Bastei Rock Bridge

One of the most famous tourist attractions across the border is certainly the Bastei rock bridge, which is one of the biggest landmarks and symbols of Saxon Switzerland. The original name Bastei is a reminder of the defensive set of steep cliffs around the Neurathen rock castle. The rocks on the Bastei were formed by water erosion over millions of years and rise up to 305 metres above sea level.

From the viewpoint called "Bašta" in Czech, you can enjoy views of the Elbe Valley, the stone bridge Basteibrücke, Neurathen Castle and the rock city. It is located near the spa town of Rathen, not far from Pirna, 194 metres above the right bank of the Elbe, about 15 kilometres from the border crossing Hřensko-Schmilka.

The Bastei also includes the stone bridge Basteibrücke, which spans the deep Mardertelle (Boar Pit). It is 76 metres long and connects the viewing platforms of the Bastei with the rock castle of Neurathen. This bridge was built in 1851, making it the first ever tourist bridge in Europe. Especially in the summer season, you will see a real crowd of tourists here, who have been coming and going for more than two centuries.

There are different ways to get to Bastei. You can go by car via Bad Schandau, Porschdorf, Waltersdorf, Rathewalde, then turn down Basteistraße and use the paid parking about 2 km in front of the rock bridge. The walk from the car park to the Bastei is really easy. In high season, many tourists take advantage of the cruises on the Elbe and reach the village of Kurort Rathen by boat from Decin. In addition to the beautiful views from Bastei, you will also see the beauty of the Elbe Canyon and take away another great experience from the trip. The last way to get to Bastei is by rail. By train from Decin to Kurort Rathen is less than an hour, you only have to change once in Bad Schandau. However, the trains do link up nicely. In Kurort Rathen you use the ferry and then climb through the forest to the natural monument itself.

Admission

There is no admission fee on the Bastei rock bridge, the remains of the castle ruins and the Neurathen lookout pay €2.5

For up-to-date information and details, please also visit Bohemian Switzerland or Saxon Switzerland.