Welcome to Bad Schandau in Saxony, located right on the Czech Republic border.
Besides the ruins of what was once Burg Lilienstein (circa 1200 A.D.), and the ruins of Burg Wildenstein (from the early 15th century), there’s also the graceful looking castle in the village of Prossen.
Too bad it’s not a medieval castle — but you can’t have everything, I guess.
Ohh, who am I kidding? Yes you can, because Bad Schandau also has its own spa. The Toskana Therme is a perfect place for rest, relaxation, spa treatments like facials and massages, and even a Kneipp stream.
Don’t worry if you can’t do it all in one day — the spa has a great 5-star hotel nearby.
And trust me, you’re gonna want to stick around for a while. How else will you get to bike around the Elbe Cycle Route? Or stroll along the Malerweg? There are a number of themed hiking routes, if you’re interested—like the 14km Caspar David Friedrich Trail. Or take snapshots of picture perfect old churches like the stately looking one in Krippen (with its beautiful clock tower & steeple).
By the way, don’t miss out seeing the 14th/15th century Church of St. John either.
For those who like those half-timbered houses, you’ll find them in the village of Schmeltka — along with a mid 17th century mill. Even better it’s along the Saxon-Switzerland National Park.
Just between you and me, what’s really nice about Bad Schandau is a number of its eight villages aren’t very populated. Seriously, Postelwitz not even 275 people call it home; Schmelka less than 200. You know what that means? Yup, plenty of elbow room for yourself while exploring around the Saxon Switzerland and the Ore Mountains regions.
Ooh, look out for the Sundial Path (there are almost two dozen of them), and check out the National Park Center, and the Local History Museum.
Now I’ve only hinted at what’s to see & do around Bad Schandau, but believe when I tell you there’s more. And the wonderful folks at the Tourist Office (located at Markt 12 in Bad Schandau) will assist in helping you.
Please, they had me at spa and castles.