Stage 7 of the Malerweg started with a climb: stone steps, then more steps, then ladders, followed again by steep staircases until we had gained nearly 1,000 feet in what felt like minutes. The best part was squeezing through a narrow rock formation known as the Needle Hole—so tight we had to turn sideways to make it through. Coming out on the other side we had gorgeous views across the valley below. We walked along a forested ridge before dropping all the way down to the river and into the small village of Königstein, where a wall chart marked flood levels dating back to 1655. A charming tiny bakery was a must stop, and we lingered over coffee and cake—our favorite German ritual. Our route onward led us toward Weißig, where we came upon an astonishing fortress over 1,100 years old. We climbed its high ramparts and learned about the engineering required to carve a well 1,400 feet deep into solid rock in the 10th century. As sunset came at 4:30, we passed a black sheep farm and followed the rising moon to a cozy inn and dinner, and more cake!!
Pete & Lori's Retirement adventures 