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Municipality in Saxony, Germany
Photo: User: (WT-shared) Fluglotse2000 at wts wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 1.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Rathen is a spa town in Saxon Switzerland, Germany. It is close to the Bastei, the most famous rock formation and spectacular viewpoint in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. Rathen is a popular tourist destination, the main sights are the Bastei cliffs, the Amselsee (a lake), and the outdoor theatre, "Felsenbühne Rathen".
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A group of rock outcroppings that form a popular tourist destination in Saxon Switzerland. They offer spectacular views of the Elbe and you can see the remains of an old medieval stronghold.
Using the Bastei rock as a defensive position, the remains of this 13th-century-castle are now an open-air-museum.
An attractive open-air theatre in a beautiful natural surrounding. Stagings include Karl May's works (like "Winnetou") and the romantic opera Der Freischütz ("The Marksman") by Carl Maria von Weber, using elaborate stage effects like fireworks and horses.
The hotel runs several places to eat, from the Panoramarestaurat with great views and steep prices, a Hotel restaurant with open log fire to beer garden and snack places. Opening times vary, depending on the season. Contact see Hotel.
It is in prominent position on the Bastei rock with splendid views. Pricey.
By train
The train ride from Prague takes 2½ hours, from Berlin just under three hours (change in Bad Schandau).
By bus
For travellers heading directly to the Bastei, the OVPS public bus route 237 links the Bastei with Pirna and Sebnitz railway stations.
By boat
There is also a seasonal (tourist) steamer service from Dresden (prices and travel time are significantly higher than by train).
By bicycle
The town is a stop along the Elbe Radweg.
The village is absolutely walkable, and the stiff ascent up to the Bastei may only be done on foot.
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Dresden · International · DRS
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