National parks of the Czech Republic. Parks and nature reserves in the Czech Republic The most famous nature reserves and national parks in the Czech Republic
In addition to health and ski resorts, parks and reserves in the Czech Republic are very popular. Families with children are especially fond of being in the bosom of nature, as well as those who prefer active and healthy rest. Undoubtedly, after walking in the parks and reserves of the Czech Republic, you will have only wonderful memories! 
Due to the influx of tourists and nature lovers, the Czech government has issued a number of laws to protect the environment. Thanks to this, you can enjoy beautiful views of nature, not spoiled by the presence of garbage and waste. The amazing air deserves special mention - it is clean and satisfying. Anyone who has taken some time to walk scenic spots will remain deeply impressed.
The largest forest land in the Czech Republic is the famous Šumavsky national park... Thanks to the virgin beauty of nature, this picturesque place was included in the "golden collection" of UNESCO. The length of this park is about one hundred and thirty kilometers, the area is 685 sq. Km. That is why the park has no analogues, and other parks and reserves of the Republic cannot be compared with it either in size or in beauty.
If the Šumava National Park is the largest forest area, then the Krkonose is the most attractive and largest mountain range. If you are interested in the Czech handicap, then you will be rewarded with the contemplation of the most unusual and beautiful plants that can be. Here, in the Giant Mountains, everyone can get their own dose of adrenaline - it is the local mountains that invite you to enjoy a luxurious ski trip. Do not expect breathtaking heights - the mountains in the Czech Republic are not as high and impressive as in Austria or Germany. However, everyone who knows how to stand on skis will be able to ride "with a breeze".
The unique reserve "White Carpathians" enjoys a well-deserved world fame. It is here that you can see a variety of plants (there are about 2000 species in total), and rare specimens practically unknown to science are found.
Czech - beautiful country surrounded by mighty forests and picturesque mountains... In addition to the main reserves, there are many parks that are of value both on an urban and national scale. An excellent example is the national park with the self-explanatory name "Bohemian Switzerland", the nature here is amazingly beautiful. Summer camps also work in the Czech Republic, which not only combine active and interesting vacation, but also help with language learning. You can have a great rest in the capital of the Czech Republic - Prague and at the same time get to know the culture and locals better, learn the language and just have a great time!
1. Bohemian Switzerland National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Europe
Bohemian Switzerland is the youngest national park in the Czech Republic. It was officially opened on January 1, 2000. The area of the park is 79 km2. It is located in the stí Region and is adjacent to the state border where another national park begins - Saxon Switzerland. The main attraction of the park is a unique rock town. Here, tourists visit the observation deck near Etrshihovice, admire the Kamenice gorge and walk along the natural rock bridge Pravčické brana, which is considered the symbol of Czech Switzerland. Numerous monuments of folk architecture can also be seen along the perimeter of the park.
Website: www.ceskesvycarsko.cz
Address: Pražská 52, 407 46 Krásná Lípa
GPS: 50.914085 14.509806
Bohemian Switzerland, kudyznudy.cz
2. Nature Park Meander Plouchnitsa
This national park, located along the banks of the Ploucnica River between the towns of Mimon and Ceska Lipa, covers an area of 270 hectares. The greatest interest in this park is represented by endless meadow forests and fields with different types of plants and animals. The nature in this area is untouched, there are not even paths near the river: therefore, boat tourism is popular in the reserve.
Address: Meandry Ploučnice, 471 23 Zákupy
GPS: 50.633161 14.670934
Meander Plouchnitsa
3. Bohemian Grand Canyon - Greater America
The famous Western Lemonade Joe was filmed at this location. Once upon a time, unwanted political prisoners were also brought here. All of these are Vapentsov canyons, which are called Great and Little America. It's incredible a nice place located near the Karlštejn fortress in the Czech Karst, but not all tourists who visit the castle get to it.
Website: www.karlstejnsko.cz
Address: Karlštejn 334, 267 18 Karlštejn
GPS: 49.957515 14.194851
Velka America Canyon, kudyznudy.cz
4. Rock city Adrshpach
The largest rock town in the Czech Republic. It is located in the Adrspach-Teplice Rocks - the largest natural complex in Central Europe, which has been inspiring tourists and travelers since the 18th century. You will not see such a number of picturesque corners as in the Adrshpach-Teplice Rocks practically anywhere else. Many bizarre rocky formations lead hiking trails some can only be reached by stairs. Those who overcome all the steps will be able to admire the mountain lake and the Adrspash waterfall. There is another lake right at the entrance to the complex, which can be used for boat trips in summer (50 CZK per person).
