Großer Stein (471 m a.s.l.) is one of the most distinctive summits in the Upper Lusatia hill country – compact, rocky and full of character. Two phonolith rock peaks, sweeping views over the Lusatian uplands and a protected geological landscape make this a rewarding half-day trip for hikers of all levels.
The mountain's volcanic geology – ash tuffs, basalt slopes and phonolith plates – creates a surprisingly varied environment. The south and east flanks are draped in wildflower meadows featuring rare silver thistles and field gentians, while tiny ferns cling to the rocky summit. A birch stand on the upper slope has been growing since around 1920. The views from the main summit take in a wide panorama of the Lusatian hill country, and the atmosphere is quiet and unhurried whatever the season.
How to reach the summitThe smaller of the two peaks is called 'Goethekopf' because its silhouette resembles the profile of the poet Goethe's face – and in the early 1960s a lightning strike blew off its 'nose', which local enthusiasts promptly cemented back in place.