Rescue for the forgotten Burgstein ruins – new life in Vogtland!
Plauen: New developments on the Burgstein ruins and historic hotel, recommendations for hiking trails in Vogtland.

Rescue for the forgotten Burgstein ruins – new life in Vogtland!
The castle stone ruins near Krebes are not only a fascinating relic of the past, but also a popular destination for hikers and history buffs. But the situation around the ruins has changed: as of this year, the site is no longer maintained and access is now restricted. The area, which lay untouched for decades between Krebes and Ruderitz, has left behind time and memories of the GDR.
Visitors find the castle stone ruins in a condition that is strongly reminiscent of the time back then reports the Free Press. This isolation was deliberately enforced in the GDR due to the proximity of the border and the adjacent restricted area, which meant that the ruins were largely cut off from the rest of the world. There are efforts to revitalize the castle stone ruins and create new access for those interested.
Hiking trails and the surrounding area
However, the area around the Burgstein ruins has a lot to offer. Numerous hiking trails invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore the idyllic landscape of the Vogtland. These include, among other things, tours with different levels of difficulty that lead through picturesque protected landscape areas and offer breathtaking views. Some of the recommended tours include:
- Leicht: 22,8 km, Dauer: 6:30 h, Aufstieg: 315 hm, Abstieg: 362 hm.
- Mittel: 18 km, Dauer: 4:38 h, Aufstieg: 143 hm, Abstieg: 178 hm.
- Mittel: 9,5 km, Dauer: 2:30 h, Aufstieg: 175 hm, Abstieg: 175 hm.
- Mittel: 13,2 km, Dauer: 3:28 h, Aufstieg: 192 hm, Abstieg: 192 hm.
- Mittel: 15,7 km, Dauer: 4:19 h, Aufstieg: 311 hm, Abstieg: 311 hm.
- Mittel: 21,1 km, Dauer: 5:40 h, Aufstieg: 340 hm, Abstieg: 127 hm.
These hiking trails not only offer sporting challenges, but also the opportunity to get to know the regional flora and fauna better. A special path was created on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of reunification to celebrate the historical background and the beauty of the landscape reports the Vogtland Tourism website.
A look at the future
It remains exciting to see what steps will be taken to put the castle stone ruins back in an appealing light. A possible call for tenders to develop development and maintenance concepts is on the horizon. Preserving this historic site could not only enhance local culture but also boost tourism. The connection between nature and history will be crucial through the planning and implementation of future projects.
For anyone who wants to relax and enjoy nature, the nearby Hotel Alexandra in Plauen offers ideal accommodation. The family-run 4-star hotel is a real insider tip with its stylish furnishings and excellent culinary offerings. From here the Burgstein ruins are just a stone's throw away Anyone interested can find out more on Erzgebirge.de.
In summary, the Burgstein ruins have a lot of potential to become a center for history buffs and hiking enthusiasts. Together with the surrounding nature, this offers the opportunity to retell old stories.