Sleepy: Grossenhain

Nestling in beautiful countryside, about ten kilometres north of Meissen, lies Grossenhain, where merchants and cloth makers prospered. Pride of place in the beautiful historic centre goes to the late baroque Marienkirche church, which passes for the ‘little sister of the Dresden Frauenkirche’. For more on Grossenhain history, the Museum Alte Lateinschule and Germany’s oldest public library are your best bets. Set amid baroque gardens and easily bikable from the Elbe Cycle Route, the enchanting Zabeltitz palais is equally enticing. Our recommendation: Röderauwald, a vast nearby nature reserve.