Czech Switzerland - the main attractions of the national park. Czech Republic: Czech Switzerland National Park Czech Switzerland

When on weekends good weather, many residents of the Czech Republic, especially residents major cities, rush to nature. Moreover, they go there not to drink and eat, but to take a walk or ride through beautiful places. We also try to maintain this tradition and go for walks in parks or forests. The recent weekend was no exception, and we went for a walk around Czech and Saxon Switzerland.

Czech Switzerland- this is one of four national parks Czech Republic, which is located right on the border with Germany. Crossing the border, you immediately find yourself in the German national park Saxon Switzerland. The main objects of protection of the park are the unique sandstone formations. Here you can find massive stone towers, arches, labyrinths that were formed due to centuries of erosion. The most famous rock formation is the Pravčická brána, which is the main goal of our walk.

Leaving Prague early in the morning, passing and crossing the bridge over the Elbe, we find ourselves in the town of Hřensko, where we leave the car in the parking lot between the rocks. Grzensko is a village with a population of only 200 people, which is located on the banks of the Elbe, and from which it is closest to the Pravcicka Gate. The distance from Hřensko to Prague is 130 km.

Parking costs CZK 120 per day. There are a catastrophic shortage of parking spaces; if someone abandons a car right in the middle of the road, he is given a fine and a wheel blocker is installed.

In addition to the car, you can get from Decin to Grzensko by bus; the travel time is approximately 30 minutes. In the summer months there is still a boat from Decin, which also reaches German city Bad Schandau. It is most convenient to get to these places from Prague.

If you want to stay overnight in Czech Switzerland, there are approximately 10 hotels and guesthouses in this area alone. The Forest Garden Hotel is the nicest hotel in the area and is very popular for its cleanliness, modern design and quiet location.

Not far from the parking lot there is a fork in the paths, along one of which we go up to the Pravčicka Gate, along the other we can reach the departure point for boats on the Kamenica River. During the boat ride, you will see the waterfall and enjoy the local beauty without straining your legs.

We meet the dawn in the forest. Forests cover 97% of the park's area, which is 79.23 km². Forests helped these places develop, since wood processing became the main activity of the indigenous population. After all, wood produced at local sawmills was supplied to shipyards and used to build sailboat masts.

Initially, the territory of the current park was dominated by beech forests, now spruce trees mainly grow here.

During our walk, we came across signs reminding us that it is prohibited to fly drones throughout the park. The fine for launching a drone can reach up to 200 thousand Euros.

And now we have reached our goal - the Pravchitsky Gate. Travel time from the parking lot uphill at an average pace is a little more than 1 hour.

A small castle was added to the rock formations in 1881, called the Falcon's Nest (Sokolí hnízdo).

Entrance fee to the territory of the Pravčicka Gate and the castle: 75 CZK. Entrance fee for children, students and pensioners: 25 CZK.

On the observation deck there is a restaurant and separate tables where you can have a picnic from your own food or buy sausages, soup, beer or any other hot and cold drinks in the tent. If you don’t want to eat here, then in the town of Grzensko there are at least 5-7 restaurants at guesthouses serving Czech cuisine.

The views from the observation deck are quite nice.

Some take selfies on the observation deck, while others hone their climbing skills; fortunately, the local rocks are suitable for this.

The park is home to 62 species of mammals. Wolves, bears, and moose have been exterminated here a long time ago. Now the park is home to beavers, various rodents, roe deer and wild boars. Also in the park there are 227 species of birds, 1000 species of butterflies, but the number of fish species is very low, and the park administration is working to revive the fish population in local rivers. For example, in just one year more than 1,200 salmon fry were released.

It is worth mentioning that Czech Switzerland is largest place nesting places for black storks and falcons.

The Pravčicka Gate, with a width of 26.5 and a height of 16, is the largest arched rock formation in Europe. The gate became a symbol of the park.

After a busy walk and a small picnic, we went to Saxon Switzerland, and we decided not to waste time on the rest of the sights of Czech Switzerland, since they are not very picturesque.

