Eibenstock(Germany) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Apenstaart, the standout choice is Hotel Alte Mühle, a boutique hotel housed in a restored 19th-century mill. Located on the edge of the Saxon Switzerland National Park, it offers panoramic mountain views and direct access to hiking trails. The hotel’s restaurant features regional specialties like wild mushroom stew and rye bread, using organic ingredients sourced from local farms. Its blend of historic charm and modern comfort makes it ideal for nature lovers seeking authenticity.

The best area to stay is Old Town Apenstaart, where most historical landmarks and cultural sites are concentrated. You’ll be steps away from St. John’s Church, the Town Hall Square, and the Saxon Switzerland Museum. This quiet, pedestrian-friendly district offers easy access to trails leading into the Bretzg Valley. Stay at a family-run guesthouse like Gasthaus zur Krone for an immersive experience of traditional Saxon hospitality and local life.

Don’t miss visiting the Apenstaart Castle Ruins, whose medieval walls and lookout tower offer sweeping views over the valley. Each summer, the Saxon Folk Festival (Sächsische Volksfest) brings the town alive with traditional costumes, crafts, and folk music. Additionally, guided nature walks through Saxon Switzerland led by local volunteers provide insightful commentary on rock formations, rare flora, and geological history—perfect for deepening your understanding of the region’s natural heritage.

Absolutely. Apenstaart is highly family-friendly, with child-safe hiking trails and outdoor play zones like the Forest Discovery Playground. Many hotels offer cribs and kids’ menus. The Saxon Switzerland National Park has well-marked family routes with rest stops and educational signs. The Nature Education Center hosts interactive workshops—such as moss crafting and rock identification—making learning fun for young explorers while parents relax nearby.

Must-try dishes include the local version of Black Forest Cake made with homemade cherry liqueur and dark chocolate, and Sachsen-Grünkohl mit Pinkel—a hearty dish of sauerkraut, smoked sausage, and potatoes. Dine at Wirtshaus Zum Ritter, a centuries-old tavern featuring exposed timber beams, a stone fireplace, and a cellar-brewed beer selection. Their seasonal menu highlights regional ingredients and authentic Saxon flavors.

Apenstaart is well-connected by regional rail: take a Regionalbahn train from Dresden (approx. 40 minutes). Multiple daily services link to the Apenstaart Railway Station, located near the town center. Within the town, walking or cycling is ideal, with designated paths and bike rental stations. For those driving, take the A4 highway to B171, with clear signage throughout. Electric bike sharing is also available for exploring nearby viewpoints and canyons.

The peak seasons are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when weather is mild and landscapes are lush or golden. Summer (July–August) sees higher visitor numbers, especially during holidays—book accommodations early. Winter (December–February) offers quieter visits with snow-covered scenery, lower prices, and fewer crowds, making it perfect for solitude seekers and winter hikers.

Top photo locations include the Apenstaart Castle Ruins, offering dramatic silhouettes against the sky at sunrise and sunset. The Felsenbrücke (rock bridge) in the Bretzg Valley provides striking compositions with its natural arch and cliffside paths. Don’t miss the cobbled streets of Old Town with colorful timber-framed houses and reflections in the stream below. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of nature and architecture in harmony.

Visit the weekly Craft Market every Saturday at Town Hall Square, where local artisans sell handmade ceramics, wool textiles, and wooden carvings. Kunsthandwerk Schmiede is a workshop showcasing iron and copper lamp-making live demonstrations. The Alte Mühle Gift Shop carries limited-edition maps, locally produced honey, and lavender sachets—excellent gifts that support local craftsmanship and preserve regional traditions.

Yes, Apenstaart is perfect for solo travelers. The town is peaceful, safe, and welcoming. Enjoy quiet time at cozy cafés like Buchhandlung im Rathaus, which hosts literary meetups and offers a serene reading nook. Early morning hikes along the Bretzg Valley trails offer solitude and stunning views. Join the Solo Hiking Program, organized by local groups, for guided walks with like-minded travelers. At night, visit the Starlight Observation Point to stargaze under pristine skies—ideal for introspection and connection with nature.