Entrance to the park: 70 CZK
Website: www.adrspach.cz
Address: Dolní Adršpach čp. 26, 549 57 Adršpach
GPS: 50.614957 16.122890
Adrspach, kudyznudy.cz
5. Chalupska send - a lake in the largest peat bog in the Czech Republic
Lake Chalupska Slit is located at the mouth of the Vydrzha stream at an altitude of 910 meters. Oaks, spruces and numerous other plants grow around the largest peat lake in the Czech Republic. A small educational trail leads through the swamp to the lake, on which floating islands appear. You can get to the lake by asphalt and a wooden path along which there are many information boards.
Website: www.npsumava.cz
Address: Borová Lada-Svinná Lada 21, 385 01 Borová Lada
GPS: 48.998611 13.659167
Lake Chalupska send, kudyznudy.cz
6. Mshenske nicknames - giant rocky mushrooms in the Giant Mountains
The sandstone pillars near Mshen look like huge mushrooms. They appeared naturally as a result of weathering due to the fact that the upper part of the rocks with a higher iron content resisted erosion better than the lower. You can see this beauty in the Kokorzynski Dol Nature Reserve, one of the largest national parks in the Czech Republic.
Address: Mšeno
GPS: 50.438015 14.631287
Mshenske nicknames, kudyznudy.cz
7. Devil's pulpit in the Rychleb mountains - one of the most beautiful viewing platforms in the Czech Republic
The most beautiful natural observation deck of the Devil's Chair (Čertovy kazatelny) is located on the way to ancient fortress Loosebirds (3 km) in the Rykhlebskie mountains. The site is a formation of gneiss rocks with a high and steep southern wall, which resembles a pulpit in shape. From here, a beautiful view of the Rachi valley canyon and relict forests opens up. You can get to this place by car; parking is provided for tourists.
Address: Račí údolí, 790 70 Javorník
GPS: 50.368773 16.992611
Damn chair, kudyznudy.cz
8. Teplice rock town - a mystery of wild nature
Teplice Rocks are massive rocky walls that rise to the sky (in some places above 70 m) and the largest mountain labyrinth in Central Europe, narrow valleys and mysterious caves. Walking along the Teplice Rocks is a delight and adrenaline rush at the same time. The area is perfectly prepared for tourism, but in comparison with the Adrspash rocks, walking here is more difficult.
Website: www.teplickeskaly.com
Address: Horní 13, 549 57 Teplice nad Metují
GPS: 50.594966 16.169974
Teplice rock walls, kudyznudy.cz
9. Czech Sahara - sand dune near Vlkova
Vlkovski Barkhan, or Czech Sahara, is one of the most famous and most visited places of its kind in the Czech Republic. Here, pine trees and other plants grow on the pleasant yellow sand, and the wind creates bizarre sandy figures (albeit only a few centimeters high). As in any desert, the Czech Sahara is always warmer than the surrounding area, because the sand perfectly reflects the sunlight. You can get to the mini-desert from the parking lot at Horusický rybník.
Address: Veselí nad Lužnicí
GPS: 49.159418 14.713224
Czech Sahara, kudyznudy.cz
10. Beseditsky Rocks - a romantic natural labyrinth
In the Besedice Rocks, you will find a secret prayer house of Czech brothers and wonderful views. A walk through the rocky labyrinths of Kalich and Hlevishte in the Bohemian Paradise region will be an unforgettable romantic adventure. If you are into geology, you will love the nature trail with information signs. You can also walk around this complex with children, who will definitely like the narrow corridors between the rocks.
Address: Besedice, 468 22 Koberovy
GPS: 50.628287 15.208218
Observation deck on the Besedice Rocks, kudyznudy.cz
11. Peklo - a valley at the confluence of the Metuy and Oleshenka rivers
Despite the frightening name, Peklo (translated from the Czech language - the underworld, hell) is a rather popular and very beautiful national park in the Czech Republic in a romantic valley at the confluence of the Metuje and Oleshenka rivers. The park received this name in honor of old mill Pekelec, which was rebuilt according to the project of the architect Dusan Jurkovic into a tourist restaurant with elements of folk architecture. The restaurant is decorated with different features, and on the menu you can find several dishes on the "damn" theme.
