Bastei (rock formation)

Notice: The main outlook on Bastei in Saxony Switzerland is perhaps permanently closed due to possible danger of falling down a rock massive. This only concerns one of the outlooks on Bastei, the other outlooks and the rock bridge are still open.

Bastei (305 m altitude) is a rock formation with scenic plateau in Saxony Switzerland on the right bank of the Elbe, between a spa town Rathen and a town Wehlen. Its major attraction is the rock bridge Basteibrücke; the first touristic European bridge. It is 76 metres long and it spans the deep chasm Mardertelle (Marten’s Pit). The bridge connects Bastei and the rock castle Neurathen. The origins of the bridge date back to 1851 and at that time it was the first European construction for tourists and nowadays it belongs to the most popular tourist destinations and dominants in Saxony Switzerland. It offers wide views at the valley of the river Elbe and at The Elbe Sandstones. There is a hotel with a restaurant on the plateau behind the rock formation.