Start of the season at Pillnitz Palace and Park

At the beginning of the 18th century, Augustus the Strong gave Pillnitz Palace to his mistress, Countess Cosel. After he grew tired of her and banished her to Stolpen Castle, the Elector had the impressive mountain and water palace built according to Pöppelmann's plans and Pillnitz became his play and pleasure palace. Later, the Saxon court resided here in summer. The palace ensemble, picturesquely situated in the Elbe valley with its vineyards, combines Baroque and Far Eastern architecture and is considered a model of Chinoiserie. The English, Dutch and Chinese gardens invite you to take a leisurely stroll.

The secret star of Pillnitz Palace Park - the camellia - can be admired in its unique glass house daily from 10 am to 5 pm until April 13. The Palm House is open all season long. In pleasant temperatures, guests can discover exotic plants from South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Insider tip: the third of the Pillnitz plant conservation houses only opens its doors twice a year. During the "Open Orangery" on March 29 & 30, you can explore the winter quarters of around 600 potted plants from the inside.