Website: www.peklo-nemecek.cz
Address: Peklo u Nového Města nad Metují, 547 01 Nové Město nad Metují
GPS: 50.378614 16.186745
Peklo National Park, kudyznudy.cz
12. Khromnitskoe Red Lake - European unique
The water of the Red Lake is a weak solution of sulfuric acid. She is sterile and has no life in her. Iron compounds give the lake its red color. This is a unique natural landmark in Europe, which you can see for free.
Website: www.hromnice.cz
Address: Hromnice č.p. 60, 330 11 Třemošná
GPS: 49.850941 13.447312
Red Lake at Chromnice, kudyznudy.cz
13. Hruboskalsky rock town
Between the Wallenstein Fortress and the Hruba Skala Castle near Turnov, in the Bohemian Paradise, there is an unusual area called the Hruboskal Rock City. There are more than 400 natural towers here, the tallest of which reach 50 meters.
Address: Hrubá Skála
GPS: 50,544630 15,200404
Rough rocks, kudyznudy.cz
14. Broume Walls
Surrounded by virgin nature, the amazing rock formations are hidden in a 410 km2 Protected Nature Reserve. This area delights with its beauty, incredible views and mysterious rocks of bizarre shapes.
Website: www.broumovskesteny.cz
Address: Ledhujská 59, 549 54 Police nad Metují
GPS: 50.538096 16.236269
Broumovsko, kudyznudy.cz
15. Panchavski waterfall in the Giant Mountains - the highest in the Czech Republic
Panchavski waterfall is the highest in the Czech Republic. Its height is 148 meters. The waterfall cascades down the rocky steps to the Labska Valley. Near the waterfall, there is the Ambrozhova observation deck, from which beautiful view to the valley and mountains.
Website: www.krnap.cz
Address: Harrachov 442, 512 46 Harrachov
GPS: 50.754486 15.555267
Panchavski waterfall, Giant Mountains, kudyznudy.cz
The Czech Republic has incredibly picturesque nature and a huge number of national parks. In a small country, you can even see volcanoes! There are 9 nature reserves in the Czech Republic, 4 of which are national.
White Carpathians. This mountain reserve is a kind of border separating the Czech Republic from Slovakia. In 1996, these surroundings were recognized as a nature reserve, since about 300 species of rare plants were found here. The best time to come here is in the spring, when most of the plants are in bloom. In the area of this protected area there are cities: Godoni, Uherske Gladiste, Uherske Brod, Zlin. Here you will be given a warm welcome in high-comfort hotels.
Jizera Mountains. These mountains separate the Czech Republic from Poland. This reserve is quite old, it was founded in 1968. Here, the central object, which is guarded, is the unique architecture. You will see in this area Jizer - a primeval beech forest. Come here for a ski holiday.
Krshivokpatsko. This nature reserve is located in the valley of the Berounka River. Deciduous and mixed forests grow here. It's very easy to come here. The train journey takes only 20 minutes. The reserve is home to an incredibly large number of birds - black herons, eagles, black grouses, wood grouses. Picturesque forest landscapes are replaced by lake views. Deer are often encountered on the way.
Palava. Since 1988 it has been a UNESCO protected site. Here you can taste wine grown in local vineyards. In addition, there is a museum dedicated to the creation of this drink. This is a real paradise for everyone who likes underground travel, because it is in this reserve that a whole network is located underground caves... The good news is that a bike excursion is possible here.
Třebosko. This is another place that is under the protection of UNESCO. Since 1977, this area has been a nature reserve. Here you can see firsthand the royal carp, which are bred in the local lakes. And there are a great many lakes here. You will also have a great opportunity to taste local berries straight from the bushes - cranberries, lingonberries and blueberries. Also, you will be amazed big variety butterflies and unusual species insects. And also you can see the Renaissance castle and a large lake.
