Your hotel directly on the Elbe for hiking vacations in style
Our largest hotel is beautifully situated on the banks of the Elbe in the idyllic health resort Rathenin the middle of the Saxon Switzerland National Park. The Zeitgeist Rathen is the perfect starting point for all those who hiking, nature and wellness wellness. Here you will find peace, comfort and a real panoramic view – and you can reach the famous Bastei Bridge on foot in just 30 minutes.
Our hotel in Saxon Switzerland offers you a spacious spa area with panoramic pool, sauna and sun terrace – ideal for recharging your batteries after an eventful day in the rocky landscapes.
The arrival highlight: the Rathen yaw rope ferrywhich takes you silently across the Elbe – with a spectacular view of the rocky landscape. Your vacation begins with a moment of relaxation.
Sauna & steam bath from 14-20 hrs
(closed on Sundays)
Ferry ticket to the hotel (included)
Our rooms & suites
Details about Zeitgeist Rathen by STEIGER Hotels
Most popular equipment
- large indoor pool
- Non-smoking room
- WLAN included
- Family room
- Coffee and tea facilities in all rooms
- Breakfast
- Dinner included
Bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Towels
- Bathtub or shower
- Private bathroom
- WC
- Bathrobe
- Hair dryer
Bedroom
- Bed linen
- Cupboard
Outdoor area
- Sun deck from 10-19 h
Pets
Activities
Living area
- 1 armchair per room
Media & Technology
- Flat screen TV
- TV
Food & Drinks
- Wine/sparkling wine
- Child-friendly buffet
- Children's meals
- Meals for special dietary requirements (on request)
- Minibar
- Coffee and tea facilities
Internet
- WLAN is available in all areas and is free of charge.
Parking facilities
- Public parking spaces are available on the other side of the Elbe, approx. 7 € per day
Services
- Food bowl
- Pet basket
- Self check-in/out
- Luggage storage
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Fax and photocopying facilities
Additional fees -
Express check-in/out
Additional fees -
Conference and event rooms
Additional fees
Reception service
- Contact person on site from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Self-Check In
Security
- Fire extinguisher
- Smoke detector
- Access with key card
General
- Air conditioning (from 07.2025)
- Non-smoking accommodation (all public and private areas are non-smoking areas)
- Heating
- Carpet
- Elevator
- Family room
- Non-smoking room
Indoor pool
- All age groups
- 8-20:00 h
- Reclining area
Wellness
- Steam bath 14-20:30
- Finnish sauna 14-20:30
Spoken languages
- Czech
- German
- English
- Polish
Budget double room (with impairment)
- 1 double bed
- Savings option due to poor outlook
Number of guests
Double room attic
- 1 double bed
- Extra bed option
Number of guests
Double room | Superior room
- 1 double bed
- Balcony
Number of guests
Family room
- Double bed
- Sofa bed
Number of guests
4-bed room
- 1 double bed
- Bunk bed
Number of guests
Family apartment
- 3 x double bed
- Bunk bed
- Sofa bed
Number of guests
Arrival & Departure
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Arrival:
From 14:00 to 21:00
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Departure:
From 08:00 to 11:00 a.m.
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No age restriction
There is no age restriction for check-in.
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Groups:
When booking more than 5 rooms, different policies and additional supplements may apply.
- The following cards are accepted at this hotel
Cash payment not accepted!
Informative
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Cancellation/ prepayment
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation category. Please read the terms and conditions of each option before making your selection.
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Children and beds
Guidelines for children Children of all ages are welcome. Children 4 years of age or older pay the adult rate at this property. Please add the number of children in your party and their ages to your search to see the correct rates and occupancy information. Baby crib and extra bed policy The number of baby cribs depends on the option you choose. Please check your selected option for more information. Extra beds are not available at this property. All baby cribs are subject to availability.
- Parties/events are not permitted.
Parking & ferry in Rathen ⛴
Rathen is a car-free climatic health resorttherefore it is not possible to drive directly to the hotel. Please enter “Elbweg | Oberrathen” in the navigation system and park in the municipal parking lot in Oberrathen.
🚘Parking fee: approx. 7-9 €/day (to be paid at the parking machine)
🎫Discount for our guests: You can get a 50% discount on your ticket at our bar.
⛴️ Transfer to the hotel (included):
The ferry commutes daily and takes you relaxed to the other side of the Elbe – a perfect start to your vacation! 🌊 The last ferry crossing from Niederrathen is at 11:50 pm and from Oberrathen at 11:55 pm.
Does the accommodation Zeitgeist Rathen by STEIGER Hotels have a pool?
Yes, this hotel has an indoor pool. It can be used from 7:30-20:30.