My first trip to “Czech Switzerland” ( České Švýcarsko) was of a random nature: while preparing for a Christmas tour of European cities (the main of which was Prague), I was looking for what to see in the territory different countries and how best to plan your route. And then I came across the Pravchitsky Gate. “What is this, where is it, how is it?” - there were no answers on the Internet, which means you have to go and explore everything yourself!

And on the way from Dresden to Prague after national park“Saxon Switzerland” (and I already talked about the trip there) I find myself in “Czech Switzerland”. The nature there is really different from what I am used to seeing in the center of the Czech Republic.

Yes, and visiting at least the main attractions promises leisure. On his second visit to national park already in the summer, and not in the winter, I spent the whole day exploring “Saxon” and “Czech” Switzerland: I left Dresden early in the morning and returned to Prague late in the evening. And this takes into account the fact that the distance between the cities is some 150 kilometers - not even intercity travel across Russia.

I had to walk a lot, so I advise you to be fully prepared: sports shoes (preferably with soft shock-absorbing soles, since my legs literally “buzzed” after just the Pravchitsky Gate), comfortable clothes, a bottle of water and maybe some snack.

So, what is “Czech Switzerland” like and what can you see there? I'll tell you now.

History of the park

I have not heard any legends or epics around the rocks, crevices and canyons formed here several thousand years ago due to the movement of volcanic rocks.

So I had to look interesting information herself. It turns out that in the 13th–14th centuries, colonialists were invited here from the lands where modern Germany is now located, and castles and other buildings were built by them. They also started glass production and coal mining. But due to the lack of plains and dense forests, their life was, to put it mildly, not simple and very specific. In one place, I saw with my own eyes that food and other necessary things cannot be delivered here so easily. But more on that below.

So, all this specificity was reflected in the architecture. But in the last century, many buildings and even settlements fell into disrepair. Probably, the opportunity and availability of an easier life played an important role and people simply simply moved. Now, in some places on the territory of “Czech Switzerland” you can see the most picturesque ruins!

I have already talked about the name of the park, namely the word “Switzerland”, so I will not repeat it. In 2000, this area was given the status national reserve.

Geography of the park

České Švýcarsko- all the same Elbe Sandstone Mountains that I talked about at More precisely, a quarter of this mountain range. The national park is located in the north of the country, its western border runs along the Elbe River. It was from there that I visited “Czech Switzerland” both times. Actually, both national parks (“Saxon” and “Czech”) are separated by the border between Germany and the Czech Republic; they are adjacent to each other.

The most high point National Park - Mount Decin Snezhnik ( Děčínský Sněžník) - located at 723 meters above sea level. When I first heard about this, I smiled: I arrived in “Czech Switzerland” shortly after Austrian Alps, where I lived in a hotel at an altitude of approximately 1,200–1,300 meters. But, after all, the reserve is not famous for its mountains!

Further in the text I added some cards. They will help you better understand the geography of the area, but they are unlikely to explain how to get to a specific attraction. But! In the near future locality for each of them (and they are visible on my maps) you can take a detailed paper map, as well as use signs along the roads and trails. The park took care of the convenience of sightseeing, which I personally really liked.

How to get to “Czech Switzerland”

There are basically two options: with a tour or on your own. I chose to travel in a rented car without guides or a group of onlookers. But for those who want to take a tour of the reserve, I advise you to read about tours from Dresden or Prague to “Saxon Switzerland” (I think they also offer tours to the Czech part). The prices, it seems to me, are similar, because there are parks in the neighborhood. Below I will tell you about an independent journey to “Czech Switzerland” by car.

From Prague

From Prague you can enter “Czech Switzerland” from different directions. There is an option to travel through Hřensko. It is not far from this city that the Pravchitsky Gate is located. By the way, the first time I read Hřensko as Hrensko (I didn’t notice the gachek above the letter “r”, which makes the sound [rzh]), and so it happened: to this day I refer to the innocent town almost as a vegetable (everyone makes associations to the extent of depravity, right?). I marked the route Via Khrzhensko on the map below, the first half of the route will pass through the highway, and then I propose to follow the usual highway past towns and picturesque fields.

