In addition to the Bohemian Forest National Park, there is a variety of other hiking areas that are truly impressive. So on your trip to the Czech Republic, you should not only visit the impressive cities, but also soak up the country’s unique nature. We would like to give you an overview of the most interesting hiking regions.
Bohemian Switzerland should not be confused with the Bohemian Forest, but it is just as fascinating. Bohemian Switzerland is a diverse hiking area located in the northwest of the country, on the border with Germany. Together with Saxon Switzerland, it forms an impressive sandstone massif. Since 2000, Bohemian Switzerland has not only been regarded as a wonderful place for unique natural phenomena, but also as a national park. You can reach this wonderful hiking area within one hour from Dresden or within two hours from Prague.
If you enjoy hiking and are planning an extensive hike in Bohemian Switzerland, you definitely shouldn’t miss the highlights of this place. Characteristic of the area are the sandstone rocks, which come in many shapes and can appear as bizarre towers as well as walls. Don’t miss the Tyssa Walls (Tiské stěny). You should also explore the distinctive table mountains. Let yourself be captivated by this unique landscape and be sure to glimpse the highest mountain of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains: Děčínský Sněžník (Hoher Schneeberg, 723 m).
A special highlight is Europe’s largest natural rock arch, Pravčická brána. It is considered the landmark of Bohemian Switzerland and spans 26 m. Also worth seeing are the various gorges and valleys—pay particular attention to the Edmund Gorge and the Wild Gorge. You can explore both in more detail on a guided boat ride. In addition, you’ll find idyllic forests and rivers in Bohemian Switzerland—and even small waterfalls to discover.
You can explore all these highlights on various hiking routes. Bohemian Switzerland offers a wide variety of hiking trails for an adventure-filled outing. You can choose between different lengths and decide whether you prefer a day trip or a multi-day hike.
One beautiful hiking route runs from Hřensko to the scenic table mountains, the Kaiserkrone and Zirkelstein route. Start in Hřensko by ferry to Schöna or take the train from Děčín to Schöna. From there, follow the signposts and get to know the village of Schöna. After a 30-minute walk, continue to Kaiserkrone and Zirkelstein. Including the out- and return-journey, this route takes about three hours in total.
A longer option is the large circular hike, the Hřensko loop. It covers the following places: Hřensko (start and end), Janov, Wild Gorge, and Pravčická brána. You start again in Hřensko, a small town in the Elbe Valley often regarded as the gateway to Bohemian Switzerland, where you’ll find many more hiking routes besides this one. Then continue on foot or by bus to Janov, a village above Hřensko that rewards you with lovely views of the Elbe Valley. From here, begin the actual hike and follow quiet forest and field paths before entering the rocky region of Bohemian Switzerland. On this loop you’ll encounter various highlights such as the Wild Gorge. Here you can take a boat ride through narrow rock canyons and discover small waterfalls. Also along this route is the Pravčická brána, the symbol of Bohemian Switzerland, with viewing platforms that offer breathtaking views of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. After this spectacular finale, head back to Hřensko by descending from Pravčická brána to Tři prameny and taking the bus from there. In total, this day trip takes about seven hours, though the duration may vary if you add the boat ride. Beyond these two routes, you can of course link hikes in Bohemian Switzerland with Saxon Switzerland to create multi-day adventures. Other viewpoints worth considering in your planning include those near Jetřichovice and Belvedér by Labská Stráň (the oldest viewpoint over the Elbe Valley).
Bohemian Paradise is one of the Czech Republic’s best-known protected landscape areas. It was declared a protected landscape area back in 1955 and is located in the northeast of the country. You can reach this hiking paradise in just one hour from Prague. This means you can perfectly combine your city trip to the capital with a day excursion to Bohemian Paradise. Characteristic of Bohemian Paradise are its intriguingly shaped sandstone rocks and rock towns, where you can discover formations such as lofty towers, narrow gorges, and rock needles.
