A bright, sunny morning in Hohnstein greeted us with a stunning view of the castle as we descended from the mountain village. Stairs, stairs, and more stairs—over 800 of them led us down into the valley, only to climb just as many back up to the summit of Brand Mountain. At the top, a cozy log cabin awaited, serving hot chocolate and cake—the perfect hiking reward to enjoy beside a fire while looking out over the valley below.
The trail continued through tiny villages and along forested paths shaded by tall trees. When a light rain began to fall, it deepened the greens of the mosses and brightening the many mushrooms scattered along the way. When we reached Bad Schandau, the sun was setting behind the old church in the town center.
Pete & Lori's Retirement adventures 