Šumava. Since 1961, the territory has been under protection. The Šumava mountain range stretches for 140 kilometers. It is here that you can find traces of the Ice Age - eight lakes and seas, the bottom of which is covered with stone. The forests here are practically untouched by humans. If you are lucky, you will spot such animals as otter, lynx, deer or eagle owl in the forest. The flora and fauna are surprisingly rich here.
Czech Switzerland. On this border there are special places - Pravchitsky gate and Falcon's nest castle.
It is surprising that the Falcon's Nest castle was built on the site of a beer hall. And Pravchitsky gate is a gate created by nature itself. They consist of solid rock.
In addition, in the reserve you will see the ruins of a mill (built in the Middle Ages), Falkenstein Castle (built on a rock) and other attractions.
Since ancient times, people have mastered the forests, valleys and hilly areas located on the territory of the Czech Republic. However, to this day in this country, many virgin, untouched by civilization corners with unique picturesque landscapes and landscapes. Rare species of trees and plants grow here, animals and birds are found, which in other European countries you can only meet in zoos. Stalactite caves with rivers and lakes blue with minerals beckon to take a journey through their mysterious labyrinths, rise up from the ground high rocks, overgrown with age-old spruce trees, stretches of forests for many kilometers, wide meadows intoxicate with the aromas of flowers ...
Even the borders of the Czech Republic with neighboring states are a product of nature itself. The Šumava Mountains, the so-called Bohemian Forest and the Ore Mountains, separate the Czech Republic from neighboring Germany. The border with Poland is formed by the Krkonoše Mountains, the highest in the Czech Republic. Right next to the Austrian border, in the northeastern part of Bohemia, there is another natural wonder - the Třebosko nature reserve: a beautiful valley with many the cleanest ponds and lakes. The banks of the largest rivers in the Czech Republic - the Elbe (in Czech Laba) and the Vltava, as well as the huge Lipno reservoir are also picturesque.
One of the most amazing natural treasures of the Czech Republic - the Rocky Cities - the result of tectonic shifts, climate change and erosion, a kind of combination of living and inanimate elements of nature. Rocky cities are in the territory nature reserves Bohemian Paradise and Bohemian Switzerland, as well as in the Adrspach-Teplice Mountains, are favorite vacation spots for climbers, as well as for ordinary travelers and cyclists.
Different parts of the Czech Republic wonderfully harmonize with each other, as if complementing each other. The hilly landscapes of Bohemia contrast with the wide valleys of North Moravia through which the Morava River flows. In the northern part of the Moravian Valley, the even lines of the horizon give way to the wooded hills of the White Carpathians, and even further to the north rise the majestic ridges of the "real" mountains - the Moraskoselezskie Beskud and Jesenik, forming a natural border with Slovakia and Poland.
The natural resources of the Czech Republic are so unique and rich that as many as six parts of it have been honored to be included in the list of UNESCO biosphere reserves. These are the areas of Palava with huge grape valleys, Krivoklatsko - the largest complex of deciduous and mixed forests in the country, where rare species of animals and plants are found, the Sumava National Park with virgin forests growing on mountain slopes, lakes of glacial origin and delightfully beautiful heather valleys. The list also includes the Třebo region, the Krkonoše Mountains region with their unique flora diversity and the White Carpathians, famous for their rare beautiful orchid meadows.
Czechs are characterized by a careful attitude to nature, which is why there are so many National Parks and protected areas in the relatively small territory of this country, which, undoubtedly, are one of the most important adornments of the huge treasury of this country.
The unity and harmony of the natural and anthropogenic landscape of the Czech Republic is perhaps one of the main features and at the same time the advantage of this country. Acquaintance with the cultural and historical heritage of its ancient cities can always be combined with relaxation in the bosom of nature. Moreover, the latter contains a lot of options. Kayaking among the steep cliffs of the rapid Berounka River, climbing routes of varying difficulty in the Rocky Cities of the Bohemian Paradise or hang-gliding in the same place, the ski resorts of the Krkonoše Mountains are for those who are committed to an active lifestyle. To lie down with a book on the beach of Machovo Lake, take a horse ride along forest paths or take a mountain walk, visit the unique karst caves of the Moravian Krasa for those who prefer a calm and peaceful admiring the beauty of nature to powerful adrenaline rushes. Recently, cycling through various picturesque corners of the Czech Republic has become more and more popular. Mountain, wine, "historical" trails - this most environmentally friendly and romantic form of transport allows you to do many interesting routes... The choice is always yours!