Particularly popular are the rock areas Prachovské skály (Prachov Rocks), Hruboskalsko, and Malá Skála. The Prachov Rocks (Prachovské skály) are very popular and impress visitors with unique sandstone formations, narrow gorges, viewpoints, and rock needles. You can explore the Prachov Rocks on various circular trails, ranging from shorter walks to longer hikes. Especially recommended are routes leading to the viewpoints Vyhlídka Českého ráje or Vyhlídka míru.
The large Hruboskalsko sandstone massif consists of over 400 rock towers reaching heights of up to 60 meters, making it especially popular with climbers. Hikers also get their money’s worth at the numerous viewpoints. Discover the ruins of Trosky Castle or Hrubá Skála Chateau and enjoy wonderful views from there. In the Jizera Valley lies Malá Skála, known for striking formations like Suché skály, which rise from the ground like a jagged wall—often called the “Dolomites of Bohemian Paradise.” Malá Skála is also ideal for water-sports enthusiasts: enjoy the landscape on a canoe trip.
Thanks to the interplay of nature and culture, hikes in Bohemian Paradise are very varied—you certainly won’t get bored! You can also deepen your understanding of the country’s history by visiting the small historic towns around Bohemian Paradise, such as the villages of Jičín and Turnov.
Another special highlight of Bohemian Paradise is the Bozkov Dolomite Caves. Located on the edge of Bohemian Paradise, they have been open to the public since 1969. The Bozkov Dolomite Caves were declared a national natural monument in 1999. Particularly impressive are the underground lakes that create a unique atmosphere. This spot is a welcome cool-down in summer, as temperatures in the caves remain relatively low. You should definitely not miss the Bozkov Dolomite Caves on your trip!
The Ore Mountains stretch along the border between the Czech Republic and Germany. The name varies by country: in Germany they are called the Erzgebirge, while in Czech they are Krušné hory. Overall, the Ore Mountains extend for 150 km and are known for their forested slopes, plateaus, raised bogs, and mountain meadows. A special highlight is the range’s highest peak, Klínovec (1,244 m).
The Ore Mountains are known not only for their peat bogs but also for the region’s past. They are an old mining region where silver, tin, and later uranium were extracted from the Middle Ages onward. For this reason, the “Mining Cultural Landscape Erzgebirge/Krušnohoří” has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 2019. Interesting places to find remnants of this era and learn more about mining history include Jáchymov (Sankt Joachimsthal), a historic mining town. You should also visit Krupka, another old mining town, which today has a tin-mining museum. The Renaissance town of Horní Blatná is likewise worth seeing. And if the region’s history and culture aren’t your main interests, the Ore Mountains still have much to offer—let their unforgettable nature enchant you!
One of Central Europe’s largest raised bogs is located in the Ore Mountains. The Božídarské rašeliniště peat bog (Boží Dar Bog) is one of the region’s unique natural phenomena. You can explore the bog on the Boží Dar Educational Trail, which leads you through part of the national protected area over a total of 3 km. The trail begins near the Ore Mountains ridgeway and leads over boardwalks into the bog to protect nature and visitors.
In addition to the bog, you should explore the plateau around Boží Dar and Klínovec and be captivated by the wide meadows, forests, and spectacular viewpoints. Klínovec (Keilberg) is the highest mountain of the Ore Mountains at 1,244 meters. It is popular not only in summer but also offers exciting winter fun. Alongside the unique views from the observation tower on Klínovec, the area features wonderful routes for hiking, cycling tours, and Nordic walking. In winter, the area transforms into an excellent ski region that delights skiers and snowboarders. You can reach Klínovec by car or via the red-marked hiking trail from Boží Dar. There is also a cable car near Jáchymov that takes you up the mountain.
Beyond the bog and Klínovec, the Ore Mountains offer much more. On your tour, be sure to visit the deep valleys and rivers, such as the Ohře (Eger) and Bystřice. Just as diverse as the landscape is the region’s flora and fauna. On a hike to the bog, keep an eye out for rare plants, and on a leisurely walk you might spot black storks or red deer.