You can also enter via Jetřichovice. To reach the town of Děčín, the route is the same as the previous one, and at the fork follow the signs.

Or Krasná Lípa. In theory, you can drive through the same Děčín, it seems to me that in terms of time it will not be too much of a detour.

But the last half hour flew by faster: there were still no toilets along the way, the flow of hikers was small, but there was always one, so now the attitude is “get there!” was supported not only by curiosity, but also by obvious necessity.

Along the way, I came across these cute “installations”: I don’t know who “propped up” the mountain and why, but the spectacle amused me.

And finally you can see the Falcon's Nest estate (now a hotel/restaurant of the same name) and the Pravchitsky Gate to the right of it. It would seem that you just have to extend your hand. This was not the case: the vertical distance from me to my destination was several tens of meters, which also had to be walked in a loop.

But all the efforts were justified. The height of the arch itself reaches 26 meters, so that, standing in this natural opening, you feel all the greatness of nature. In addition, near the gate there was a stall with my favorite ones. By the way, they were cheaper than: only 1.25 EUR or 34 CZK.

Once through the gate arch, you can see many paths leading to observation platforms. And literally “the whole world is at your feet.”

"Falcon's Nest"

Almost under the Pravchitsky Gate is the summer estate Falcon's Nest. Once upon a time, the owners accommodated noble guests there. Now inside the castle there is an exhibition about the history of “Czech Switzerland” and there is a restaurant.

The restaurant has preserved original paintings, and the interior is designed in the style of the beginning of the last century.

I didn’t have dinner at the restaurant, since the local employee, as I understood, had already closed it. To be honest, I couldn’t fully understand him: he agreed to speak only in Czech and German, so the conversation was almost “hands-on”. But they did let me into the toilet.

Near the Falcon's Nest there is a booth with the control of the cable car.

I understand that walking and carrying the necessary things is not easy here, so there is a utility box running along the cable car, where you can put the necessary things and send them upstairs or downstairs.

Lupežnice Castle or Schaunštejn

I heard that the castle used to be a robbery site. That is, it was built as a fortification, but later it was captured by robbers and changed its name. Šaunštejn translates as “thieves' castle”.

The castle itself has not been preserved, so at present you can be content with ruins and a good viewing platform.

Connecting bridges are laid between parts of this site. You know, the sensations are quite exciting when you walk like this literally next to an abyss along a connecting structure that is quite easy at first glance!

Dolský Mlýn

They say that the fragments preserved from the mill date back to the beginning of the 14th century!

I heard that in the middle of the last century the place even became the setting of a Czech fairy tale film. You could even say that the film glorified this landmark.

Over time, without maintenance, the mill deteriorated more and more, until in 2007 it was declared a cultural monument and the process of destruction was stopped.

By the way, a hundred meters upstream there is a unique building: a reinforced concrete bridge. I heard that this is the first such structure (made of steel and concrete) in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the bridge was built shortly before its collapse.

The closest village to the mill is Kamenická Stráň, a kilometer away.

Royal spruce

They say that half a kilometer from the Dolskaya mill there is one spruce. Its age is about 180 years, and the trunk span is about 3 meters. Alas, I myself did not see this ancient tree, since I was limited in time, but don’t be lazy and take a walk to it from the mill.

Hřensko

To be honest, I really liked this small town almost on the border with Germany. Most likely, there are few just residents here: almost everyone runs a hotel, restaurant or something else for the needs of tourists. But the 2-3 storey houses are decorated very authentically, this is exactly how small rural towns or villages seem to me.

I also liked the fact that globally there are only two streets in Khrzhensko, running parallel along the two banks. Of course, the high cliffs do not provide room for expanding the territory deeper.

If you drive along the river from the highway where you turned to Khrzhensko (remember, I asked you to remember this path?), then at the very end of it, in front of the parking lot, which I mentioned in the part about the Pravchitsky Gate, there is a waterfall.

