Papstdorf: To the Papststein

The hike starts at the bus stop Gasthaus Hoffnung in Papstdorf. From here, the path leads uphill through the small district Rapsdörfel.

Then it continues with wonderful views of the Schrammsteine; one can clearly see the rugged rock formation of the Schrammsteine and the Falkenstein. A few steps further on is a fallow deer enclosure.

Soon afterwards, the path branches left onto the Papststein. Already on the ascent, initial views open up before reaching the summit plateau. From here, there are wide views in all directions: north to Königstein Fortress and the Elbe valley, south to the Bohemian Central Mountains, as well as across the plain to the Zschirnsteine. At the westernmost viewpoint, colorful, heavily weathered rock formations attract the eye.

At the summit stands a mountain inn that has been operated for over 150 years and is known for its rustic atmosphere.

The descent passes the Hunskirchen viewpoint, which owes its name to a distinctive climbing rock. Further down, keep left at the road and again left along the Weinleite. Here, the remains of a large rockfall from 1972 are still clearly visible, when several thousand cubic meters of sandstone fell downhill.

From there, you return to the starting point at the bus stop Gasthaus Hoffnung in Papstdorf.
Back in town, it is worth taking a look at the Papstdorf village church. Notable is the bell tower, which – unlike most other churches – is located on the east side of the nave. From the cemetery, there is also a beautiful view of the landscape.