"Magical Erzgebirge (Ore Mountains) " a Erzgebirge Travel Page by german_eagle

The Erzgebirge mountains are located in the south of Saxony, the main crest building the borderline to the Czech Republic. With a length of 130 km and a width of 40 km it is one of Germany's largest mid-range mountains.

The Erzgebirge is also called "mountains without peaks". A true statement. Since it is older than the Alps, environmental influences are the reason that peaks eroded and plains with deeps valleys remained. The plains rise from 350 m on the northern foot to 800 - 900 m near the main crest. The remains of the highest peaks reach more than 1000 m elevation: Klinovec 1244 m on the Czech side, Fichtelberg 1214 m on the German side.

Before the wall came down the Erzgebirge hardly suffered from toxic immissions from (mostly) the Czech coal power plants. Large parts of the main crest looked awfully with dead trees, almost like "ghost forests". The situation improved dramatically in 1990s. Immissions are surveyed now and you will rarely find dead forests.

In spite of former problems with pollution the Erzgebirge is one of Germany's most beautiful mid-range moutains. Vast forests, deep and romantic valleys, cosy small towns and villages, plenty of sights and high snow reliability make it an excellent place for visits, especially in winter.

Christmas time is my favourite season for a visit. Erzgebirge is *THE* German Christmas County! Nowhere else you will find such a rich and long tradition of local Christmas customs. The Erzgebirge is famous for wood carved pieces like pyramids, nutcrackers, "Schwibbögen" and stuff. Countless "events" take place in December: Parades with Miners, evenings with singing and chatting (Hutzenabende) - and Christmas Markets. Although folks want for sure sell their products these Christmas Markets are by far less touristy and commercial than elsewhere.

The Erzgebirge is also an excellent place for sports activities, especially in winter. Hundreds of km of cross-country tracks are groomed, alpine skiing is possible in numerous places, but it is also great for hiking and biking in summer.

Saxony's richness in past century based in large parts on the ore mines in the Erzgebirge. The Zwinger in Dresden was built with money from Silver mines in Freiberg! Don't miss to see a mining museum when visiting the area.

Some of the money stayed in the Erzgebirge, of course. Castles and beautiful churches as well as town houses were built. You will have many choices!