By now it’s clear that the Ore Mountains are perfect to explore on foot or by mountain bike. Particularly popular is the long-distance ridge trail, stretching for 242 km—an unforgettable multi-day adventure. This long-distance route (the Ore Mountains Magistrale) can be completed on foot or by bike. Note that you’ll need to plan plenty of time, and multi-day hiking and cycling adventures are best suited for experienced travelers. If you’re less experienced, you can split the route into several stages and opt for shorter hikes.
You can also discover the Ore Mountains on an ascent of Klínovec. These tours typically start in Jáchymov or Boží Dar and reward you with unique views of the spectacular mountain range. In addition, the Stoneman Erzgebirge is a popular mountain-bike route and a true paradise for adventure-seekers; it runs through both Germany and the Czech Republic. Whether hiking or biking, you can also enjoy the ski resorts in winter. The best-known areas are Klínovec, Boží Dar, and Loučná pod Klínovcem.
The Giant Mountains are known as the highest mountain range in the Czech Republic and welcome you with diverse nature and countless hiking trails in the warmer months. If you visit in winter, they are also among the most popular destinations for winter sports. You’ll find more information about the Giant Mountains as a ski area in our guide. The range lies along the border between the Czech Republic and Poland, and is easily reached from Prague (about a 2-hour drive) or from Jelenia Góra on the Polish side (20–30 minutes by car). The Elbe River rises in the Giant Mountains before winding through the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. Glacial features, raised bogs, mountain meadows, and dense spruce forests enrich the region. Overall, the range extends 35 km in length and 20 km in width. The highest peak is Śnieżka/Sněžka at 1,603 m, making it the highest mountain in the Czech Republic. You can reach Sněžka by hiking from Pec pod Sněžkou or by cable car.
The Czech side of the Giant Mountains has been protected as a national park since 1963 (Krkonošský národní park, KRNAP). On the Polish side, the national park is known as Karkonoski Park Narodowy. Together, the two parks form a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You can be sure to encounter unique flora and fauna—spot alpine plants and observe rare birds and lynx, among others.
In addition to flora and fauna, you should visit the Elbe Spring on your trip. It is a symbolic source of the Elbe, artistically designed and adorned with the coats of arms of European rivers. The Elbe Spring is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Giant Mountains and can be reached from Špindlerův Mlýn. Also worth seeing is the Elbe Valley (Labský důl), a glacial cirque with breathtaking rock walls and waterfalls. Immerse yourself in the pristine nature of the Giant Mountains and take on a challenging hike for a one-of-a-kind adventure. Don’t forget to visit the Mumlava Waterfall (Mumlavský vodopád), one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Giant Mountains at 10 m high—easily accessible and ideal for families. If you’d like to venture onto the Polish side, discover the Śnieżne Kotły (Snow Pits), two large glacial cirques with steep walls. From there, you can enjoy unique views of the main ridge. And if you like legends: the mountain spirit “Rübezahl” is said to be the symbol of the Giant Mountains—you’ll encounter him in many places here.
The Jizera Mountains are located in the northeast of the Czech Republic and border Poland. The range is named after the Jizera (Izera) River and is easily reached from Czech cities such as Liberec or Jablonec nad Nisou. The highest mountain is Smrk (1,124 meters), which also borders Poland. Characteristic features include expansive plateaus, granite rocks, raised bogs, and deep valleys. Since 1968, the area has been protected as the CHKO Jizerské hory (Jizera Mountains Protected Landscape Area). The range is famous for its unique peat landscapes and rare plants and animals, such as the capercaillie and the black stork. You can explore the Jizera Mountains on various educational trails that lead through bogs and nature reserves.
The Jizera Mountains and their surroundings are also shaped by a rich culture and history. In Jablonec nad Nisou, the legacy of the glass industry is omnipresent. Visit glass museums and manufactories that bring the history of the region to life and allow you to experience its culture. The area also features historic mountain villages with traditional architecture that will transport you back in time.
