seals such as the – ommon seals, grey seals, porpoises or the rare white-tailed eagle are frequently spotted resting near the coastline from an adequate distance of-course. One can also visit the Hallig islands which Theodor Storm, a German author famously referred to as dreams floating on the sea”. During high tides, water from the North Sea often floods these islands giving the visual appearance of the floating island.
- Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park: The Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park along with its amazingly fascinating coastal line is situated in the northern section of Germany. It is responsible as a protectorate of coastal mudflats which reach 12,000 hectares in area. This national park is also the smallest among the three Wadden Sea National Parks. The region features a landscape of lush green wetlands in addition to the numerous cultural sites.
- Lower Saxon Wadden Sea National Park: Apart from being the three most important protectorates of the Wadden Sea region, the Lower Saxon Wadden Sea National Park numerous scopes for adventure. Lower Saxon Wadden Sea National Park is situated in the Lower Saxony region of Germany and is the best known location to explore the wetlands that are located along the coast of North Sea. Additionally, there are characteristic salty marshes, sandy dunes which run steep near Dangast and the bog near Sehestedt which is the last of the outer dyke bog in Germany. The mudflats of the region have a temperate environment and it provides adequate conditions for the development of flora and fauna of the region. Among the cultural sites of the locale are – Wattenmeerhaus in Wilhelmshaven, a lightship and the much talked about whalebone fence which is on Borkum, there is also the Fisherman’s House Museum on Norderney which is a must visit in addition to the House Dornumsiel, the German Maritime Museum which is located a bet afar in Bremerhaven and finally, the old lighthouse in Wangerooge. From here you can also visit the East Frisian Islands.
- Jasmund National Park: This picturesque beauty and its chalk cliffs have been a source of inspiration for numerous artists for a very long time. One of the best known painters who would frequent this locale was Caspar David Friedrich, the romantic who lived some 200 years ago. The Jasmund National Park is Germany’s smallest known national park which is located in the eastern end of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Its cliffs reach 117 metres in height and further comprise of some of the earliest known beech forests that date back more than 700 years. This locale is a part of the UNESCO Natural Heritage sites and is situated on the Stubnitz plateau. The national park indeed offers numerous ways through which one can explore and synchronise with the natural environs.
- Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park: It is the largest reserve located on the Baltic coast. Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Parks landscape comprises of cliffs, dunes, spits, lagoons and a peninsula that stretches up towards the western coast of Rugen. The national park is situated in the far north-eastern corner of Germany. There are varieties of ways with which you can explore the region. The most popular being guided tours or independent walks. These trails will take you across the forested regions leading up to the magnificent vantage points such as – Pramort and Hohe Düne. While on these routes you can also take a small detour and go on and explore the salt marshes. Flora and fauna are in their abundance spotting wildlife is quite easy. Red deer’s and wild boars are among the few that can be easily seen. Additionally, the Ahrenshoop artists’ colony, the lighthouse and Natureum on Darsser Ort which is a national park centre located on the largest island here, Hiddensee. You can also visit the Stralsund Museum and take a look at the gold treasures that are housed in here or go on exploring the dune heathland.
- Müritz National Park: The Müritz National Park is one of the largest national parks in Germany. This site features networks of 660 kilometre long dedicated pathways for biking and cycling. Additionally, the park also touches the very long shoreline in the east of Lake Müritz. In-fact this is the largest in the north-eastern German region. Its beech forests, mysterious marshes and lakes which number upwards of 130 cumulatively provide a magical sight. It is located in the stunningly gorgeous Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania which is best known among nature lovers as the most important breeding ground for rare and endangered species of birds. Therefore, one can see many ornithologists frequenting the national park. Here at the Müritz National Park you will also be granted a chance to see some of the rarest of the creatures of the wild up close. Some of the most precious species which can be found in this national park are – white-tailed eagle, Federow and cranes. Authorities of the national park have constructed specially designed hides wherein visitors can patiently wait and witness these wild creatures in their very natural habitat. Another fantastical feature of this national park is the chance of witnessing the Swedish hornless cattle grazing merely while you are one of your regular trail voyages. These cattle’s along with the Gotland sheep were added here in 1969 and the 1980s respectively. Moreover, there are numerous cycling trails through which the region can be explored in depth or you can also be a part of the guided walks which are regularly conducted. You can also go canoeing or take your bikes on one of the large pleasure boats on the river Havel and go around the Alte Fahrt circular route. Another site which is worth a visit is the Heinrich Schliemann Museum which features the works of Heinrich Schliemann, an archaeologist.
