The Mönch, also called Mönchstein (274.9 m), is a distinctive rock tower and a favourite climbing summit in Saxon Switzerland near Rathen. Its weathervane in the shape of a tin monk is visible from afar and serves as a landmark for hikers and climbers alike.

The surrounding landscape is classic Saxon Switzerland: sandstone pinnacles rising above forested valleys along the Elbe. Across the river stands the Nonne rock, and the pairing of Monk and Nun has inspired local legends about how both got their names. The area is lively with climbers in summer, glows with autumn colours in the forests below, and takes on a stark, quiet beauty when dusted with winter snow.

How to reach the summit

• The summit can only be reached by climbing — the classic Southeast Route (Saxon grade III) was the first ascent made without artificial aids, in 1874
• There is no hiking trail to the top — since the destruction of the medieval Neurathen rock castle in 1469, climbing is the only way up

Practical information

• The hardest routes on the north face reach the upper tenth grade of the Saxon climbing scale
• Just below the summit lies the Mönchsloch, a hollow carved into the rock, once used by medieval watchmen of Neurathen castle
• Saxon climbing rules apply, prohibiting artificial aids such as ladders or chiselled holds

The original tin monk weathervane from 1887, damaged in 1928 and 1930, now rests in the museum at Bad Schandau, while a faithful replica has crowned the summit since 1957.