From Königstein to Lilienstein

The highly visible Lilienstein is the only table mountain on the right side of the Elbe (looking downstream) in the Saxon Switzerland National Park. It is visible from many viewpoints in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains and holds its own right next to the Königstein. Only the Elbe separates the two monumental mountain giants. 

Even August der Starke did not miss the chance to hike up the mountain. An obelisk dating from 1708 still commemorates the monarch's memorable presence on the summit. The ascent from the Elbe Valley is short but also exhausting. The reward is a fantastic panoramic view from the summit plateau.

The starting point of your hike is the town of Königstein. The ferry takes you to the other side of the Elbe to the Halbestadt district. Follow the blue line as a marker. Immediately between the houses, a very steep footpath leads up. Continue on the Kirchweg (church path) along the edge of the forest and the steep edge of the Elbe slope. This takes you to the Sellnitz, an old hermitage.

On the meadow there are numerous stations on the theme of nature. Swap your mobile phone for a tree phone for a moment or feel different ground textures on the barefoot path. You are sure to find a spot for a picnic here to recharge your batteries for the ascent. 

Now it gets much steeper. The northern ascent of the Lilienstein is short but demanding and leads uphill over stone steps and iron ladders close to the rock. On the extensive summit plateau, a circular path with steps, ladders and gratings leads to numerous uplifting views in all directions. Be it the view to Rathen and the Bastei in the north, to the Königstein Fortress and the Pfaffenstein in the south or across to the east, over Bad Schandau and the Elbe to the Schrammsteinen and the Zirkelstein.

There is also a mountain inn and two historical obelisks on the mountain plateau. Downhill, the less steep southern descent winds through the forest. A field path brings you to the Hotel Lilienstein. On the right behind its car park, the hiking trail leads downhill towards the Königstein ferry.