Fichtelbergbahn Steam Train: Oberwiesenthal-Cranzahl

The Fichtelbergbahn is one of the easiest cross-border adventures from Boží Dar: a steam-powered narrow-gauge railway, vintage carriages and the Saxon Ore Mountains rolling past the window. The line runs between Kurort Oberwiesenthal and Cranzahl, so visitors based in Boží Dar will usually start at Oberwiesenthal station.

Tours and rides

The line is about 17 km long, has 9 stops and takes roughly one hour one way. A full return ride takes around 2.5 hours. The steam locomotive and historic early-20th-century coaches make the journey feel like part transport, part time travel. You can ride the whole route, break the journey once, or combine it with stops such as Neudorf and the surrounding walking routes.

Use the official Fichtelbergbahn timetable and fare page for current departures. Individual travellers and small groups normally do not need a reservation; groups of 15 or more adults are advised to reserve seats free of charge via the reservation form. Wheelchair users and larger bicycle groups should arrange the trip in advance because suitable access points and vehicle capacity are limited.

Admission

Tickets are sold at Kurort Oberwiesenthal, Cranzahl, Neudorf and Vierenstraße stations; at other stops, buy from the train staff. Cash and card payment are available. Fares follow the current Fichtelbergbahn tariff, so check the official timetable and fares before travelling.

Practical information

Arrive early if you care about where you sit; the best seats in the historic carriages fill first. Pushchairs can be carried in the designated luggage carriage. Toilets are available at Oberwiesenthal and Cranzahl stations and also on the train. Dogs are allowed, but outside a carrier they must be kept on a short lead and wear a muzzle. Bikes can be carried; groups with six or more bikes should contact the railway in advance.

Directions and contacts

For visitors from Boží Dar, the practical starting point is Kurort Oberwiesenthal station, Bahnhofstraße 7, 09484 Kurort Oberwiesenthal. Oberwiesenthal is about 4 km from Boží Dar via the Boží Dar/Oberwiesenthal border crossing and can be reached by car, bike or on foot along local trails. Parking for Oberwiesenthal station is at public car park P1, about a 10-minute walk from the station.

Contact: SDG Sächsische Dampfeisenbahngesellschaft mbH, Fichtelbergbahn, info@fichtelbergbahn.de, +49 37348 151-0. The Boží Dar tourism page also has an English overview: Ride the steam train Oberwiesenthal - Cranzahl.