The Devil’s Bridge (Rakotzbrücke) might be the most enchanting attraction we saw on our Germany trip. It’s an incredible stone arch that spans over a small lake in a serene park, making you feel like you’ve walked into a mystical fairytale.
There are many Devil’s Bridges in Europe and a handful of tales about how they were built. While the stories differ, they generally involve the bridge being constructed with the help of the devil, who demands the soul of the first to cross it. But in the end, the builder outwits the devil by sending an animal across first, and the devil vanishes in anger.
The legend around Rakotzbrücke takes a different turn. Instead of tricking the devil, the builder sacrifices his own life by walking across the bridge.
We visited during a short 3-day road trip from Berlin. If you’re in Berlin, you could easily make it a day trip as it’s just a 2-hour drive away.
Quick information
Location: The Devils Bridge
Website: Rhododendron Park Kromlauer
Entrance Fee: Free
Free Parking: No
Paid Parking: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
The history
This Devil’s Bridge, built in the 19th century in Kromlauer Park, is known for its perfect circular reflection in the water, which creates the illusion of a full circle. Herrmann Friedrich Rötschke acquired the Kromlau estate in 1842 and is known for designing the park and iconic Rakotzbrücke. His legacy is a testament to his love for nature and innovative landscape design.
Parking and restrooms
A large parking lot is across the street from Kromlauer Park and the Devil’s Bridge. You can pay at the parking machine in the lot.
At the end of the lot, there are a few restrooms. Make sure you have coins because you must pay to enter. I had to go and had no coins (eek!), but I think it cost half a euro.
Exploring the Devil’s Bridge
You’ll cross the road from the parking lot, and then it takes a minute or two to walk to the Devil’s Bridge. From there, the trail loops around the lake, and there are several places to admire the bridge and take pictures.
We spent about 45 minutes exploring the Devil’s Bridge, which was enough time to walk around the lake and see the bridge from all different angles. I would’ve liked to walk around Kromlauer Park more, but it rained quite a bit, and we were soaked.
Views of the bridge from around the lake
The trail around the lake
Walking around the lake was a tranquil experience through bright green tree tunnels and flowers. When you get to the opposite side of the bridge, there are more trails to wander and a picnic area.
My husband spotted an adorable little tree home set up along the trail. There was no explanation, but it added to the fairytale-esque feeling you get walking around the park.
Nearby things to see
If the weather had cooperated better, I would’ve liked to check out nearby attractions. Here are a few other things I’d like to see.
Kromlau Castle and Cavalier House
The Kromlau Castle (Schloss Kromlau) is a short walk from the parking lot. It was built in the 18th century in the Baroque style and was part of the estate acquired by Friedrich Herrmann Rötschke in 1842. It’s now a wedding venue, but you can stop by and admire the castle and its surroundings.
Across the street from the castle is the Cavalier House (Kavalierhaus), a Swiss country manor house that now serves as a hotel.
Heaven and Hell Grotto and Judge’s Seat
About a 10-minute walk from the Devil’s Bridge is the Heaven and Hell Grotto (Grotte “Himmel und Hölle”), which features two stone caves: light and dark. Then, if you walk another 5 minutes, you can view Judge’s Seat.
Muskau Palace and Muskauer Park
Muskau Palace, located in Bad Muskau, is less than a 10-minute drive from the Devil’s Bridge. Built in the 19th century, it’s known for its neoclassical architecture and is surrounded by the stunning landscape of Muskauer Park, designed by Hermann, Prince of Pückler-Muskau. The park spans Germany and Poland and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.