Kottmar (582 m a.s.l.) is an extinct volcano rising from the Lusatian Highlands of Saxony, packed with legends, history and a surprising geographical secret. Don't let the modest elevation fool you — this is a peak with real personality.

The mountain is built from phonolite, a volcanic rock, and its forested slopes create a peaceful, atmospheric setting year-round. In summer the beech and mixed forests offer cool shade, while autumn turns the hillsides gold. In winter, Kottmar comes alive as a local skiing hub — the Kottmarschanzen ski jumps have been active since the 1960s and were fully renovated in 2004 by the local Ski-Club Kottmar. The terrain is gentle and welcoming for hikers of all abilities.

• Kottmarsdorf or Walddorf (village parking areas) — forest trail, approx. 45–60 min, easy
• Ebersbach-Neugersdorf — approach from the west, approx. 60 min, easy

• The Kottmarturm, a 15.5-metre observation tower built in 1881, stands on the summit but is currently closed to visitors.
• The Kottmarbaude mountain hut is no longer in operation — bring your own food and drinks.
• One of the three sources of the River Spree rises at the foot of Kottmar — a lovely spot to visit on your way up or down.
• A themed trail around the summit features 10 information boards and art installations dedicated to local legends.

Kottmar sits on the North Sea–Baltic Sea watershed: water flowing west joins the Spree on its way to the North Sea, while water flowing east reaches the Baltic via the Lusatian Neisse and Oder. Stand in the right spot and you're at the parting point of two seas — not something you can say about many summits.