Treasures to be discovered! The mountain church of Seiffen is a wonderful treasure. And thanks to the industrious toy makers who have recreated it a million times over, the little church is known almost on every continent. The museum ensemble "Saigerhütte" is also of very special value; it has been part of the "UNESCO World Heritage Mining Region Erzgebirge/Krušnohoří" since 2019.
The ridge trail leads directly past the mountain church in Seiffen. The octagonal building of the mountain church is strongly reminiscent of the Frauenkirche in Dresden. It is worth taking a look inside. It's hard to believe that this small church seats almost 500. We walk further up to the ski lift. After a steep climb through a valley we reach the Wettinhöhe. Thank goodness there is a wonderful rest area waiting at the top. The next three kilometres we hike comfortably through mixed forest. The view widens and we come to the small cemetery in Hirschberg. We follow the asphalt road downhill until we cross the Flöha river. Then a bit of fitness is required. On the other side of the road, the Kammweg leads steeply uphill to the Zechenweg. After a large loop in the coniferous forest, we come to the mountain church in Oberneuschönberg, high above the Flöha valley. In 1692 the foundation stone was laid for this massive church, which is still very well preserved today. Soon the last treasure awaits - perhaps the most impressive for today. The "Saigerhütte" museum ensemble is a unique complex in this form worldwide. The name comes from Saigern, a smelting process for desilvering raw copper that was revolutionary at the time. The ensemble comprises over 20 historic buildings. Now you are spoilt for choice. There is a lot to experience and marvel at here!
Milestones: Seiffen toy village with round church - Reicheltberg - Mühlenweg - Wettinweg - Hirschberg - Zechenweg - Tiefer Grund - Oberneuschönberg mountain church - Saigerhütte monument complex.