Picture a terraced hillside garden filled with orange trees, cascading fountains, and statues of tragic mythological lovers, overlooking the Elbe valley. The Baroque Garden Großsedlitz is one of the most authentic Baroque gardens in Germany, designed by three of Dresden's leading architects and ranked among the finest works of Dresden Baroque.

The roughly 18-hectare park is arranged in terraces, offering sweeping views over the Elbe basin from its upper levels. In summer, hundreds of potted orange trees decorate the terraces, echoing the grandeur of French royal gardens. Spring and autumn bring a quieter, contemplative mood, while in winter the citrus collection retreats into the historic orangeries for protection from the cold — making this a rewarding destination in every season, especially outside the busy summer months.

• Heidenau, Großsedlitz — accessible by car or local transport, parking at the main entrance, flat terrain, easy walking suitable for the whole family
• Dresden — about 20 minutes by car or train to Heidenau, then a short local connection

• Open from Easter to October
• Highlights: Upper and Lower Orangeries and the Friedrichschlösschen with its historic restaurant
• The Saxon Citrus Days take place every year in late May
• The garden festival on the first weekend of August recalls the courtly celebrations of Augustus the Strong

Fun fact: in 1736 the garden was home to 1,250 orange trees — today the collection has grown again to over 400 potted plants, including precious bitter oranges known as pomeranzen.