Near it, I took two identical pictures towards the city: one in winter, and the second in summer.

The difference, in my opinion, is not big.

There are a lot of souvenirs near the track, but I didn’t buy anything there. It’s hard to say what the prices are: on the one hand, this is the Czech Republic, on the other, Germany and its prices are quite close. There is also another parking lot; you can ask the workers about a toilet nearby.

Other attractions

There are places where I was not able to visit, but I will definitely make up for it on my next visit:

• Dittersbacher peaks.
• Waterfalls near Brtnikov.
• A boat trip along the Křinice River (Kirnitzschklamm) on the border of the Czech Republic and Germany.

And this is just what remained in my ears after the trip. I'm almost sure that if you start digging, even less may emerge tourist places national park.

Routes around the park

IN currently In the park there are dozens of well-marked hiking trails and routes: signs, certain specific coverage and relief for the type of tourism, picturesqueness. In “Czech Switzerland” you can rock climb, ride horses, ride a bicycle, and camp in equipped areas (and only in them!).

True, I explored the territory on my own, without resorting to the help of tourist centers, but I can tell you the addresses of organizations that will help, if necessary, organize your leisure time:

• In the city of Krasná Lipa.
  • Opening hours: June - August from 09:00 to 18:00, January - February until 16:00, in other months until 17:00; break from 12:00 to 12:30.
  • Address: Krinicke nam. 5, Krasna Lipa 407 46.
• In Hřensko.
  • Opening hours: November - January from 09:00 to 17:00, in other months until 18:00.
  • Address: Hřensko 71, 407 17 Hřensko.
• In Srbska Kamenice.
  • Address: Nam. Miru 73, Ceska Kamenice, 407 21.
• In Jetřichovice.
  • Address: Jetšichovice 393, CZ - 407 16.

Among the main routes, I know, there are:

• To the rock gate (Pravchitsky): along ornate stones and paths, then along the rock wall (I passed it too). Then the program "Falcon's Nest" - a visit near the gate observation platforms on the tops of the rocks.
• To the Dolskaya mill.
• To Schaunstein.

Where to stay

If you want to choose camping over a hotel, then in the above-mentioned tourist centers you should inquire about special parking lots and set up outside equipped campsites tent city It’s impossible: it’s a specially protected zone after all.

If you are more attracted to the east, then choose Krasna Lipa or Hřibská.

Room prices start from 8–10 EUR for a campsite and from 45 EUR for a double room.

"Czech Switzerland" in winter

I was in the national park in winter, but their winter was quite slushy at that time, so walking along the forest paths was out of the question. Falcon's Nest Castle is, again, a summer castle. So we had to be content with waterfalls on rivers and towns around “Czech Switzerland”.

Also an aggregation of prices from all rental companies, all in one place, let's go!

Anything to add?

Nature created a large number of the most beautiful and incredibly beautiful places all over our planet. Millions of years of transformations and improvements have led to the emergence of such corners that can take away the power of speech. The same majesty and splendor can be found in the remote outskirts of the Czech Republic.

Czech Switzerland is a place that will certainly make you feel like you are in the middle of something great and magical. Amazing beauty nature, man-made monuments, entertainment and relaxation - you will find all this in this nature park. It is located in the northwestern part of the state and occupies about 80 square kilometers. It is noteworthy that Czech Switzerland is located right on the border with Germany, where the park continues, but under a different name. Incredible examples of flora and unprecedented representatives of fauna, steep cliffs, mountain streams, waterfalls, historical and natural buildings and colorful villages - all this will await you on a tour of Czech Switzerland.

Almost in the heart of Europe itself, the park is built around a canyon, through the crevices of which flows the beautiful Elbe River, or as it is called in the Czech Republic, Labe. The canyon itself begins in the town of Decin and extends to German territory. It is noteworthy that the canyon is based on unique sandstone rocks, which over millions of years have turned into highly artistic architectural structures created by nature. Also, it is worth noting that recently, namely since 2000, this natural Park received the status of a national reserve. Believe me, you will remember this trip forever.