Can I travel to Hotel Zeitgeist Rathen by STEIGER Hotels by car?
No, that is not possible.
Our hotel is located in Niederrathen. This part of the village is not accessible by car. You can arrive in Oberrathen and from there take the ferry to the hotel (included in the price).
What are the check-in and check-out times at Zeitgeist Rathen by STEIGER Hotels?
Check-in at the accommodation Zeitgeist Rathen by STEIGER Hotels is from 14:00, check-out is until 11:00. It is a self-check-in at a check-in terminal. If you need help, contact persons are on site.
How much does it cost to stay at Zeitgeist Rathen by STEIGER Hotels?
Prices at Landidyll Hinterhermsdorf by STEIGER Hotels may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates selected, hotel policy, etc.). If you enter your dates, you can see the prices.
What activities does the accommodation Zeitgeist Rathen by STEIGER Hotels offer ?
The accommodation Landidyll Hinterhermsdorf by STEIGER Hotels offers the following activities/services (fees may apply):
- Indoor pool 7:30-20:30
- Sun deck
- Sauna from 14-20:30
- Hiking
- Tours on foot
The accommodation Zeitgeist Rathen by STEIGER Hotels is centrally located in Saxon Switzerland.
Our Hotel Zeitgeist Rathen is centrally located in Saxon Switzerland in the well-known vacation resort of Rathen. The hotel is uniquely located directly on the Elbe and cannot be reached by car.
Our inclusive services
An unforgettable time out that you can enjoy with all your senses: that’s what your vacation with us should be like.
Living
- Mini-bar fridge
- Private bathroom
- Bathroom with make-up mirror and hairdryer
- Free bicycle parking (neighboring hotel)
- free WLAN
- A bottle of mineral water on arrival.
Wellness & relaxation
- Indoor pool 7:30-20:00
- Sauna 14-20:30
- Steam bath 14-20:30
- Bathrobe
Catering
- Breakfast buffet from 8-10 am
- 2-course dinner from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (buffet)
- Vegetarian or vegan diet
- Individual attention to allergy sufferers, guests with food intolerances or dietary habits (subject to prior notification)
- Packed lunches available (surcharge)
Discover the spa town of Rathen
A picturesque climatic health resort in the middle of Saxon Switzerland
The state-recognized climatic health resort Rathen lies embedded in the impressive rocky landscape of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains – a perfect retreat for all those who love nature, peace and exercise and exercise. Whether hiking, cycling or simply strolling along the Elbe: Rathen combines relaxation with closeness to nature and a dose of adventure.
Particularly popular: the Rathen Railway Worldsone of the largest garden model railroad layouts in the world – lovingly designed and a real highlight for railroad fans of all ages.
Excursions around the Steiger Hotel Zeitgeist Rathen
🌉 Bastei Bridge & Neurathen Rock Castle
A real must! In just 30 minutes, you can reach the world-famous Bastei Bridge with its breathtaking panorama via the Amselgrund. Tip: set off early – then the view is almost all yours.
🌲 Schwedenlöcher & Amselgrund
An adventurous trail through cool crevices and mossy steps – ideal on warm days. The circular route takes you directly from the hotel via Amselsee and Schwedenlöcher back to Rathen.
🚶 Blackbird Lake & Blackbird Falls
Romantic walk along the glistening lake, past steep rock faces – perfect for a short tour with a stop for refreshments. Boats can be hired at Amselsee depending on the season.
🪨 Lilienstein & Elbe panorama
For experienced hikers, the ascent to the Lilienstein – one of the most striking table mountains in the region – is worthwhile. An incomparable view of the Elbe valley and the Baste rock massif awaits you from the summit
Experience Saxon Switzerland
Family hiking in Saxon Switzerland
There’s no room for boredom here!
Little explorers, big views: Saxon Switzerland offers ideal hiking trails for families with children. Whether adventurous rock formations, fairytale gorges or leisurely paths with space to run around – every tour is an experience here.
Our recommendations for your family trip:
Upper lock circular route in Hinterhermsdorf
Comfortable, close to nature and with a special highlight: a romantic boat trip through the Kirnitzschklamm gorge – an adventure that will make children’s eyes light up!
Pfaffenstein with Barbarine
Exciting caves, small climbing sections and the famous rock needle make this route a real experience for schoolchildren.
Bastei tour from Stadt Wehlen
A classic with a wow effect: enjoy the view, marvel at nature and hike at the same time – a real hit for children too!
Cowshed & sky ladder at Lichtenhain waterfall
Start with the historic Kirnitzschtalbahn, through the forest to the “Kuhstall” and at the end dare a small test of courage on the sky ladder – perfect for families with a spirit of discovery.
Panorama trail Rathen (buggy-friendly!)
