Viewpoint · Three-Country Corner

Dreisessel

The Dreisessel is a legend-shrouded granite mountain in the southern Bohemian Forest, lying right on the border between Bavaria and the Czech Republic and only a stone's throw from the tripoint with Austria. At over 1,300 metres, it is one of the most striking elevations in the region and a favourite day trip from Passau for anyone seeking forest, rock and far-reaching views.

The mountain owes its unusual name (meaning 'three chairs') to the impressive granite boulders formed by so-called spheroidal weathering, which look like three mighty armchairs piled on top of one another. An old legend tells that the three kings of Bavaria, Bohemia and Austria once held council here together — a fitting image for this place at the seam of three countries. Among the rocks, gnarled trees and bilberry bushes it is wonderful to clamber about and roam.

From the summit area and especially from the neighbouring, slightly higher Hochstein with its viewing platform, a wide vista opens over the endless wooded ridges of the Bohemian and Bavarian Forest, far into the Czech Republic and Austria. The climb from the nearby mountain inn is short and manageable even for families with children — a rewarding, nature-rich destination in the tripoint region.