- Lower Oder Valley National Park: This national park is quite truly known to have the most beautiful riverside meadow landscape in the whole of Germany. The Lower Oder Valley National Park is as a matter of fact the first meadow based national park in Germany and it covers a massive area of 60 kilometres worth of meadowland which is located on both the sides of the river Oder, additionally, falling in the territories of Germany and Poland. Another incentive of visiting the Lower Oder Valley National Park could be the fantastical picturesque scenic beauty and the flowering dry grasslands. It is situated in the north-eastern side of Germany within the Brandenburg region. Lower Oder Valley National Park is best known for its majestic wildlife. It is a crucial protected habitat for various varieties of endangered species of birds such as the white-tailed eagle, black stork and aquatic warbler. In addition to that there are over 50 different varieties of mammals and 40 species of fishes that can be found here. It also is located on the migratory route of cranes. So during the season the entire region roosts up to the calling of cranes particularly along with different species of birds. Along with the natural, the national park also features some of the most gorgeous and rather haunting architectural marvels such as the Stolpe Castel and the famous barns of tobacco located in the vicinity of Friedrichsthal. Also, there are two churches – the St. Stephen’s Church and a late-Gothic church which are located in Grats and Criewen respectively and are a must visit site.
- Harz National Park: The Harz National Park is located within the most northerly located mountain range of Germany. The entire region features as the best known walking and skiing destination of this part of the German lands. Furthermore, it falls within the jurisdiction of both Saxony-Anhalt and Lower Saxony. There is a certain kind of mystic awe which surrounds the region. For instance, various regional legends pertaining to witches and demonic figures are sure to keep you entertained and at the same time on your toes as well. There is also a mountain which is 1,132 metres tall and can be easily scaled. Additionally, the park also acts as a wildlife reserve and some of the most fascinating creatures that can be found here are – red deer’s, black woodpeckers and the wildcat. The cultural heritage of the region stems from the towns Goslar and Quedlinburg which date back to the medieval times.
- Kellerwald-Edersee National Park: This is the most popular site for active holidaying and water based adventures. The Kellerwald-Edersee National Park features a splendid Lake Edersee along with majestic scenes of the upland and the ancient beech forests. The entire region is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage site making it an ideal destination for all rounded fun and adventure. It is situated in the northern corners of Hessen and most of the tourists come here to engage with nature by walking, cycling and indulging in water sports. Lake Edersee is 27 kilometres in diameter and is best suited for swimmers and sailing. There are dedicated pathways along the lake which facilitate cyclists and bikers. If you are in search for seclusion then this national park also caters to that need. There are private bay areas where you can indulge in fishing or simply relax on one of the many picturesque lakeside promenades.
