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Auf dem Forststeig zum Quirl – hike
From the edge of Königstein near the Papierfabrik, follow the Forststeig markers and climb uphill in switchbacks through dense forest. Via the Unterer and Oberer Kohlweg you reach the Quirlpromenade, which runs around the Tafelberg at the foot of the rock walls. Along the way you will pass the Diebskeller, a two-storey cave about 28 metres long, which was already mentioned in writing in the 17th century. After that you climb onto the plateau of the Quirl, the largest continuous flat area among the small table mountains of the region. The descent follows the Kanonenweg, which is lined with large sandstone blocks, and brushes past the Sterlhöhlen. The surface is mostly forest track with a few narrow stretches of path.
Tip: Take a torch for the caves; sturdy shoes are essential, and parking at the start is very limited. With children: take a head torch for the Diebshöhle cave.
- Duration
- approx. 2.3 h
- Length
- 5.75 km
- Type
- Circular walk
- Area
- Elbe Sandstone Mountains
- Suitable
- for children
What to expect
- Views
- Rocks and caves
- Stage of a long-distance trail
- short walk
- Forest, moor and plants
- reachable without a car
- quiet
- Table mountain
Along the way
- Königstein, Sächsische Schweiz
- Diebskeller, Königstein
- Quirl, Königstein
- Sterlhöhlen, Königstein
Please take a hiking map with you and stay on the marked paths in the national park.
History along the way
As of: 2026-10-01
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