Sonneberg, also known as Buchberg, is a modest but fascinating hill in Upper Lusatia, right on the German-Czech border. At just 401 metres, it hides a genuine geological surprise — a summit crowned with basalt formed from ancient volcanic lava.

The mountain is thickly forested, dominated by beech trees that give it its alternative name. The flattened summit is scattered with granodiorite boulders, and nearby, on a neighbouring rise, an old quarry reveals striking columns of nepheline basalt — remnants of Tertiary-era volcanic activity. The water-filled quarry resembles a small crater lake and is one of the highlights of any visit. The surrounding forest has a quiet, contemplative atmosphere, perfect for an unhurried walk away from the crowds — especially beautiful in autumn when the beech woods turn gold and copper.

How to reach the summit

• From the western part of Neusalza-Spremberg — a field track leading through a railway bridge and pastures, easy, about 30-40 minutes
• From the nearby village of Sonneberg — a short approach from the southeast, easy

Practical information

• The summit lies within the so-called Grenzwald (Border Forest), right next to the Czech-German border
• The old quarry, filled with water and resembling a crater lake, requires caution near the edges
• There is no marked viewpoint at the top — the appeal lies in the geology and the forest itself

Fun fact: the name Sonneberg (Sun Mountain) is said to come from the way the sun set late over the treetops here, as seen from the settlers' forested corner of the land.