What can you do in Saxon Switzerland in the winter times? You would think there is not much to be wenn or to do. We have been there and have tried it out.
First of all you can do what you would do the rest of the year: Hiking. Most hiking paths are accessible. Also with snow. You should have good shoes, sticks and maybe spikes. But you can go hiking. With or without snow. And you can stopp at an Inn.
Many ‘Baude' are open even in winter. Different opening hours are given at the beginning of a hiking trail so that there should be no surprises when arriving. The menu might be smaller, too, but you will get hot drinks to warm up or cold drinks if you are really thirsty. Tipp: Stay a little bit longer, even after the Baude has closed to enjoy the sunset!
You can also do some sightseeing. This is also possible in winter. The ‘Bastei' looks great with a little bit of snow on it. Some paths might be closed. But it is worth a visit anyway. Hotel and panoramic restaurant are open so that you can have a break, warm up or get something to eat and to drink.
The lift in Bad Schandau is also a nice destination in winter. The lift has shorter operating hours but once you are on top you can have a walk or relax in the ‘Baude'.
Festung Königstein is also open and always a nice spot. Of course you can also just stroll around or discover the huge site with a guide.
In winter there is a Carcassone fan meeting at the ‘Festung' where you can play the famous game in the old castle for hours.
It is also fun to visit the old well. How long does it take until one liter of water arrives a the bottom of the pit? Or have a look at the sub cellar. How many alleys are and steps are there? It also won't get boring.
In case you need a break there is an medieval tavern where there is a cosy fire burning and you get solid food.
The winter village makes another nice destination. You can have a warm spiced wine at the fire place or take a bath in the hot tub. Additionally there is a extensive program with talks, movie evenings, eye training, yoga or live music. It's your choice.
How about a photowalk? You get outside, active, will see nice landscapes and can exchange with like-minded people. And you can indulge into your hobby of photography.
Have you ever tried archery? That is also possible in winter. Yes, also in the snow. But if you don't want to get cold you can have a try in the hall. Concentrating on the aim is supposed to be relaxing and will keep your mind off the daily life.
Or you have a walk through Pirna. Without people and tables and chairs or advertising signs the streets and alleys are even more beautiful. You can admire the wonderful old houses and the doors without being disturbed. So the town has a completely different view. And you might discover one or the other gem that you easily oversee in summer time and have a visit to a café or restaurant. There are some waiting to be discovered in winter times. With a cup of hot steaming chocolate or a specially roasted coffee with a handmade praline or a fresh made piece of cake. Like ‘Eierschecke‘. That's bearable, isn't it?
In case the weather is not so good and you don't want to go outside there are some activities nonetheless.
Have you made your own candles? How about a giving it a try? At the old barn it is cosy and warm and smells of warm wax. You can use the handmade candles as a gift or a nice souvenir.
The National Parc Centre is open all winter and does not only inform about hiking trails but there is a lot more offered – not only for kids. At the exhibitions time flies because you can touch and try everything and you can even learn something.
Culinary arts is another subject in winter. Now the regional speciality of Saxon Switzerland tastes really good: Krautwickel. Many restaurants do have them on their menu and there are some variations like filled with fish or even vegan. It's a must!
Now would also be the time to give yourself a treat and visit a sauna or take a nice hot bath or get a massage. There are a lot of different offers.
If you like sports give the sports center at Pirna a try. There you can play tennis, squash, badminton, billiard, table tennis, table top football or try exercise machines or take part in one of the many offers courses like yoga, zumba or gymnastics.
In case you search quietness you could read a book. We found nice places to find books and also places where you can read a book. It is much more exiting if the author comes from Saxony or the book's story plays around here.
Still not enough? Well nearly every weekend there is a mariner carnival here. With a parade and selfmade floats and all the important figures.
Saxon Switzerland in winter? Let's go!!