Königstein: Hike to the Lilienstein

The unmistakable Lilienstein is the only table mountain on the right bank of the Elbe (viewed downstream) in the Saxon Switzerland National Park. It is visible from many vantage points in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains and stands out right next to the Königstein. Only the Elbe separates these two monumental mountain giants.

Not even Augustus the Strong could resist climbing it. An obelisk dating from 1708 still commemorates the monarch’s memorable visit to the summit. The ascent from the Elbe Valley is short but strenuous. In return, you’ll be rewarded with 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. Right between the houses, a very steep footpath leads upward. The trail continues with a gentle incline along the Kirchweg at the edge of the forest and along the steep slope of the Elbe. This brings you to Sellnitz, an old hermitage.

In the meadow, there are numerous nature-themed stations. Swap your cell phone for a “tree phone” for a moment, or feel the different soil textures on the barefoot trail. You’re sure to find a spot here for a picnic to recharge your energy for the climb.

Now the trail becomes significantly steeper. The northern ascent to the Lilienstein is short but challenging, leading uphill over stone steps and iron ladders close to the rock face. On the expansive summit plateau, a loop trail with steps, ladders, and grating leads to numerous breathtaking views in all directions. Whether it’s the view toward Rathen and the Bastei to the north, toward Königstein Fortress and the Pfaffenstein to the south, or eastward, across Bad Schandau and the Elbe River to the Schrammsteine and the Zirkelstein.

A mountain inn and two historic obelisks are also located on the summit plateau. Downhill, the less steep southern descent winds through the forest. A dirt road takes you to the Hotel Lilienstein. To the right behind its parking lot, the trail leads downhill toward the Königstein ferry.