Scenic river cruise to Pillnitz Castle in Dresden

Pillnitz Castle, the summer palace of the kings of Saxony. (Photo courtesy of Dresden Marketing)

Pillnitz Castle, the summer palace of the kings of Saxony.
(Photo courtesy of Dresden Marketing)

By Richard Irwin, Staff Writer

For something different, jump on one of the eight historic paddle steamers owned by the Saxon Steamship Co. It gives you a chance to explore the picturesque Elbe River, which divides Dresden.

Beautiful mansions line the scenic riverbanks, the summer homes of Dresden’s rich and powerful families. Our tour stopped at Pillnitz Castle, the summer palace of the kings of Saxony.

The complex actually has three palaces interlinked. The palaces encircle a wonderful baroque flower garden, while a lovely public park surrounds the grounds.

The castle was originally bought for the mistress of John George IV. When he died, his brother, Augustus the Strong, gave it to one of his own mistresses.

Since it was a warm fall day, we also strolled through the English gardens, Chinese pavilion, conifer garden and orangery.

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