Erlau is a municipality located in the district of Mittelsachsen within the state of Saxony, Germany. It serves as a local administrative area situated in the eastern part of the country.
The current boundaries of the municipality were formed through several territorial expansions during the late 20th century. In 1994, Erlau absorbed the former municipalities of Beerwalde, Crossen, and Schweikershain, followed by the incorporation of Milkau in 1999.