Breiteberg

The Breiteberg is a 510-metre hill in the Lusatian Highlands of Saxony, near the villages of Hainewalde, Großschönau and Bertsdorf. It sits between the Zittau Mountains and the Lusatian Highlands, with its slopes covered mostly in phonolite rock. The mountain has long been tied to local legends, including tales of dwarves called Querxe, a wild hunter and a dragon. In 1467, Zittau fighters ambushed Hussites here, killing 150 as they fled toward Bohemia. A summer restaurant opened in 1880, and in 1936 a 13-metre observation tower was built in honour of Dr. Kurt Heinke. The summit is wooded, but the Dr. Kurt Heinke Tower offers wide views across the Lusatian and Zittau Mountains. On clear days, the Landeskrone near Görlitz, the Jizera Mountains and the Giant Mountains can be seen. The tower’s key is available from the restaurant at the top. Three paths lead up: a cycle route from Bertsdorf, a hiking trail from Hainewalde, and another illuminated route. Nearby features include the Querxloch cave and the Querxenbrunnen spring, both linked to the old dwarf legends. Visitors find a quiet hilltop with a working mountain restaurant and an observation tower. The restaurant has supplied food to the summit for over a century. The stone plinth of the removed Frederick III monument still stands on the north side. The paths are well marked, with one route lit for evening walks. The views stretch far into three countries, making the climb worthwhile. The mountain remains a familiar landmark for locals and a peaceful spot for walkers.