First, make note of and be sure to visit the range’s highest peak, Smrk. From there, you can enjoy unique views of the landscape—and even climb modern observation towers. You should also visit Ořešník at around 800 meters, a striking rock near Hejnice offering spectacular panoramas. Only slightly higher is Tanvaldský Špičák (831 meters), which also has an observation tower. In winter, the area transforms into a true ski paradise. Another observation tower (Královka Tower) is located in Bedřichov. In summer, the granite rocks (Frýdlantské cimbuří) are a popular destination—especially among climbers, though hikers also love them.
No visit to the Jizera Mountains is complete without exploring the Jizerka Plateau, a secluded moorland dotted with charming cottages that create an idyllic atmosphere. Boardwalks and educational trails guide you through the landscape. Also worth seeing are the peat ponds and raised bogs characteristic of the range, providing habitat for rare plants and birds—a true paradise for nature lovers.
In addition to diverse flora and fauna and numerous viewpoints, the Jizera Mountains are known for their waterfalls. Discover the cool waters and be enchanted by the beauty of gently cascading streams. Be sure to look for these waterfalls during your visit:
Use the various hiking and cycling routes for your adventure. The Jizera Mountains are especially known for their extensive network of hiking trails, with numerous marked paths that safely guide you through nature and lead to many scenic viewpoints. Beyond hiking, you can also enjoy the outdoors on climbing tours or mountain-bike trails. The Jizera Mountains are also among the country’s ski regions, particularly famous for cross-country skiing, with trails totaling over 180 km. It’s no coincidence that the renowned international cross-country race (Jizerská 50) takes place here every year.
If you decide to visit the Jizera Mountains, you can be sure you won’t be bored. Explore viewpoints and hike to impressive peaks. Use your keen eye to spot birds like the black stork or discover rare plants. Let yourself be captivated by the magic of the Jizera Mountains and marvel at the granite boulders of the landscape—especially the Polední kameny (Noon Rocks). Even if you travel to the Czech Republic in winter, the Jizera Mountains will welcome you with open arms.
The Hrubý Jeseník (Jeseníky) lies in the northeast of the Czech Republic and spans parts of Moravian-Silesia and North Moravia. It also belongs to the Sudetes. Known as the second-highest mountain range in the Czech Republic, it ranks just behind the Giant Mountains. The highest peak in the range is Praděd (Altvater) at 1,491 meters, making it the third-highest mountain in the Sudetes. Typical features include dense forests, glacial cirques, raised bogs, and waterfalls—a great diversity awaits you here. The area has been protected since 1969, and a strictly protected nature reserve with rare plants surrounds Praděd. You can also find black storks, capercaillies, and lynx here, as well as rare owl species.
The region is also shaped by its past and is rich in legends and folklore. Central among them is Praděd (Altvater)—the mountain’s namesake—depicted as a mystical giant or mountain spirit. The range is home to historic spa towns dating back to the late 18th century. As in the Ore Mountains, mining once took place here; silver and iron ore were extracted.
Praděd is not only the highest mountain in the region but also its symbol. A television tower on the summit offers a unique panoramic view across the entire range to Poland and the Giant Mountains. Also worth seeing are Keprník (1,423 meters), Šerák (1,351 m), and Vysoká hole (1,464 m). You can reach Šerák not only on foot but also by cable car.
Beyond the impressive peaks, the range is enriched by a variety of waterfalls. Discover Moravia’s highest waterfall at 45 meters (Vysoký vodopád), or follow a trail along cascades, rapids, and bridges through the Bílá Opava Valley to its waterfall. Equally worth visiting is the Rejvíz Bog, the largest raised bog in Moravia, complete with an educational trail. The spa town of Karlova Studánka is also located here—famous for having the cleanest air in Central Europe.
In the Jeseníky, you can plan wonderful hikes, from easy walks to challenging mountain tours, on a dense network of marked trails. You can also explore nature by bike or mountain bike, with various trails along ridges and through valleys. The range is also one of the Czech Republic’s ski regions, with several ski resorts and opportunities for cross-country skiing. Notable ski areas include Praděd/Ovčárna, Červenohorské sedlo, and Ramzová.
