Bastei is a group of steep sandstone towers in Saxon Switzerland National Park (Sächsische Schweiz) above the Elbe valley. Its symbol is the Bastei Bridge — a wooden, later stone bridge between rock pinnacles over 190 m above sea level; one of the most photographed places in eastern Germany. From Pension Festung in Petrovice near Tisa Rocks you can drive there in about 35–45 minutes depending on route and border crossing — an ideal full-day trip while staying in the Ore Mountains on the Czech–German border.
Geologically it is the same massif as Bohemian Switzerland on the Czech side — sandstone, viewpoints and deep valleys. Many guests combine Bastei with Königstein, a boat trip from Kurort Rathen or an afternoon in Dresden.
Why visit Bastei from Petrovice
- Icon of the region — world-famous bridge and rock scenery.
- Large trail network — loops of varying difficulty, links to Felsenburg Neurathen.
- Border location — shorter drive from Petrovice than from much of Bohemia; morning in Czechia, day in Saxony.
- Pair with Bohemian Switzerland — compare “both sides” of the sandstone during one stay.
Practical tips
Parts of the site and parking may be charged; expect crowds in season — arrive early or use public transport from nearby towns. The bridge and viewpoints are reached on foot from car parks at Lohmen or from Kurort Rathen station (ferry or walk depending on season). Bring ID, motorway vignette if your route requires it, sturdy shoes and windproof clothing — it is often windy on the rocks.
Accommodation for Saxon Switzerland
Pension Festung in Petrovice offers quiet accommodation as a base for Bastei and Königstein as well as Tisa Rocks and Hřensko. Book a room with breakfast and plan your stay between Czech and German rock parks without unnecessary driving.