Germany, Fichtelberg: Splendid Vista of the Ore Mountains

The Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) have the highest mountain in their area in the Czech Republic (Klínovec 1 244 m). In Germany, there is bit lower Fichtelberg. It is the highest mountain in Saxony. It rises to 1 215 m. It is only 6 kilometers away from Klinovec.

The best place to start a trek to Fichtelberg is at Oberwiesenthalu, a mountain town in Germany is called the „highest town in Germany“ for it is at 914 meters. It takes about two hours on D7 freeway to get from Prague to the Ore Mountains.

Once you are in Oberwiesenthal, you may leave your car next to „Hotel Am Fichtelberg“. There is a free parking space after the last more steep turn. Go up hill towards huge hotel in the shape of a cuboid. Once you are at the level of the hotel, turn left and follow yellow markings. The entire trek to Fichtelberg is about 5 kilometers long. The first two kilometers follow a pebble road. The sun plays with tree shadows at any given time of a day. 15-45 cm high perennial plants with many white blossoms grow on meadows. These create majorty of the vegetation in the Ore Mountains. A wooden sighboard informs that you have passed 1000 meters above sea level.

There is a road where the restauran "Neues Haus" stands at the end of the pathway. Be careful when crossing the road and head towards the restaurants. Then you will see the view of the Ore Mountains. Stoneman Miriquidi bike trail joins your trail. You have only 500 meters before you reach your destination.

Perfect! You have reached your destination! You have a unique opportunity to view the panorama of the Ore Mountains, Bohemian Highlands and its Milesovka, Doupovske Mountains, Slavkovsky forest, the Fichtelgebirge, and also (in good weather conditions) the Krkonose, and Sumava.

A bell was made and transported to Fichtelberg to commemorate the 20th anniversary of German re-unification (October 3rd). It is plumpy, weights 1600 kg, and has 1,35 meters. The oldest cable car in Germany can get you to the top. It was constructed in 1924. Its length is 1175 meters across 305 meters of elevation. A ride takes about 6 minutes.

A one day trip including a 10-kilometer trek (there and back) can be managed also by families with children. The best impression? I set off to Fichtelberg after work on Friday. I hadn't met one tourist during the entire journey. Very rare experience. And I, Fichtelberg, thank you for that.

GPS: 50°25'43.8"N 12°57'16.4"E

Text and photos: Šárka Vacková