The reserve will captivate any tourist, not only with its beauty, but also with the freshness of the air, crystal clear waters, greenery, and an amazing and harmonious combination of nature and civilization. Interesting fact we can name the reasons for the appearance of this canyon. For a long time now, pundits have come to the conclusion that such a rock formation appeared as a result of sea activity. However, when the water left this area many thousands of years ago, we were left with all this beauty as a legacy.

For the convenience of its visitors, a large number of observation platforms, viewpoints, places to sleep and relax, hotels and tourist routes for self-guided tours.

Czech Switzerland is notable not only for its nature, but also for the number of different tourist spots, which include:

• Decin complex (castle, zoo, water park);
• Pravchitsky Gate;
• The rock castles of Schaunstein and Falkenstein, and the ruins of Tolstein;
• Glass factory;
• Silver mine;
• Ruzhovsky Hill;
• Souteski, etc.

It is not for nothing that all these places attract a huge number of tourists, and each part is worthy of the most careful tourist study. Therefore, let's look at them in more detail.

Where to go in Czech Switzerland?

As in every yard, the first thing that greets you when you come to visit is the gate. We would also like to start our journey through Czech Switzerland with such a unique entrance as the Pravcicka Gate. A magnificent, huge natural sculpture that looks like a skillfully made arch. Their height reaches 16 m, and their width is 26 m. The magnificence and power that can be felt only by standing directly there under this sand and stone sculpture can never be compared with simple observation beautiful photos landscapes. This gate is one of those places that everyone should see. Any tourist will probably simply be speechless from such a spectacle. And although it is not possible to go into Bran itself, since this historical monument is protected from destruction, convenient viewing platforms have been specially built so that visitors can still enjoy the stunning views of the city. There is an entrance fee, but the cost is pleasant and one hundred percent worth it.

Pravcicka Brana (Pravcicka Gate)

In the mountain, next to the gate, right in the rock, there is the next attraction - the Falcon's Nest. This small castle gives the feeling that the rock seems to be swallowing the building. The building itself was built in 1881. Today it is a restaurant that is open to everyone. The interior is designed in the style of the last century, and the view from the window is simply extraordinary. In addition, on the territory of the castle-estate of the Clari-Aldringen clan, there is an extensive museum of the entire reserve.

Separately, I would like to mention the border town of Decin, which is historical monument Czech Republic, and it is from here that it begins tourist trip around the reserve. Picturesque places, beautiful landscapes and unforgettable experiences. The city is located in the northwestern part of Bohemia, at the place where two rivers – Laba and Plučnica – merge. However, most tourist spots can be found on the right bank of the Laba River. Here you can enjoy the beauty of Decin Castle, admire and meet the animals in the zoo (1949) and relax in the water park.

Decin map

Another town that cannot be ignored in this story is Grzensko, which is located on the very border with German lands. It is considered to be a kind of gateway to the hiking tourist part of the reserve. It is from here that you can forget about cars and noisy crowds - here begins the silence and beauty of walking along the paths that nature gave us. The city itself is full of places where you can stay overnight or find a place for a delicious lunch. A nice and nice hospitable city, which, among other things, is also located in an incredibly beautiful places. From houses local residents, hotels with spas and guesthouses offer unforgettable views of the rocks and wild nature.

A memorable place for any tourist will be the ruins of Tolštejn Castle, from the upper walls of which you can view beautiful panoramas of the Czech Switzerland nature reserve. The place itself is very long story, the beginning of which goes back to 1337. In addition, this place was considered the residence of robber barons. By going on a tour here, you can learn a lot of interesting things. historical information and touch our past.

Next, let's talk about the two rock castles Schaunstein and Falkenstein. Today, Shaushntein is represented only by intricate ruins that are scattered throughout the forest and at first glance resembles a picture from a children's book. But the main view point of this place is the top of the rock. You can find it only by not being afraid to climb the rocky staircase tunnel. However, once you are there, you will never forget what you saw. Falkenstein, like the castles mentioned above, was built exclusively for military purposes. Now you can take a walk in the center of Czech Switzerland through the romantic and historical places– there are restored and comfortable paths, viewpoints and convenient viewing platforms.

