Katzenstein is a striking rock formation in the Ore Mountains, reaching 706 m above sea level and towering roughly 90 metres above the Schwarze Pockau valley below. If you enjoy sweeping views, dramatic cliffs and a touch of medieval history, this compact summit is well worth the detour.
The plateau at the top faces east, offering a wide panorama over the Schwarzwasser valley spread out at your feet. Look carefully and you will spot the elongated, arc-shaped rock formation known as 'Ringmauer' to the east. To the south-east, the Rabenberg rises with the steep, river-encircled summit of Liebenstein — the very spot where a 12th-century fortified castle, Raubschloss Liebenstein, once stood. Its tower ruins were reportedly still visible as late as the 18th century. The cliff drops steeply to the valley, creating an exhilarating sense of exposure that rewards you after even a short walk. In autumn the surrounding forest blazes with colour, while spring brings fresh green and morning mist hanging over the river.
How to reach the summitThe name 'Katzenstein' — 'Cat Rock' — came from a protruding boulder that once resembled a cat's head. Though the 'cat' has long since been removed, the rock retains a wild, watchful character all its own.