Best attractions and places to see in Kottmarwald include natural features and historical sites centered around the Kottmar mountain in Saxony, Germany. The region is known for its picturesque landscapes and significant landmarks, including the source of the Spree River. Visitors can explore woodland areas and viewpoints across Upper Lusatia. The area offers a variety of attractions for nature enthusiasts and those interested in local history.
Last updated: June 4, 2026
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The ideal place to start the Spree cycle path🥰.
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Very nice representation of a legend of the region
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One of the three Spree springs. It is the uppermost one - well hidden in the forest. But well signposted. You should/can start the Spree cycle path from here. The spring enclosure is a little martial and at the same time honors the victims of the First World War, especially the Lusatia Association. (At that time the beautification association in this area)
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Ski jump run by the local ski club. Great view towards Löbau and the Boxberg power plant. To the left of the jump at the run-off table is a viewing bench.
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Steep driveway - it's easier going downhill - :)
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Was there for mat ski jumping on Ascension Day weekend.
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In the meantime, there is a hiking car park at the former location of the old Kottmarbleiche. Only a few remnants of the walls of the property demarcation and the factory pond are reminiscent of the former textile site. Yarns used to be bleached in bleaching, later fabrics. The Kottmarbleiche was known for its naturally occurring softest water in Germany with 0.2 degrees German hardness. A water mill is said to have originally been on the site.
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Impressive ski jumping facility at Kottmar.
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Kottmarwald is rich in natural beauty, centered around the Kottmar mountain. A significant natural landmark is the Spree River Source at Kottmar, one of the highest sources of the Spree River, nestled on the western slope of the Kottmar mountain. The mountain itself, at 583 meters, offers woodlands and panoramic viewpoints across Upper Lusatia, extending to the border triangle of Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic.
Yes, Kottmarwald features several points of historical interest. You can visit The Stone Cross on Weinberg, a memorial cross with a rich history, and the Remains of the Old Kottmarbleiche Bleachery, where you can see remnants of a former textile site known for its exceptionally soft water. The area also has a history of aviation on the Hänschberg.
Kottmarwald offers stunning panoramic views. From the Kottmar mountain, you can see across Upper Lusatia, reaching the border triangle of Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic, and even glimpse the Iser and Giant Mountains. The Kottmar Ski Jump also provides wonderful views over the Upper Lusatia region.
Many attractions in Kottmarwald are suitable for families. The Spree River Source at Kottmar and Spree Spring Kottmar are considered family-friendly natural monuments. Additionally, the Stone Cross on Weinberg and the Remains of the Old Kottmarbleiche Bleachery are also marked as family-friendly, offering gentle exploration opportunities.
Kottmarwald is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy gravel biking with routes like 'Kottmarsdorfer Post Mill – Kottmarsdorf Post Mill loop from Kottmar' or 'Factors' Court Eibau – Kottmarsdorfer Post Mill loop from Oberoderwitz Oberdorf'. For cycling, consider 'Around the Kottmar' or 'Mandau Cycle Path – Lake Olbersdorf loop from Eibau'. There are also easy hikes such as 'Kottmar – Spree Source at Kottmar loop from Kottmar' and 'Legend Trail at Kottmar – Kottmar Ski Jump loop from Kottmar'. You can find more details on these activities at the respective guide pages for gravel biking, cycling, and easy hikes in Kottmarwald.
Yes, the Spree River Source at Kottmar is an excellent starting point for hiking. You can find easy hiking routes nearby, such as the 'Kottmar – Spree Source at Kottmar loop from Kottmar' (5.3 km) or the 'Spree River Source at Kottmar – Kottmar Ski Jump loop from Kottmar' (4.6 km). These trails allow you to explore the natural beauty surrounding the source. More hiking options are available in the easy hikes in Kottmarwald guide.
Kottmarwald offers attractions year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for hiking and cycling, with lush landscapes and pleasant weather. The area is also a popular winter sports destination, hosting international ski jumping competitions on its artificial surface during the Ascension Day weekend, making it an interesting visit during colder months as well.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, especially from the Kottmar mountain and the Kottmar Ski Jump. The historical significance of sites like The Stone Cross on Weinberg and the unique experience of visiting the Spree River Source at Kottmar are also highly appreciated. The area's natural beauty and well-maintained trails for various outdoor activities receive positive feedback.
Yes, parking is available at several locations. For instance, a hiking car park is now located at the former site of the Remains of the Old Kottmarbleiche Bleachery, providing convenient access to that historical site and nearby trails.
Absolutely! The Spree River Source at Kottmar is considered an ideal starting point for the Spree Cycle Path. While the climb to the source can be a bit tricky, it's well worth it for those looking to begin their cycling journey along the Spree from its highest origin.
Kottmarwald holds several unique spots. The Spree River Source at Kottmar, with its semi-circular phonolite stone wall and historical inscriptions, is a distinctive natural monument. The Remains of the Old Kottmarbleiche Bleachery, with its history of using Germany's softest water, offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past. The area also boasts a distinct Kottmar View Tower, offering unique perspectives of the landscape.
Kottmar mountain, standing at 583 meters, is a central natural landmark in the region. It's known for being the location of one of the highest sources of the Spree River and offers extensive woodlands and lookouts. It's also home to the Kottmar Ski Jump and is a popular destination for winter sports.


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