After yesterdays introduction into the Elbsandsteingebirge (I love the German language), it was time to get into the serious stuff – the clue can be in the name! Luckily the weather was on my side, much to my humans disappointment …
After yesterdays 20km stroll, I heard my human saying “today’s walk would be shorter”. I didn’t believe that for a second!
After a 30 minute walk to Rathen our walk officially began. (Note: this is why our walks are longer than planned!!) We started to climb gently through the Amselgrund, heading towards towards Hockstein (translation – ‘high stone‘).
The walk started off well. I had a chance to chill out in a small stream before we wandered (climbed may be more appropriate word) through the woods. Everything was going swimmingly (still dreaming of that river) until we arrived at Hockstein! All I can say is we definitely walked the route in the right direction – thanks to the wonderful advice from our host back at the B&B. I would never of climbed those steps! Coming down had its challenges but we made it.
I had total trust following my humans. Once we hit the bottom, I let them have their well earned Radler. That’s how tough it was, they were drinking Shandy! Unfortunately – for them not me – this small drinks delay resulted in us getting caught in the most amazing downpour. I was in heaven.
Our amble through the beautiful Polenztal Canyon was a wash out! With not 1 but 2 thunderstorms, photo opportunities were put on hold. Mainly as we could hardly see anything. For me this was perfect walking weather.
Rathen and wet! 
only 30 minutes to go!
Eventually I got back home, where a warm shower and change of harness was needed!
After a great nights sleep it was the final day and today I was promised a ‘gentle walk’ to Rauenstein (translation – ‘rough stone’). Oh how foolish I was to believe that! It may be shorter, but this was my biggest challenge yet! 2 boat trips plus teamwork with my humans mean’t I was able to navigate all obstacles like a pro.
It was worth it – the views are the best I have ever seen in Germany!
Looking towards the Bastei – our 1st adventure 
After the obligatory beer stop at the top – it never ceases to amaze me how after every climb a biergarten just appears – we made out way back down for a well earned rest!
Bring on the return trip to Pension am National Park !