Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Olympus M. Zuiko 7-14mm f/2.8 Lens
Shutter Speed
1/200 sec
Aperture
f/4
Focal Length
9mm
ISO
200
Ferdinandstein Vista Point view of Bastei Bridge
@kuhrmarvin
One of the most spectacular locations in Germany, this incredible bridge is perched on top of sandstone rocks that overlook jagged boulders and a colorful landscape. The bridge also has a centuries-old, medieval history that's withstood the test of time — the original structure was built in the 1800s and it still stands tall to this day.
Capture the bridge from an elevated vista point to see how after hundreds of years, the rock-carved passageway is still one of the country's most memorable sights.
Plan
Overview
Skill level
Easy
Accessbility
Public Location
Hours
Anytime
Fee
Free
Pack
- Wide-angle lens (9mm)
- Flashlight (for sunrise/sunset hikes)
How to get there
N50° 57' 46.62"E14° 04' 22.17"
This image of the Bastion Bridge was taken from the Ferdinandstein vista point.
First, park your car in the Parking Bastei Bridge lot (50.966220, 14.065717). Then, walk to the Ferdinandstein vista point. There will be signs that guide you to the vista point and the walk should take less than 15 minutes. Once you climb up the stairs of Ferdinandstein, face southeast and you'll see the bridge directly in front of you.
Tips
When to go
Best season
September, October, November
Best time
Late afternoon
Although you can visit the Bastei Bridge year round, I recommend visiting in the fall to capture the trees during their autumnal change. The burnt-orange color contrasts nicely against the stone structure and during blue hour, the trees appear illuminated.
In the summer months (mostly July and August), the bridge will have a beautiful glow during sunrise; however, during winter, the whole area can be slippery due to ice and snow. I advise against visiting during the colder months.
I took the photo in the late afternoon, just before sunset, when the lighting was subtle and soft.
If you're here for sunrise, the Ferdinandstein vista point can get very crowded. In the summer, and especially on the weekends, there can be up to 20 people lining up to shoot the sunrise at the viewing platform. Avoid the weekends altogether or come at least 30 minutes before sunrise to secure your spot.
Field tips
I used a very wide-angle lens here (9mm), but I also recommend using a telephoto lens so you can capture the details of the villages in the far-off distance.
Keep left on the platform to avoid unwanted foreground in your photo. You want a clean shot here, so try to wait for a clear view that's unobstructed by tourists and the platform.
Position yourself at a slight angle to have the different layers, depths and levels of the rock formation in your view.
Current weather
Lohmen
Overcast
58o
F
Sun
68o
57o
Mon
73o
53o
Tue
77o
57o
Wed
69o
56o
Thu
68o
49o
Blue Hour
02:03
58o
Overcast
Sunrise
02:50
58o
Overcast
Golden Hour
18:28
58o
Overcast
Sunset
19:21
58o
Overcast
Do nearby
I recommend visiting the Neurathen Castle within the compound. It was once the largest rock castle in this area of Germany and it holds great significance in Germany's history. Please note that there is a small fee for the entrance.
Locations nearby