The Adršpach-Teplice Rock Town is one of the most popular nature destinations in the Czech Republic and an absolute highlight for hikers and climbers. The rock town is located in Northeast Bohemia near the town of Teplice nad Metují, close to the Polish border, making it easily accessible from Poland as well. Adršpach-Teplice forms part of the Broumovsko Protected Landscape Area (CHKO Broumovsko), which covers 430 square kilometers and impresses visitors not only with the rock town but also with sandstone cliffs, table mountains, and gorges.
The rock town is among Europe’s largest sandstone rock cities, formed by erosion over thousands of years. Broadly speaking, it is divided into two main areas: Adršpach and Teplice. Many rocks have their own names that reflect their appearance, such as “Lovers” or “Giant’s Jug.” Particularly fascinating are the narrow rock crevices and imposing rock walls, which can reach heights of up to 100 meters. Don’t miss the small caves, either.
In the Broumovsko protected area, you can enjoy excellent hiking excursions as well as climbing adventures. There are countless hiking routes and over 1,700 climbing routes, promising a varied journey. Popular circuits include the Adršpach Loop (about 3.5 km), which takes you to unique rock formations and a picturesque lake, and the Teplice Loop (about 6 km), which is often less crowded.
The Moravian Karst hiking region is known for its breathtaking Macocha Gorge and the country’s unique cave chambers. Discover the fascinating flora and fauna and embark on a new hiking adventure. The Moravian Karst lies north of Brno, making it easy to combine a city trip with an outing to this region. The city of Brno is definitely worth a visit for its diverse architecture, while the South Moravian countryside offers a peaceful counterpoint that enriches your holiday. Covering 92 square kilometers, the Moravian Karst is the country’s most significant karst area and has been protected as a landscape area since 1956.
Typical karst features make this hiking region a popular destination. Discover a wealth of caves, unique sinkholes (dolines), idyllic valleys, swallow holes, impressive gorges, and underground rivers. The region boasts over 1,000 known caves, the highlights of which include the Punkva Caves, the Kateřinská Cave, and the Sloupsko-šošůvské Caves.
The Punkva Caves impress with their variety: discover underground rivers and experience the cave from a different perspective on a boat ride as part of a guided tour. The Kateřinská Cave—often called a cave labyrinth—enchants visitors with spectacular, colorful dripstone formations and is considered one of the most beautiful underground spaces in the Czech Republic. Guided tours are available if you’d like to learn more. The Sloupsko-šošůvské Caves form an extensive complex of passages and steep chasms on two levels, offering deep insights into the world beneath the surface and, again, stunning dripstones. The complex also includes the remarkable Kůlna Cave, where Neanderthal remains were found—evidence of very early habitation.
In addition to these three caves, the Rudice Sinkhole (doline) is another highlight. Together with the Býčí skála (Bull Rock) Cave, it forms the second-longest cave system in the Czech Republic, with a total length of over 13 km. Here, the Jedovnický Stream disappears underground and re-emerges at Býčí skála in Josefov after a 12 km journey. The stream drops to a depth of up to 90 meters, creating one of the country’s highest underground waterfalls. The Rudice Doline is thus considered the largest sinkhole (deepest dry abyss) in the Moravian Karst.
Equally unique is the impressive Macocha Gorge, which yawns to a depth of around 138 meters. It is the largest of its kind in the Czech Republic and in all of Central Europe. Owing to its immense depth, legend has it that it is bottomless—even though you will indeed see the bottom during your visit. The greenery lends the gorge an almost mystical air that transports you to another world. This natural phenomenon is a must-see. Take in the breathtaking depth from two viewing platforms and follow the picturesque trail to the Punkva Caves.
You can explore the Moravian Karst via a wide selection of hiking and cycling routes. On your adventure, discover additional castle ruins, lookout towers, and churches throughout South Moravia. Choose family-friendly routes for an easygoing experience, or tackle more demanding paths to deepen your connection with the region’s nature. Circular hikes through the Punkva Valley are especially popular; along the way, you can visit the caves and enjoy unforgettable views of the Macocha Gorge. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can also explore the area by mountain bike or on a climbing adventure.
