The Ore Mountains are one of a kind in Germany and considered to be one of the most stunning low mountain ranges in the country. Apart from its natural beauty, it is a region rich in history connected to the silver ore mining industry which goes back to the 12th century, with the last mines closing in the 1970ies. In 2019, this unique mining heritage was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Arts and crafts lovers should not miss the Ore Mountains during the festive season when it’s all about handmade wooden pyramids, candle arches, nutcrackers and other Christmas decorations that have become collector’s items around the world. You’re more the active type? No problem! Be it hiking, mountain biking or skiing, the Ore Mountains‘ great outdoors has something in store for every season.
Ore Mountains
Don’t miss: best of Ore Mountains
Get on the Pressnitztalbahn narrow gauge railway from Jöhstadt to Steinbach to enjoy a combination of historical flair and natural beauty at its best.
Built in the 16th century, Augustusburg Castle is considered one of the most beautiful Renaissance castles in Central Europe. Explore the castle museum and enjoy fantastic views of the surrounding area from the observation tower. Because of its imposing location and architecture, the castle is also known as the "Crown of the Ore Mountains".
Climb up Saxony's highest mountain onboard the Fichtelberg suspension railway: It’s 1,175 metres long, covers 303 metres in altitude and the ride takes 3.54 minutes, lots of fun and fascinating views included!
Explore Annaberg-Buchholz on a leisurely stroll and enjoy the historic mining town’s romantic old town, its narrow streets lined by magnificent houses and the majestic late-Gothic St. Anne´s Church.
To dive deep into the region‘s mining history visit one of the show mines, e.g., in Annaberg-Buchholz, Freiberg or Altenberg.
Full of sparkle and shine, terra mineralia in Freiberg Castle is the largest and most beautiful exhibition of minerals and natural treasures in Germany.
Cycling in the Ore Mountains
Saxony’s Ore Mountains are a dream destination for cycling enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're up for the challenge of the legendary Stoneman Miriquidi, looking for a family-friendly ride on the scenic Blockline, or ready to push your limits in the Stoneman Miriquidi Road race, there’s a route for every level of skill and ambition. With winding trails through picturesque valleys and peaceful, forested landscapes, biking in the Ore Mountains is not only a great workout - it’s a refreshing escape for the soul.
Special tips for this summer
Discover the newly opened Purple Path- one of the leading projects of the European Capital of Culture program and absolutely worth a visit. The open-air art and sculpture trail showcases works by international and national artists, telling stories of people, craftsmanship, and 850 years of mining history in the Chemnitz region.
Get your kicks in Oberwiesenthal, with the world’s longest zipline. You’ll start at a height of 1,200m and will float like a bird along the 1,500m line down to the valley. Open from May to October
Open your eyes to the beauty of the Ore Mountains scenery with its peaceful forests, rivers, streams and picturesque meadows. Have a look which hiking trail would suit you most.
Interested in traditional handicraft? Explore the “toy village” of Seiffen, known for its intricate wooden art and take a peek in the local workshops to see how it’s done.
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