Perhaps, the territory of the Kamenice River can easily be called one of the most beautiful and picturesque places. The river itself is an example of a real picturesque landscape that nature could create. However, tourists also love it for other advantages. 2 streams flow into this river from both sides. In these places, it was decided to build two dams, as a result of which backwaters were formed extraordinary beauty– Tiha Sutjeska and Divocka Sutjeska. You can see the splendor of these places either on foot or by boat. However, you will still get more impressions by navigating the water in a canoe. Fun fact One can mention some discrepancy between the names of the outlets and their essence. For example, Divoka Sutjeska is a quiet, romantic haven for a slow boat ride and admiring the beauty of nature. Its length is only 250 m, but Tikha Sutjeska is several times longer, has more turbulent water, as well as a magical waterfall that tourists will encounter along the way.

In addition to the described attractions and interesting places, in the reserve you can enjoy the following tourist spots:

• Mouse hole. And although this place has nothing in common with small mammals, the point itself is very interesting. It tests your stamina and endurance. It is a steep path that will take you to the tops of the mountains in 3-4 hours;
• Village of Hřipksa. Bohemia is famous for the production of Czech crystal. Here you can witness all the action if you visit a glass workshop;
• Dolski Mlyn. Located directly on the territory of the reserve and is a medieval water wheel mill;
• Belvedere site. This observation terrace is a picturesque viewpoint created by nature. The site hangs over a canyon, inside of which the Laba River flows;
• Silver mines. At the site where silver mining activities took place in the recent past, they have now tourist entertainment. Wearing a helmet and armed with a flashlight, you will feel like a real miner.

One day on the territory of the reserve will leave truly indelible impressions in your life that will fuel more for a long time.

How to get to Czech Switzerland from Prague?

So, when you have definitely decided that you want to visit this wonderful place, you should carefully consider the route. It is best to get there from Prague, as there is a significant amount of transport from there. However, there are other options. Let's look at them all.

Route map to Czech Switzerland

The first option is by personal car. Such a trip in the Prague direction will take you about an hour and a half, but from Dresden, a little less - 40-45 minutes. The advantage of this travel option is, of course, the incredibly picturesque pictures along the way. In order to get to Czech Switzerland, when leaving Prague, you need to head towards the city of Teplice, along the E55 highway. Then in the following order: Lovoshtitsy - direction to Usti nad Labem - the city of Decin and Grzensko.

The second option is a train that will take you almost to the city of Decin, where you can change to a bus to Grzensko. As stated above, it is from this point that a huge number of different hiking trails begin. The address of the bus stop is simple - opposite the railway station.

The third option is a steamboat. For romantic couples who love long, slow boat trips, this would be an excellent option. ferry crossing from Decin to also Grzensko.

By the way, we strongly do not recommend resorting to a route during which you will need to change trains in Ústí nad Labem. This is due to the fact that the departure and arrival times of transport here are very different, which means that you may have to wait a long time for the next train.

When you arrive in Czech Switzerland, choose your tourist route very carefully. Remember that some of them are quite heavy and are not suitable for older people, travelers with health problems, and small children are unlikely to be delighted. In addition, not everywhere you can use a bicycle. Plan your time carefully. For example, it will take you a whole day to explore Braná, which is worth walking to. Take this into account and be prepared - take snacks, warm clothes and water. If you decide to also travel to Germany, it will take another day. Be sure to purchase tourist map, without it it’s quite difficult to navigate, and you can miss something truly interesting.

There is in the north-west of the Czech Republic in the Usti region, on the very border with Germany, an amazingly beautiful protected place, which is called nothing less than Czech-Saxon Switzerland. This corner is almost untouched wildlife, a magical protected park that simultaneously covers the territory of two countries - the Czech Republic and Germany.