- Hainich National Park: The Hainich National Park features in the World Heritage Region of Wartburg Hainach. It once was a military zone but today is the largest deciduous forested area in Europe. This national park is located at the southern end of the Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werra Valley Nature Park. It is precisely situated in between Bad Langensalza, a popular spa town and Eisenach which is home to the Wartburg Castle. The region is best visited in Winters when you can take the sledge rides and explore the region. Hainich National Park is the habitat for some of the oldest trees in the world which date back a 1000 years. Its beech forests are listed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Eifel National Park: The Eifel National Park primarily gets its gravitas from the grand complexes of Oak woods and the numerous plummeting streams along with the mysterious twists and turns of the ravines. Here, one gets a chance to live within the natural environs exploring the mysterious plant life and animal species. The national park is located in the northern section of the Eifel region within North Rhine-Westphalia. It is the first of the national parks which was created to conserve and protect the upland beech forests which is on acidic soil. These forested sections lay in constant exposure to the harmful Atlantic climate. Moreover, just about a few years back this region was a major asset to the German timber industries, but now it is a protected area which is vital for its 230 species of animal and plant life. If you are lucky enough it is quite easy to spot some of the wild cats here that hunt for mice and beavers who are industriously involved in constructing their lodges in one of the many streams that flow here. It is an excellent destination for bird watching. You can frequently spot various species of bats and kingfishers indulging in the tranquil natural environment of the national park. Visitors can also engage themselves by exploring the magnificent florals which are there in full bloom during spring time. Additionally, the Eifel National Park offers many other activities and attractions that can be either explored independently or by being associated with a guided tour group.
- Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park: This Park Features one of the most dramatic backdrops. It is one of the best known outdoor holiday destinations in Germany. The Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park is among the newest of the National Parks which is centrally located in the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park. Its exceptional beauty comprises of upland landscapes along with beech trees, wildcats and magical moors. All in all this National Park is just about perfect for walking and biking.
- Bavarian Forest National Park: The Bavarian Forest National Park was establsied in the year 1970 as the first National Park of Germany and was further expanded to 243 kilometres squared, its present size by the year 1997. It is located in the Free State of Bavaria which is further in the south eastern section of Germany. The Bohemian National Park adjoins the Bavarian Forest National Park in the east and together they form an area of largest protected forested lands in Europe. The national park works on the principal of letting the nature be as it is, growing and expanding, developing its own unrestricted reign. Bavarian Forest National Park also features over 300 kilometres of marked pathways in addition to the 200 kilometre long cycling route and the 80 kilometre long cross country ski trail. 95 % of the region is densely forested and are also characterised by clear mountain streams and enigmatic moors. There is also a glacial lake, the Lake Rachelsee. It is the prized attraction of the region. Bavarian Forest National Park acts as a protected habitat for creatures such as – eagle owls, Ural owls, ravens, otters, wood grouse, hazel grouse and three-toed woodpeckers. Visitors are allowed to camp on the Mount Falkenstein. It is a kind of a wilderness play area which is evenly enjoyed by children and adults. One can also visit the St. Oswald Museum or the Hans-Eisenmann-Haus information centre, located near to Neuschönau. These centres will satiate all the curiosities one might have pertaining to the history of Bavaria and the national parks of Germany.
- Berchtesgaden National Park: Vivid lakes, the grandiose of the mountains and the lush green forested lands – these are the hallmark features of the Berchtesgaden National Park. It is located in the southern Bavarian region and is among the oldest of the conservatories in the Alps. This national park offers a total of 260 kilometres worth of footpaths and mountain trails. Along with this, there is also a the Lake Königssee and the much exciting mountain lodges. It is a haven for extreme sports enthusiasts and adventure lovers. You can go paragliding or hand gliding or climb the mountains in this region which scale as high as 2,713 metres or go snowboarding across the landscape. For everyone else there is the cable car ride that can take you to the edge of the national park and make you reach a height of 1,800 metres. There are breath taking gorges and rocky ravines – all in all making Berchtesgaden National Park a paradise for everyone.
- Black Forest National Park: The Black Forest National Park is spread over 10,000 hectares worth of land in Baden-Württemberg. This national park comprises of mountains which reach over 1,000 metres in height and provide its visitors with splendid views. Sunlight passes through the various mountain streams making it a sight of wondrous marvel. Here you witness nature in all its magnificent glory; therefore, it features on the position of number 11 in the Top 100 sights of Germany. The national parks department encourages its many visitors to take part in the various events that they organise and learn more about the forests.