SMQR C-Edition Section 05 Schwartenberg-Holzhau

At almost 787 meters, the Schwartenberg is one of the highest in the Eastern Ore Mountains and offers a wonderful panoramic view. From here, the Stoneman Miriquidi Road route follows a rapid descent to Neuhausen. A landmark that stands for the Ore Mountains like no other welcomes all pedalers: the world's tallest functioning nutcracker, at ten meters, greets them at the Nutcracker Museum. Purschenstein Castle, a relic built in the 12th century, now houses a hotel. The glass museum is located right next door. The craftsmanship on display gives you an idea of why the Ore Mountains were known as the "land of glass" in the Middle Ages. From Neuhausen, the route leads past the idyllic Rauschenbach reservoir. After a short section along the German-Czech border, the route climbs the next ramp, followed by a long, dead-straight descent to the next checkpoint: Holzhau.