Weißenborn/Erzgeb. between mining and nature

Weißenborn/Erzgeb. lies at the foot of the Ore Mountains, near Freiberg. The area offers distinct themes for a stay: mining history, paths through the countryside and the outdoor swimming pool. Weißenborn was first documented in 1213. The mining trail links local history and traces of historic mining with views of the Ore Mountains landscape.

The mining trail: route and directions

The mining trail is marked in both directions. One possible starting point is the Dreiländereck at the intersection of Friedrichweg and Buchenweg; check the local signage before setting out. A detour to the Wernergraben can extend the route to about 9.2 km. This distance refers to the extended route. The lower section can be wet in spring or after heavy rain, so suitable footwear is recommended. Also check trail conditions before your hike.

Mining history and landscape

Six wooden information boards cover Weißenborn’s history and mining. The trail passes the former Huthaus of the Himmelsfürst mine, along with the Günther Erbstolln. Another detour leads to the collapsed upper portal of the 900-metre-long Wernergraben drainage tunnel; access conditions may vary. Mining for silver, copper, tin and lead took place in Weißenborn’s northern field until the mid-19th century.

The mining trail showcases the Ore Mountains landscape alongside the mining remains. The valleys of the Freiberger Mulde and the Bobritzsch cut up to 100 metres into the landscape. Weißenborn and Berthelsdorf are starting points for cycling and hiking tours. Signposted trails in the surrounding area pass through natural landscapes and lead to viewpoints. For planning purposes, the mining trail combines historic traces with landscape views, while other routes offer cycling and hiking through nature.

The outdoor swimming pool in Weißenborn

The outdoor swimming pool in Weißenborn is a separate attraction. Its water surface covers 3,600 m², and facilities include a large water slide and a 2.50-metre-high diving tower. There are also play and climbing facilities and a beach volleyball court. Free parking is available. The pool is accessible via a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a lift.

More places to explore in Central Saxony

In the wider Central Saxony travel region, the “Reiche Zeche” teaching mine adds an underground tour to the mining theme. These tours usually begin with a ride down the shaft, most often via the “Reiche Zeche” shaft; the cage takes visitors to the landing at a depth of around 150 metres. The 353-metre-high Rochlitzer Berg also broadens the geological perspective on Central Saxony: it is a remnant of volcanic activity and contains red porphyry tuff considered unique in Germany and Europe.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Berthelsdorf/Erzgebirge, Penig, Leubsdorf, Mulda/Sachsen, Burgstädt, Halsbrücke, Frankenberg/Sachsen, Brand-Erbisdorf.

Back to the main travel overview: Central Saxony.