In Saxon Switzerland, you will find one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks: the Bastei Bridge. A place I first saw in photos long ago and have wanted to visit ever since to capture my own images. During our road trip through Austria, the Czech Republic and Germany, we find ourselves nearby and decide to plan a visit to this remarkable bridge. My goal: to hike, enjoy the stunning landscape, but most of all, to take photos that stand out from the usual images of the Bastei Bridge.
History of the Bastei Bridge
The sandstone rock formations in Saxon Switzerland were formed millions of years ago. Over time, erosion shaped these rocks into the landscape we see today. The Bastei itself was discovered as a tourist destination in the 19th century. In 1824, the first wooden bridge was built to make the steep cliffs more accessible. The Bastei Bridge connected the remnants of the old Neurathen Castle, providing access to its ruins and offering visitors several viewpoints overlooking the surrounding landscape. In 1851, the wooden bridge was replaced by the stone bridge that still stands today.
Taking photos of the Bastei Bridge: tips and tricks
At the 76.5 meter long Bastei Bridge, there are several viewpoints offering stunning views of the bridge. The most striking viewpoint is directly in front of the bridge. This is where most classic shots are taken, capturing the entire bridge in one frame, like the photo above. However, there are many more hidden angles and perspectives to explore. Try shooting through branches, from behind rocks or find another creative see-through. On the bridge itself, you can use the sandstone pillars in the foreground, with the bridge in the background, to add depth to your photo. The rock formations at both ends of the bridge also make for interesting foreground elements.
Best time to photograph the Bastei Bridge
The best light occurs on sunny days, either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. At these times, the sun is low, creating a warm and soft atmosphere. Be sure to shoot against the light as well; this can produce a beautiful glow. Want to capture the sun as a starburst? This works best when the sun is low. Use a small aperture and experiment with settings between F/10 and F/18. The exact effect depends on your lens and focal length, making it a fun technique to play around with.
Basteiaussicht, a new viewing platform at the Bastei
Basteiaussicht is a new viewing platform at the Bastei. From here, you won’t have a view of the Bastei Bridge, but you will get stunning views of the Elbe River and the surrounding landscape. Located 200 meters above the Elbe, next to the restaurant, this spot is well worth a visit. Don’t forget to include it in your trip to the Bastei Bridge!
Parking at the Bastei
There are two parking areas close to the Bastei, from which you can reach the Bastei Bridge within a few minutes on foot. Early in the morning, the parking lots are still relatively empty, allowing you to park close by and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Arriving in the middle of the day? You may need to park farther away, but a shuttle service is available. I visit the Bastei Bridge in the late afternoon. When we arrive around 4:00 PM, there is plenty of space in the nearest parking lot, as all the tour buses have already left by then.
Hiking trails around the Bastei
Hiking in Saxon Switzerland guarantees spectacular views and rugged nature. The national park, known for its impressive sandstone rock formations, offers an extensive network of trails for all skill levels. Various paths lead to and along the famous Bastei, allowing you to admire and capture the iconic bridge from different angles. For hiking enthusiasts looking for a real challenge, the Malerweg, one of the region’s most famous and longest trails, is highly recommended. This approximately 112 kilometer long route takes you through Saxon Switzerland in eight stages, passing hidden gorges, vast forests and breathtaking viewpoints over the Elbe.
Where to stay near the Bastei
There are plenty of great accommodations near Saxon Switzerland National Park. We stay in a charming accommodation in the town of Sebnitz. From Sebnitz, it’s about a 30-minute drive to the Bastei Bridge. Sebnitz itself is a lovely, dreamy little town and the surrounding area offers many beautiful spots to explore.