This is a very small country, it is difficult to argue with that. Its size does not even reach 80,000 square kilometers... But despite this, in magic land castles are as many as 1,350 state reserves and as many as 4 national parks. Just think, 12% of the entire territory of the republic is considered a protected protected area. And this is not a small figure for such a small country.
Although I visit the Czech Republic quite often now, out of four national parks I have so far managed to visit only one, which, in my opinion, is the most popular. And all because absolutely every person will find something to their liking here. This park is called "Krkonose".
Krkonoše National Park
This paradise is located in the very north of the Czech Republic right along the border with Germany and Poland.
As you probably already guessed from the name and location, it includes the large Krkonoše mountain ranges and areas of the foothills.
A trip to Mount Sněžka
The purpose of our trip to the Krkonoše National Park was the desire to climb Mount Sněžka ), which is itself high mountain in the Czech Republic. Its height is as much as 1,602 meters, which may seem small to some, but for me, a beginner in ascents, this is quite a lot.
There are several ways to get to the mountain, all roads start at different points in the Czech Republic. The most popular starting point is the town of Pec pod Sněžkou, where there are as many as three trails of varying length and difficulty, along which you can climb the mountain. Their lengths are 6.5, 8 and 11 kilometers. Here is a rough plan of the shortest of them, along which we were going to climb Snezhka.
In addition, for the lazy, there is a funicular, but this was not our option. The trip would cost € 14 (CZK 390) round trip for an adult. Sněžka can also be reached from the village of Horní Malá Úpa, after walking about 8 kilometers, and from resort townŠpindlerův Mlýn, the length of this route is about 11 kilometers.
Our choice fell on Pec pod Snezkou, since, to be honest, the tracks from there are the shortest. We also decided to book a hotel in this city for one night. There are many options and offers in this small town, it is quite possible to keep within the amount of 11-18 € (300-500 Kč) per person per night. There are also many guest houses, apartments and cozy mini-hotels.
We booked a hotel through Booking.com, as we always use this site. We drove to the town of Pec pod Sněžkou from Prague, the journey takes about 3 hours. You can go with or without transfers. We decided that we didn't want to stop anywhere and would go straight.
Our bus left the Prague metro station Černý Most at 7:20 and arrived at the Pec p.Sněžkou station at 10:31. This is the main bus station of the town. Everything was without delay, we bought a ticket online for 7 € (188 Kč) on this one, paying with a card.
There are other companies that you can use to get there. You can find the most convenient transport links on the website. You can also get there by train with several changes, but such a road is much more difficult and longer for several hours. So the direct bus is the most the best way.
Having reached the place, the first thing we did was check in. Our hotel turned out to be very small, we were greeted by the hostess herself - a very smiling and friendly Czech lady. Despite the warm welcome, we did not want to vegetate in the hotel for a long time, so we changed our sneakers, bought some provisions and set off on a long journey. It was a little scary, because we had to walk about 13 kilometers in a day, but we believed in our strength. In addition, the path promised to be very interesting and picturesque. Yes, and the weather was outstanding, it was not very hot, but the sky in front of us was clean and clear.
One way road is 6.5 kilometers. This is the shortest path of the three possible, it goes through the Růžohorky point. We started our journey right from the bus station, where we originally arrived. This is where all the tracks begin. First, you need to walk 250 meters down the highway, then turn left at the crossroads, choosing the road marked in green on the tourist sign. By the way, all tourist trails in the Czech Republic are accompanied by colorful signs, and it is almost impossible to get lost in the forest.
Following the markings, we successfully reached the top, no problems along the way. All the way we didn’t stop wondering how beautiful this Czech nature is. So we hardly noticed that we had traveled such a long distance. At the top, we took many beautiful photos, organized a small picnic and happily headed back down. We returned to the small hotel tired, but very happy!
In addition to Snezka Mountain, there are many other places in the Krkonose Park that definitely deserve attention: Luční hora, Studniční hora and Vysoké kolo, numerous rivers with waterfalls (Pančavske, Labský, Mumlavský , Horní and Dolní Úpský), the purest mountain lakes(Wielki Staw, Maly Staw, Sniezne Stawki, Mechove jezirko), about 1200 species of plants, 250 species of animals and about 600 species of insects, as well as beautiful rock formations.