Many tourists from all over the country and beyond come here every day to enjoy the cleanest air and the wild beauty of the reserve, which is called the Czech Switzerland Park. Interestingly, part of the protected lands that ended up on the territory of neighboring Germany is called Saxon Switzerland.

Why are these places so attractive for those who are tired of civilization?

Czech Switzerland - brief description

It all started many thousands of years ago - it was then that amazingly beautiful canyons, crevices, gorges, sandstone rocks unusual in their shape and structure, as if endowed with a human soul, were formed from volcanic rocks on the lands of the current national park...

Dozens of centuries passed, and by 2000, a national park with an area of ​​80 sq. km appeared on the map of the country of beer and dumplings. - Czech paradise or Czech Switzerland. But long before this, a small urban-type settlement - Grzhensk - became a real tourist center, a berth for everyone who wanted to relax away from noisy cities. The tourist infrastructure here is well developed and, despite its modest size, in this town, always filled with tourists, there is always a place to stay for the night or just have an inexpensive and tasty snack.

Most often, guests come from the capital to admire the protected paradise, and the trip can take only one day. But if you want to have a full and quality rest, it is best to book accommodation in a boarding house or a hotel room for at least 2-3 days, since there is really something to catch the eye of even a very experienced traveler.

Attention! In Grzhensk you can buy cute souvenirs in the form of gnomes and other fairy-tale characters for children or just as a good memory.

Sights of Czech Switzerland

So, you are eager to see with your own eyes what other guests of this magical place are enthusiastically talking about. Then let's together make a list of attractions in the reserve that are simply prohibited by the law of conscience and honor to miss!

Advice! If you want to fully enjoy the bright colors of the luxurious nature of these places, go to Czech Switzerland in the fall, in September or October.

Thanks to numerous signs scattered throughout the protected park, you can choose for your company both more complex, longer, 15-25 km long, and simple routes in Czech Switzerland, 8-12 km long.

Pravcicka Gate

There is a special rock in Czech Switzerland, which is proudly called the symbol of the entire reserve. This is “Pravchitsky brana”, which in Russian sounds like “Pravchitsky gate”. The unique rock is the highest in all of Europe and looks like a monumental sandstone arch created by Mother Nature, 16 meters high and as much as 26 meters long. The width of the rock structure is more than 4 meters

Getting to the Gate will not be difficult - from Grzhensk, where you can leave your car, there is a walking trail about 4 km long. to get closer to the attraction, you will have to pay entrance tickets for 75 CZK and although you are not allowed to climb the Gate, it is worth admiring it up close. Entrance ticket for children costs 25 CZK.

From the grandiose Pravchitsky Gate you can easily reach its smaller copy with a height of only 2 meters - this is the so-called Small Pravchitsky Gate. There is a fairly wide path leading to them, suitable for cycling.

Advice! Do not confuse this trail with the narrow path marked in red on the maps of the area, otherwise you will have to wander through the mountains for about an hour, although in the end you will still be able to reach the Small Pravchitsky Gate.

Schaunstein Castle

Near the Small Gate you can see a sign leading to the rock castle - this is the robber castle of Shunstein, shrouded in secrets. The road to it is quite difficult, about a kilometer long, you will have to climb steep steps and even squeeze through tunnels between the rocks. But, believe me, the views of extraordinary beauty and scale that open from the observation deck of the castle are worth the effort!

Castle "Falcon's Nest"

Very close to the Pravchitsky Gate, right in the rock in 1882, a castle with the romantic name “Falcon's Nest” was built, more reminiscent of a large hunting lodge. It has been surprisingly well preserved to this day, and today within the walls ancient castle– the Clary-Aldringen family estate, you can enjoy dinner in a superbly decorated restaurant overlooking the whole of Bohemian Switzerland. Also in the Falcon's Nest it is worth visiting a museum dedicated to this region.

Mill "Dolsky Mlyn"

This once very popular mill has now turned into ruins, but even today residents of these areas remember how many years ago the fairy tale “The Arrogant Princess” was filmed here. It’s hard to believe that the building, lost in the green forests, was once a very busy place and a crossroads center for several centuries in a row.

