The Preßnitztalbahn is a charming narrow-gauge heritage railway winding through the Ore Mountains, offering a nostalgic steam-powered journey through one of Saxony's most scenic valleys. It's a must for railway enthusiasts and families alike, blending industrial history with beautiful nature.

The line follows the Preßnitz and Schwarzwasser rivers, crossing numerous bridges and threading through forested hills and quiet villages. In summer, the steam train chugs past green meadows and dense woodland; in autumn, the valley bursts into color; and during Advent, festive rides add a magical touch to the season. A hiking and cycling trail now runs along much of the old railway embankment, so you can easily combine a train ride with a walk or bike tour through the valley.

How to get there

• Steinbach (b Jöhstadt) station — starting point of the heritage line, accessible by car or bike along the Preßnitz valley, easy access
• Jöhstadt station — the other terminus, close to the Czech border, reached via the road following the Schwarzwasser valley

Practical information

• Heritage railway length: 9 km (Steinbach–Jöhstadt)
• Trains run from May to October on weekends and public holidays, during Advent and between Christmas and New Year, plus by special booking
• Stops along the route include Wildbach, Loreleifelsen, Schlössel and the exhibition hall with historic rolling stock in Jöhstadt
• The Wolkenstein–Steinbach section can be covered by a historic replacement bus service on selected operating days

Fun fact: this was the last narrow-gauge railway to be dismantled in East Germany, and its revival as a heritage line since 1990 is entirely thanks to dedicated local railway enthusiasts.