Ideal for small children or baby carriages. Wide paths, great views and plenty of opportunities for a picnic break.
Tip: Plan enough time for breaks, games and little discoveries along the way. This will turn every hike into a shared adventure with lasting memories.
After hiking?
In our family-friendly Steiger Hotels, cozy rooms, delicious food and pure relaxation await – perfect for little adventurers and big connoisseurs.
Hiking tours for advanced hikers
For all those who want to go higher.
Steep ascents, narrow crevices and sweeping panoramic views: Saxon Switzerland is an Eldorado for experienced hikers looking for something special. Challenging routes, some with steps and ladders, demand stamina and concentration – and reward you with breathtaking nature.
Our highlights for experienced hiking fans:
Affensteine & Carolafelsen
One of the most spectacular tours in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains! Over narrow paths and through wildly romantic gorges to the Carola Rock – with fantastic views over the rock labyrinth of the Schrammsteine.
Schrammsteine ridgeway
Only for sure-footed hikers with a head for heights! This via ferrata-like tour leads over iron ladders and secured paths directly along the ridge – including magnificent views.
Großer Winterberg & Kipphorn view
A physically demanding circular hike that impresses with its tranquillity, unspoilt nature and fabulous views of the Elbe valley. Ideal for nature lovers with stamina.
Wild Hell & Holy Stairs
The name says it all: narrow crevices, steep iron ladders and a real sense of adventure make this tour an exciting challenge – absolutely worthwhile!
Rauenstein circular trail with Swedish holes
A somewhat shorter but intensive tour with lots of steps, fantastic views and a partly alpine character – perfect as a half-day high-altitude trail.
Important:
These tours require sure-footedness, sturdy footwear and a good basic level of fitness. Please plan sufficient water, weather protection and, if necessary, a headlamp for early or late start times.
Tip:
After the tour, relaxing wellness areas, regional cuisine and a cool drink on the sun terrace await you at our Steiger Hotels – you’ve earned it!
Experience culture in Saxon Switzerland
Discover history, art & regional passion.
Between rocks and river valleys lies a cultural landscape full of surprises. Saxon Switzerland not only offers magnificent nature, but also deep insights into the history, art and tradition of the region. From ancient castles and opera house moments to small, lovingly run museums – this is a place where the heart of culture beats faster.
Our cultural highlights for your stay:
Königstein Fortress
One of the largest mountain fortresses in Europe towers high above the Elbe. Exciting exhibitions, underground casemates and a unique view make this place a must for all history enthusiasts.
Rathen rock stage
Theater in the open air – against a spectacular rocky backdrop! Whether opera, drama or a family play: the Felsenbühne enchants with its atmosphere and variety.
Richard Wagner sites in Graupa
Experience music history up close: In the composer’s former summer residence, you can immerse yourself in Wagner’s world and discover how his works were created in this landscape.
Arts and crafts & local culture
In the numerous small studios and workshops – from potters and wood carvers to glass blowers – the traditional crafts of the region live on. Authentic, regional, made with love.
Hohnstein Castle & National Park Center
Culture meets nature: Hohnstein Castle offers exciting insights into medieval regional history, while the National Park Center in Bad Schandau impressively explains natural phenomena – interactively and also exciting for children!
Tip:
Many cultural facilities in the region can be wonderfully combined with a hike or an excursion – ideal for a varied vacation!
Lean back & enjoy:
After a day full of impressions, our Steiger Hotels invite you to relax with comfort, good food and a warm atmosphere. Here, culture is also lived in the hotel – with hospitality, regionality and attention to detail.
Experiences for rainy days in Saxon Switzerland
Even if the sun takes a break – your vacation doesn’t have to! Saxon Switzerland has numerous weather-independent excursion destinations and activities to offer that provide variety even in rain, wind or snow. Perfect for families, culture fans or wellness enthusiasts.
Our bad weather tips:
🏰 Königstein Fortress (covered areas & museums)
A real highlight even when it rains: underground corridors, interactive exhibitions and impressive architecture make the visit worthwhile – with many areas protected from the weather.
🧖♀️ Wellness & relaxation at the Steiger Hotels
Into the warm water, out of the everyday gray: Our in-house pools, saunas and relaxation rooms invite you to switch off – without any time pressure.
🎨 Museums & Galleries
Whether it’s the Bad Schandau National Park Center, the Richard Wagner Museum or the Sebnitz Local History Museum – here you’ll find knowledge, art and history presented in a charming way.
🕵️♂️ Indoor adventure for children
Indoor play parks such as the “Kinderland Elldus” (Erzgebirge, approx. 1h) or the “Panorama Museum” with interactive stations offer plenty of space to run around and be amazed – even when it’s raining outside.
