Saxony's youth hostels are expanding their offers and want to increase the number of overnight stays again this year. The goal is a double-digit increase of at least 10 percent, said the chairwoman of the state association, Susan Graf, to the German Press Agency. The most important target group is still school classes. However, the hostels are also in demand from clubs and families.
They also offer accommodation in historical locations such as the old fire station in Plauen, a fortified tower in Bautzen or castle complexes such as Augustusburg and Colditz Castle. "Such historical locations are definitely a highlight," said Graf. There are also locations in the major cities of Dresden, Leipzig and Chemnitz - in Chemnitz in a former Bauhaus-style substation.
While overnight stays in the cities are in demand, it is also important to have a presence in the countryside, explained Graf. Especially for school trips for younger children, cities are often out of the question and a short journey is important. However, the 27 listed facilities are also growing: a new youth hostel is currently being built on Lake Markkleeberg, which is due to open in 2026.