Best attractions and places to see around Großschönau are found within the Zittau Mountains Nature Park, a region known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage in Upper Lusatia. The area features unique Umgebinde houses, historic sites, and diverse landscapes. Visitors can explore forests, rivers, and various cultural institutions.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
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At the beginning of the 13th century, Hadmar II of Kuenring had the castle town of Weitra built. Since its founding, Weitra held the central military, administrative, judicial, and ecclesiastical functions in the so-called "Districtus Witrensis" (District of Witrensis). It was also a central market town and refuge in times of war. In the 16th century, the castle was rebuilt into a magnificent Renaissance palace according to plans by Pietro Ferrabosco. In 1994, the palace was renovated by Prince Johannes zu Fürstenberg and opened to the public. More on the history: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Weitra
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The imposing Weitra Castle sits atop a hill above the equally beautiful old town and is a sight to behold from all directions. Current information on history and events is available at https://schloss-weitra.at/
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A beautiful little wooden church in the middle of the forest, beautiful to look at, fits perfectly here.
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Beautiful forest paths along the Granite Trail and from Weikertschlag lead to the water station.
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beautiful castle with interesting border museum
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beautiful castle in Weitra with interesting border museum
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The Lainsitz, Lužnice in the Czech Republic, is a tributary of the Vltava in Austria and the Czech Republic. Its total length is about 200 kilometers, 43 of which are in Austria. However, the German name in Bohemia was not Lainsitz, but Luschnitz. [Wikipedia]
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Between 1201 and 1208, Hadmar II of Kuenring had the castle town of Weitra built. The castle stood in the south, at the highest point of the sloping granite plateau. Since its foundation, Weitra had the central military, administrative, judicial and ecclesiastical function in the so-called "Districtus Witrensis", and the castle town was also a central market town and place of refuge in times of war. [schloss-weitra.at/]
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Großschönau is an excellent starting point for exploring the Zittau Mountains Nature Park, known for its idyllic forests and rivers like the Mandau and Lausur. You can hike to the Nebelstein Hut, which offers a welcoming stop for hikers. Other notable natural features include the Lausche, the highest peak in the Zittau Mountains with panoramic views, and unique rock formations like the Nonnenfelsen and the mushroom-shaped Kelchstein.
Absolutely. Großschönau and Waltersdorf are famous for their more than 660 preserved Umgebinde houses, a unique architectural style. You can delve into the region's textile history at the German Damask and Terry Museum, or explore local heritage at the Museum Dorfleben and the Volkskunde- und Mühlenmuseum Waltersdorf. The historic Jägerhaus, first mentioned in 1499, also offers a glimpse into the past.
Großschönau offers several family-friendly attractions. Trixi Park is a popular destination with a water park, slides, and wellness facilities suitable for all ages. For outdoor fun, the Erlebnisspielplatz BETZ near the tourism office features a go-kart track, tube slide, and climbing towers. The Spielplatz Sonnenwelt is an energy-themed adventure playground with a stone labyrinth and water play areas. Nearby, you can also visit the Jonsdorf Butterfly House or take a ride on the historic Zittauer Schmalspurbahn.
For breathtaking views, hike to the summit of the Lausche, the highest peak in the Zittau Mountains, which features a new viewing platform offering 360-degree panoramas. The Nebelstein Hut is also a popular destination with scenic surroundings. Additionally, the Nonnenfelsen near Jonsdorf provides magnificent views over the Pochebach valley, and the Hutberg and Finkenhübel hills are recommended for walks with scenic outlooks.
The Zittau Mountains Nature Park offers a network of well-developed hiking trails. You can find routes for various skill levels, including paths along the Lainsitz River. The region is home to trails like the "Kunst & Kultur Erlebniswanderweg" and the "Oberlausitzer Bergweg." For more specific hiking routes, you can explore options in the running trails guide, which also includes walking paths.
Yes, Großschönau is well-suited for cycling. The region features numerous cycling routes, including the "Umgebinde Houses Route," a popular German-Czech circular path. For specific road cycling routes, you can check out the Road Cycling Routes around Großschönau guide. Mountain biking enthusiasts will also find trails, such as those mentioned in the MTB Trails around Großschönau guide, which includes routes near the Bruderndorf Water Station.
Großschönau is renowned for its distinctive Umgebinde houses. This architectural style, unique to the Upper Lusatia region, combines log construction with half-timbered elements and a solid stone ground floor. Many of these historic houses are lovingly preserved and are listed buildings, giving the towns a unique charm and reflecting the region's past as a textile center.
The Zittauer Schmalspurbahn is a historic narrow-gauge railway that offers a unique and nostalgic way to explore the region. It's easily accessible from Großschönau and provides a scenic journey through the Zittau Mountains, connecting various towns and attractions. It's a great option for families and those interested in historical transport.
Yes, the Naturparkhaus Zittauer Gebirge (Zittau Mountains Nature Park House) in Waltersdorf is an excellent resource. It features an interactive exhibition detailing the nature park's origins, history, and ecosystem, with a strong focus on conservation. The center also includes a nature park garden with local plants, play stations, and a panoramic viewpoint.
Visitors frequently praise the blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Nebelstein Hut is highlighted as a rustic, cozy, and welcoming stop for hikers, offering good food and even overnight stays. The Klaus Chapel is appreciated as a beautiful little wooden church nestled in the forest, accessible via pleasant hiking trails. The scenic paths along the Lainsitz River are also a favorite for their picturesque landscapes.
Yes, the Klaus Chapel is a notable religious building nestled in the forest, originally a pleasure house converted into a chapel in 1948. It's accessible via several hiking trails. Another recently restored site is the Obermaißen Chapel, located on the climb to Nebelstein, offering an idyllic setting and historical significance.
The Zittau Mountains region, including Großschönau, experiences a mild climate, making it suitable for outdoor activities throughout much of the year. Hiking to the Lausche is rewarding in all seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery for hiking and cycling, while summer is ideal for water activities at Trixi Park. Winter also provides opportunities for activities in the Zittau Mountains.


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