Via Sacra - from St. Marienthal Monastery to Zittau
Relaxed towards monastic calm now along the Neiße. The hiking trail is also the popular cycling path and well frequented. After only a few meters you reach the Karfunkel cave. It is a quartz vein in Rumburg granite, where some beautiful quartz crystals were found in the past. After only about 700 meters after the monastery we take the path out of the breakthrough valley, through a romantic side valley of the Neiße and through the monastery forest. Through this very enchanting mixed forest we continue to hike. Over the wolf path we get back into the Neiße valley to the Saupantsche, follow the asphalt strip along the river to Hirschfelde.
Once a place of coal, there is no more coal now. From the other Neiße bank the Polish coal power plant dominates the scenery. Behind Hirschfelde the path runs through green meadows to the industrial area of Zittau. Along its edge we reach the Weinau park, the streets there are wonderful oak avenues. It is only a few kilometers to the center or to the train station.
Directions
Flat stage, except for the ascent and descent in monastery forest variant. In the valley up to the end of Hirschfelde asphalt, the path through the monastery forest forest roads and forest trails.
Recommended equipment
Day hiking backpack (approx. 20 liters) with rain cover, sturdy and comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate and durable clothing in layers, if necessary telescopic poles, sun and rain protection, provisions and drinking water, first aid kit, pocket knife, mobile phone, if necessary headlamp, maps
Safety notice
Alternatively: if asphalt and cyclists do not disturb you, you can hike the whole time in the Neiße valley and thus save one kilometer and a few meters of altitude.
Contact and arrival