The town located in the upper valley of the White Elster is surrounded by higher wooded mountains that protect against extreme temperature fluctuations. Bad Elster, Saxony's most traditional spa town and one of the oldest German moor healing baths, lies at the tripoint of Bohemia, Bavaria, and Saxony in the heart of the world-renowned European spa region in the center of Europe. After Bad Elster was first mentioned in documents in 1324, the first spring was scientifically examined here in 1669 and dedicated to the then territorial lord Duke Moritz of Saxony-Zeitz. As early as 1818, the first warm mineral water baths were offered in simple wooden sheds before Bad Elster was elevated to the status of "Royal Saxon State Spa" in 1848. Today, the "King's Spa" is one of the most traditional and renowned healing baths in Germany. With its ten mineral healing springs, which Saxony's kings already appreciated, and the healthy natural moor, Bad Elster today offers a broad-spectrum modern spa therapy as an experienced health resort. (Source: Bad Elster website)
Our hike from the parking garage around the Luisateich and back is 3.2 km long. Ten meters of elevation gain and loss must be overcome. The paths are paved or fine gravel. The latter often requires a push assist.
