Christmas Along the Elbe

One of the oldest and most important spa resorts in Saxon Switzerland, the beautiful resort city of Bad Schandau has retained much of the splendor and charm of bygone ages. After iron-rich springs were discovered here in the mid-18th century, hotels and spa houses soon dotted the landscape. In 1920, the town (then Schandau) was awarded the right to use the prefix “Bad,” meaning “Spa.” For refugees and emigrants during World War II, this was a place of hope. Many were helped to safety by climbers who knew secret passes through the mountains and out of Germany.

Sail through the magnificent, soaring rock formations of Saxon Switzerland. This spectacular region earned its name from two Swiss painters who were reminded of their home while visiting. You will witness some of the wildest cliff formations imaginable, with nicknames such as Catapult, Locomotive and Wolf’s Ravine. As you pass through, marvel at the Bastei, a 1,000-foot spectacle of tooth-like rocks connected by a footbridge. Sailing past these iconic monoliths is sure to be a highlight of your journey.

The scent of gingerbread, aromatic glühwein and roasted chestnuts has been filling the air of Dresden’s Old Market Square since the mid-15th century. Traditional crafts, such as Ore Mountain folk art, Lusatian blue-printed fabrics and Moravian stars, are popular gifts, as is the city’s famous Dresdner christstollen, a delicious spiced fruit loaf. Each year, a festival dedicated to the regional specialty takes place, where a giant stollen weighing several tons is presented to the town and sold to raise funds for charitable causes.