Ottendorf-Okrilla: Nature, History and Activity

Ottendorf-Okrilla lies where West Lusatia meets the Dresden Heath Arc. Extensive woodland and meadow landscapes shape the area around the town and offer opportunities to enjoy nature. This means a stay can combine outdoor activities with local history. The contrast between landscape and history gives your trip more than one possible focus.

Exploring the outdoors

The municipality provides a guide to walking and hiking trails as well as cycling routes in the Ottendorf-Okrilla area. The routes listed can generally be completed on foot or by bicycle. This gives you the choice of a hike or a bike ride if you would like to include outdoor activity in your stay.

Cycling routes in the wider destination of Bautzen district

For broader planning in the wider destination of Bautzen district, there are separate cycling routes to choose from. The Bautzen North Tour is a 43.1-kilometre circular route from Bautzen via Quatitz, Großdubrau, Milkel, Klix and Malschwitz, returning to Bautzen. It passes through heath and pond landscapes and along the nature trail in Crosta. The Hill and Valley Route is a regional circular route through the West Lusatian hills in Bautzen district. The Krabat Cycle Route is also a regional circular route in the district and follows in the footsteps of Krabat, the hero of Sorbian legend. These descriptions offer different kinds of guidance: one route with a specified distance and a sequence of several towns, and circular routes themed around landscapes or stories.

Local history and crafts

In the Middle Ages, the Salt Road and the Bohemian Glass Road, among other routes, shaped Ottendorf-Okrilla’s development. The former Baroque village church burned down completely after being struck by lightning in 1873. The present-day Evangelical Lutheran church in Ottendorf-Okrilla was consecrated in 1875 after two years of construction.

Traditional charcoal burning continued in Moritzdorf and Okrilla until 2010. The digital local chronicle makes Ottendorf-Okrilla’s history accessible worldwide at any time. This means you can continue exploring the town’s history even when you are not there in person.

Teichwiesenbad and travel planning

The Teichwiesenbad is a clear option for planning your day: it has a 50-metre stainless-steel pool with seven swimming lanes. A swimming pool lift makes all areas of the facility accessible. If you plan to visit, check the latest operating information beforehand.

The day’s activities can therefore include different options: the routes listed in the municipal guide and the pool facilities at the Teichwiesenbad. Which takes priority depends on whether you prefer enjoying nature, exploring local history or spending time in the water. Ottendorf-Okrilla is close to the A4 motorway and has a rail connection to Dresden. For specific train travel plans, check the latest timetables.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Königswartha, Bautzen, Steinigtwolmsdorf, Spreetal, Schmölln-Putzkau, Ohorn, Lauta, Haselbachtal

Back to the main travel overview: Bautzen district.