Introduction to climbing on Elbe sandstone, from Ottendorf

What it is

Saxon Switzerland has more than a thousand sandstone pinnacles and a climbing tradition of its own. If you have never climbed, the way to try it is an introductory day with a local school. The one at the Ottendorfer Hütte, in Ottendorf, in the upper Kirnitzsch valley, has been running courses for more than 25 years. Its Schnuppertag Felsklettern is a day on real rock: it begins with the basics and exercises on the ground, and then you climb easy routes chosen according to what the group wants and can do, always belayed by mountain and climbing guides.

Price and what is included

The day costs €93 per adult and €75 per child up to age 12, with rental equipment included. That individual price requires at least three participants paying the full rate; for groups they quote separately. If you like it, the two-day course costs €190 (€160 for children) and each extra day, €93. There are tailor-made guided outings from €275 for one or two people. The school only climbs when the rock is dry: after days of rain it is postponed.

Getting there and booking

The meeting point is in Ottendorf, in the municipality of Sebnitz, above the Kirnitzsch valley. From Bad Schandau you get there by car; by public transport, check the connection with the Kirnitzschtalbahn and the local buses on the VVO transport association's website. Book on the website or by phone: they have a calendar of fixed dates and also dates by arrangement. The website does not say whether classes are given in English; ask when you book.