Central Saxony GEOPARK

When volcanoes spewed fire ...

Rocks can be found all over the world. This is hardly surprising, as our Earth’s crust is up to 70 kilometres thick and has a diverse composition. Some regions are of particular geological significance. GEOPARKS are established in such areas, including in the geographical centre of Saxony. There is much to discover in the region between Dresden and Freiberg. Geoscientific rarities and scenic beauty invite visitors to follow in the footsteps of the Earth’s past and gain a better understanding of the connections between geology, nature and life.

Geo Information Point at the Old Naundorf Station, Central Saxony Geopark

Top experiences in the GEOPARK of Central Saxony

Discover nature and cultural history

This is where true natural treasures come to light! Whether in the form of imposing rock faces, such as at the ‘Porphyrfächer’ National Geotope, or in the depths of old mining tunnels. Numerous themed trails, well-signposted walking, cycling and horse-riding routes, reservoirs and four GEO information points offer a glimpse into a time when Saxony was still covered by seas and volcanoes spewed fire. There are also fascinating stories to be told from the more recent past. New and exclusive to the GEOPARK are the digital treasure hunts – using the “Actionbound” app.

Geological open-air museum Porphyrfächer Mohorn- Grund

The geotope "Porphyrfächer" at the Schmieders Graben is the center of the Geological Open Air Museum in the Tharandt Forest.

Forest Botanical Garden Tharandt - Saxon State Laboratory

The Forest Botanical Garden Tharandt invites visitors to experience a unique diversity of plants. With its more than 3000 species from 182 plant f...

Geotop "Einsiedlerstein"

Der Einsiedlerstein in der Dippoldiswalder Heide stellt einen von einer Gruppe freistehender, herausgewitterter Sandsteinblöcke dar, um die sich e...

Niederschöna Sandstone Quarry, Central Saxony Geopark

Walking and cycling tours

Adventure at every turn

There are six GEO-adventures to be found at different locations throughout the GEOPARK. Equipped with a tablet and a rucksack, children, young people and families can enjoy exciting adventures, solve puzzles and, at the same time, learn a little about nature and the geology beneath their feet.

Drinking Water Educational Trail Lehnmühle - Klingenberg

The drinking water educational trail between the Lehnmühle and Klingenberg reservoirs provides information on 16 information boards about the precious resource water and geological features.

From Freital along the Rote Weißeritz through the Rabenauer Grund

This hike takes us from Freital-Coßmannsdorf along the Rote Weißeritz through the Rabenauer Grund to Spechtritz. We then take the historic Weißeritz Valley Railway back to Freital.

2nd route: Hiking through the volcanic basin - geology & old mining in the caldera "Tharandt Forest"

An adventurous route through the Tharandt Forest, which lies in an old volcanic basin – a caldera – and is still considered the classic geologists' square mile.

Beautiful natural scenery and a wealth of variety

Freital

Freital is a young town brimming with nature, nostalgia, art and adventure, which delights visitors with its numerous cycling and walking trails.

Where ruby-red bells ring out

Wilsdruff

Discover Wilsdruff, the gateway to the countryside, with its historic sights, fragrant incense stick factory and fascinating nature experiences.

Romantic Whispers from the Mill

Klipphausen

In the municipality of Klipphausen, you’ll find the romance of nature and a love of walking, the charm of country life and an invigorating cultural programme.