In total, there are 700 kilometers of trails for pedestrians in the park. Every year this place is visited by about 10 million people from all over the world. In winter, the Krkonose is a favorite place for skiers and snowboarders.
Bohemian Switzerland National Park (České Švýcarsko)
This nature reserve is located in the northwest of the Czech Republic near the borders with Germany. The place is also sometimes called "Bohemian Switzerland" after the entire rocky region around the town of Děčín.
Interestingly, the name of the park has nothing to do with the country itself, but rather with two Swiss artists: Adrian Zing and Anton Graf. They worked on the reconstruction of the Dresden Gallery, and in their free time they traveled to small villages near the Saxon-Czech border. The artists chose these places so much that after finishing the work they decided not to return home, finding here a small homeland far from the real one.
The main attraction of the park is Pravčická brána or Pravčická brána. This is a large sandstone arch, its height reaches as much as 16 meters. Even a plane could easily have flown through such gates, so, you know, the spectacle is simply unforgettable.
A great number of climbers come to Bohemian Switzerland to conquer the local mountains. Other popular activities here are trekking and river rafting. In addition, in Bohemian Switzerland there are many walking paths of varying difficulty levels. As elsewhere, it is very easy to navigate using the maps, all routes are colorfully marked. There are also bike trails with lifting heights of up to 300 meters.
Getting to the park is easy. From Prague you need to get to the city of Děčín. It is easy to do it by train. In this case, the road will take about two hours, and you will be amazed by the stunning views that will open from the window.
The ticket price is about 6 € (156 Kč) and can be purchased at the main Prague train station (Praha hlavní nádraží).
On the territory of the Czech Switzerland there are several hotels of various price levels. They all offer a full range of tourist services, so you will always find something to do.
Šumava National Park
This park is located in the very southwest of southern Bohemia. Right next to the borders of Germany and Austria. It is there that the Šumava mountains stretch out. They are completely low, abundantly overgrown with forest, which occupies about 80% of the territory. The beauty and diversity of the park's nature is literally amazing.
Locals come here to take long walks in picturesque places, ride bicycles, in winter it is perfect place for skiers. All trails are colorfully marked as always, so it is almost impossible to get lost there.
By the way, in the park itself there are as many as 8 lakes, the water of which is crystal clear. These lakes lie at an altitude of 1,000-1,100 meters above sea level. And the wide meadows of Šumava are simply magnificent in their bloom.
There are many towns near the national park and are very easy to reach from Prague. You can get to the cities of Srní, Kvidla, Prášil and Modrava. In this case, the journey by train or bus will take from 3 to 5 hours. If you are coming from Prague, you will need to make one or two changes.
Podyjí National Park
The smallest national park in the Czech Republic is located in the region of Znojmo, in South Moravia, near the Austrian border.
Directly adjacent to the Austrian National Park "Tayatal". The Die River flows in the heart of this magical place. Interestingly, the maximum length of the park is only 15 kilometers, but the river meanders so much that its length in the territory is as much as 40 kilometers.
One of the most famous landmarks of this place is Šobes, a huge 12 hectare vineyard. In addition, the park is home to the oldest and open to the public Vranov nad Dyjí castle. It was built in 1100 or so. Those wishing to visit the place will be able to draw useful information on the castle.
Other famous sites in the national park include the Lusthaus hunting palace (Lovecký letohrádek Lusthaus). It was built in 1780 in the shape of an irregular hexagon in the late Baroque style and partly in the classicism style. From the palace that was conceived as observation deck, before you could look at the castle. But now the beautiful view is obscured by trees.
Access to this national park is easy from the town of Znojmo, where you can triple the night. You can reach the town by direct bus from Prague from the bus station ÚAN Florenc bus station. The trip will take about 3-4 hours, the ticket price is about 7-9 € (200-250 Kč). I can assure you that all the way you will not be able to take your eyes off the window, the views will be magnificent.
Finally
There are four such national parks in Czech Republic... This great places for those who like to enjoy long hiking... If you are one of these travelers, feel free to go to this country and appreciate its natural flavor. In this regard, it is truly unique!