🍽 Regional delights & café culture
How about a relaxing afternoon in one of the cozy country cafés or a culinary excursion into Saxon cuisine? Our Steiger restaurants offer moments of pleasure with a view – even in the rain.
🎬 Cinema, indoor swimming pool & leisure pool
For classic rainy days: the Pirna Filmpalast, the “Mariba” family pool in Neustadt or the Toskana-Therme Bad Schandau. Ideal for relaxing and experiencing!
Good to know:
Many excursion destinations have weatherproof areas or offer special programs in rainy weather. We are happy to help with daily planning at our reception!
Tip: Deliberately treat yourself to a relaxing rainy day – with a good book, a massage or a warm piece of apple strudel.
Hiking with a dog in Saxon Switzerland
Paws on it – four-legged friends feel at home here!
Forest paths for sniffing, clear streams for cooling off and many routes away from the hustle and bustle: Saxon Switzerland is a dream for anyone who wants to discover nature with their dog. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a challenging day tour – here you will find many dog-friendly trails where both humans and animals can get their money’s worth.
Our dog-friendly hiking tips:
🐾 1st Polenztal circular route
Shady, quiet and with plenty of water to splash around in. The path through the romantic Polenztal valley is ideal for warm days – a real sniffers’ paradise!
Start: Parking lot Hockstein or Polenzmühle
Length: approx. 7 km
Special feature: Many stream entrances, no steep climbs
🐾 2. Hinterhermsdorf – rafting trail with dog
Comfortable classic walk with plenty of space, soft forest floor and little traffic. Ideal for older dogs or relaxed walks with a break in between.
Start: Parking lot Buchenparkhalle
Length: approx. 5 km
Special feature: Close to nature, little elevation gain, also suitable for small dogs
🐾 3rd Ebenheit – Rathmannsdorf panoramic route
Wonderful high trail with a wide view over the Elbe valley and a large radius of movement. There is plenty of space to run around (on a lead) – perfect for active dogs.
Start: Ebenheit hiking parking lot
Length: approx. 6-8 km depending on the variant
Special feature: Quiet, with country lanes & viewpoints
Good to know:
Leash obligation is compulsory in the entire national park area – please comply.
Dog waste bags & drinking water please carry them with you – not everywhere there are garbage cans or fountains.
Dog-friendly places to stop for refreshments can be found along many hiking trails – just ask at reception.
Dog-friendly accommodation?
Four-legged guests are also very welcome at our Steiger Hotels! Many rooms are equipped for dogs – with a short walk to the countryside and a bowl and blanket on request. Please just let us know when booking.
Vacation with a dog? No problem in Saxon Switzerland – just pure joie de vivre on four paws.
Hiking where it gets quiet. Marvel where hardly anyone is standing.
Saxon Switzerland is famous for its hotspots – but those who hike off the beaten track often discover the most magical places. Here we reveal our three favorite tours that not everyone knows (yet).
🌿 1st Kleiner Zschand & Thorwalder Walls
Wild, lonely, wonderfully enchanted
This quiet loop leads deep into the heart of the national park. Moss-covered paths, rustic forests and the mystical Goldsteig trail are what make this tour so appealing. Ideal for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet – and with a bit of luck, a black woodpecker.
Start: Parking lot Neumannmühle
Duration: approx. 3.5 h
Difficulty: Medium (long, but technically easy route)
🪨 2. Gohrisch & Papststein – off the beaten track
Two peaks – one tour – hardly any activity
Not unknown, but cleverly combined: If you start early or choose a side access, you will experience two fantastic panoramic mountains almost to yourself. Especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset!
Start: Cunnersdorf or Kleinhennersdorf (secret parking lot!)
Duration: approx. 2.5-3 h
Difficulty: Easy to medium (some stairs & roots)
🌾 3. Hinterhermsdorf – Rabensteine & Flößersteig
Postcard idyll and gentle silence
This tour combines gentle forest paths with views of the Kirnitzschtal valley and small, rarely frequented rest areas. Perfect for connoisseurs, photography fans and anyone looking for “real peace and quiet”.
Start: Town center Hinterhermsdorf
Duration: approx. 2 h
Difficulty: Easy (suitable for families)
Our tip:
Simply leave the beaten track – with a map, water and curiosity in your luggage. Those who are open to detours will be rewarded with special moments.
And afterwards?
Back at our Steiger Hotels, a well-deserved reward awaits: a regional dinner, a hot sauna and the best stories around the table.
“One small journey is enough to renew us and the world” – Kurt Tucholsky
We look forward to you sharing the Saxon Switzerland experience with your loved ones, friends or colleagues!
Our Steiger Hotels vouchers can be easily created online and printed out immediately and are redeemable in all our hotels!