Note that it can be busier in summer than in other months. For this reason, it’s a good idea to buy tickets or make reservations for the highlights in advance. It would be a pity to arrive and find the Punkva Caves fully booked after a long hike.
The Beskids are an extensive mid-mountain range running along the borders of the Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovakia. They belong to the Carpathians; the highest peak on the Czech side is Lysá hora (1,323 m). The best-known areas of the Beskids lie in North Moravia and Silesia. Characteristic features include forested ridges, broad valleys, and numerous viewpoints. Parts of the range are included in the Beskydy Protected Landscape Area. The region is known for its diverse flora and fauna. Nature lovers can explore the Beskids on their own and become better acquainted with the dense forests. Discover lynx and wolves among spruces and firs and let yourself be enchanted by the idyllic atmosphere.
There are many ways to explore nature here, and one thing is certain: you’ll be impressed by the variety. The Beskids promise a wonderful mix of culture, tradition, and unforgettable natural sights. The mountains themselves are a highlight of the range. Hike to the highest peak, Lysá hora, for incredible far-reaching views—especially rewarding at dawn or sunset. You should also visit Radhošť, named after the pagan deity Radegast; on the summit you’ll find a statue of Radegast and a small chapel. If you already know these two peaks, don’t miss Pustevny. This saddle takes visitors on a journey into the past, featuring traditional Art Nouveau wooden buildings designed by architect Dušan Jurkovič—an ideal place to discover folk architecture and immerse yourself in local traditions.
The Beskids are renowned not only for their countless hiking routes and cycling paths but also as a popular destination for winter-sports enthusiasts. The mid-mountain terrain is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Well-known ski areas include Bílá, Velké Karlovice, and Pustevny. The Beskids are also a place for relaxation, with various wellness options nearby—unwind at the spas in Rožnov. Other worthwhile destinations are close at hand, such as the picturesque town of Štramberk, where you can explore the castle ruins of “Štramberská Trúba” and sample traditional dishes, or the nearby Wallachian Open-Air Museum to experience traditional Czech life.
The White Carpathians lie in the southeast of the Czech Republic and border Slovakia. As their name suggests, they are part of the Carpathian range and count among the country’s most beautiful hiking regions. The highest peak reaches 970 meters, offering a wonderful panorama—don’t miss Velká Javořina. The White Carpathians have been protected since 1980 and were recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve in 1996. They are characterized by species-rich flower meadows, orchards, gentle hills, forests, and pastures—creating an idyllic, harmonious landscape perfect for relaxing hikes and quiet contemplation.
If you decide to visit the White Carpathians, be sure to explore the flower and orchid meadows. Let your gaze drift across a sea of colors and enjoy the spring air in May and June, when the meadows are in full bloom. It’s no coincidence that the orchid meadows here are among the most species-rich in Central Europe. In addition to the meadows, don’t miss the traditional villages, where you can discover painted houses and get closer to Czech traditions.
If you’re a wine lover, the wine region at the foot of the White Carpathians may interest you—this is where the South Moravian wine-growing area begins, a perfect place to round off your hiking adventure. Many old traditions are still alive in the White Carpathians, and numerous folk festivals are held. A cultural highlight is the King’s Ride of Vlčnov (Jízda králů), a famous folklore festival that is part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Another highlight is the Velký Lopenik observation tower (911 m), which offers wonderful views—be sure to include it on your hike. Of course, you can explore nature here not only on foot but also by bike. In winter, parts of the Carpathians transform into small ski hills, so you can enjoy the White Carpathians year-round!
We wish you a great trip to the Czech Republic and lots of fun on your exploration of its many hiking regions. Don’t forget to check the country’s toll requirements. You’ll find information about the toll system in our guide. You can also use our route planner to plan your journey more easily and see the matching toll products. If you have any questions, we’re happy to help. Contact us via email.
