Döllnitzbahn - "Wilder Robert" narrow-gauge railroad

The roots of the narrow-gauge railroad go far back into history. While countless industrial companies settled in the Saxon conurbations of Leipzig, Dresden and Chemnitz in the second half of the 19th century, the areas of central and northern Saxony were mainly characterized by agriculture. Railroad history and thus the industrial development of the region began in the area around Mügeln in 1884 with a provisionally set up beet transportation system. Over the course of time, the route network of the small narrow-gauge railroad was continuously expanded and reached its greatest extent at 91.7 km. Only 20 km of the original network remains today. The "Wilde Robert" not only transported agricultural products, but also kaolin until 2001, which is still mined in nearby Kemmlitz today. The transportation of kaolin by the narrow-gauge railroad ensured its existence for 98 years and was the main means of transport for many decades. In 1994, Döllnitzbahn GmbH took over operation of the 20 km long line between Oschatz, Mügeln and Glossen/Kemmlitz from Deutsche Reichsbahn.
 
Today, the Döllnitzbahn performs its tasks just as reliably as it did over 140 years ago. With its steam and diesel locomotives, the narrow-gauge railroad is one of the most important tourism factors in the region. It is not just an attraction for railroad enthusiasts, no, whole generations have grown up with the puffing sound and are familiar with it.

The journey with the "Wild Robert" begins in Oschatz. It travels along the small river Döllnitz, past the O-Schatz Park and the Rosenthal. After a 20-minute ride, the Döllnitzbahn leaves the small town of Oschatz in the direction of Mügeln and plunges into the meadow and floodplain landscapes of the Döllnitz valley. After a journey of around 15 km, passengers reach Mügeln, once Germany's largest narrow-gauge railway station. Once there, there is time for a short rest and the opportunity to explore the station a little more closely. Afterwards, the train sets off again on a narrow gauge, heading for Glossen or Kemmlitz. In Glossen, it is possible to change to the historic light railroad on certain days. On the return journey to Oschatz, guests can once again experience the fascination of the narrow-gauge railroad between tradition and the future.

On selected weekends and public holidays as well as at special events, the railroad romance invites you to enjoy. Events for families in particular, such as the Easter and Whitsun trips, the station festival and the Halloween trips, are very popular and attract numerous passengers from near and far. During the Open Monument Day in September, interested visitors are given an informative look behind the scenes of the Döllnitzbahn. Trips to the Mügeln Christmas market open the Advent season. The year comes to a cozy end with a hot cup of mulled wine and rides through the hopefully snow-covered landscape.