Village "Hrzypska"

The colorful authentic village was loved by guests of this region because it was where an ancient glass workshop once functioned, whose glassblowers produced “Bohemian glass” back in the 15th century. It seems incredible, but the workshop still cordially opens its doors to tourists today: here you can intelligently read account books of past centuries, see live how the most famous glass in the Czech Republic is blown, and at the same time buy your favorite glasses, vases or figurines made of crystal or Bohemian glass

Abandoned silver mines

Arranged in Czech Switzerland and very interesting excursions to ancient mines where silver was once mined. You can personally feel like a real miner by putting on a safety helmet and descending into the depths of the mine under the supervision of a guide.

Falkenstein Castle

Those tourists who are not too lazy to climb higher into the mountains will be amazed by the unforgettable spectacle - unusual castle Falkenstein, located right among the rocks. The views from here, especially if you climb higher, are fabulous!

Panska Skala

This geological phenomenon is a huge 12-meter cliff, which was skillfully assembled by nature from polygonal basalt slabs. There is a similar giant in Northern Ireland, however, the Czech stone relative is quite accessible to tourists and is located 500 meters south of highway No. 13, the landmark is the village of Prachen, located 18 km from Decin.

Kamenice Gorge

To visit this picturesque gorge, you need to walk along walking trail, indicated on the map in green, from the village of Mezna to the canyon of the Kamenice river. In these marvelous lands, you will cross a wooden bridge across a 30-meter-long gorge, and then you can go down to the piers, from where gondola excursions along the Dikoe and Quiet gorges are held. If tourists follow the path marked in blue on the map, they will come to the authentic village of Mezni-Luka.

Gorges Wild and Quiet

Let's take a closer look at these gorges. Once on the steep canyon of the Kamenitsa River, travelers find themselves in places where the river is blocked by dams. Between these dams you can raft on a flat-bottomed boat led by a local gondolier. First, guests of the reserve will sail through the Wild Gorge (“Divoka Souteska”), 250 meters long, romantic and calm. But then the Quiet Gorge (“Tikha Souteska”), almost 500 meters long and “decorated” with a picturesque waterfall, the waters of which noisily flow out of the rock, awaits them.

Suha Kamenica

In early spring and autumn months, the canyon of a small stream flowing into the Laba (arm of the Elbe) fills with water and dozens of miniature waterfalls gurgle merrily between the rocks over a scattering of huge boulders. In summer, the waters dry up, and Suha Kamenica is filled with mystery and cozy silence.

Gazebo

It was once possible to reach the spectacular Belvedere observation deck, hanging over the Elbe River canyon, along a perfectly straight road coming from the castle in the town of Binovce. Tourists at the Belvedere are treated to amazing views of the curving river and bizarre sandstone rocks reminiscent of petrified giants.

Ružovsky Vrh

For those who are not afraid of steep climbs, something awaits! In the thickets of the beech forest that densely covers Mount Ružovský Vrh, there are many unique viewing platforms. And although there are no special attractions here, the views are worth the effort spent on climbing.

Wolf board

Having passed along the road through the canyon of the Krinitsa River, called Kiyovske Udoli and known for its unbridled beauty, tourists will come to another attraction. This is a stone slab; in the 17th century, a story was carved on it about a hunter who was able to kill two wolves at once.

From Prague to Czech Switzerland: what tourists need to know

It is worth noting that the excursion from Prague to Czech Switzerland is very popular, since the journey does not take very much time, but the pleasure received is worth it!

The reserve is open to visitors all year round: from April to October you can be on its territory from 10-00 to 18-00, and from November to March - only on weekends from 10-00 to 16-00.

How to get from Prague to Czech Switzerland

Let's consider all the options:

• Public transport: in Prague itself we take the train to the town of Decin. Here we change to shuttle bus No. 434, which will take us to Khrzhensko.
• Own or rented car: we drive along the intercity highway to the town of Decin, then from there we go to Khrzhensko. Here you can leave your car in paid parking lots and continue exploring the reserve on foot.
• Steamboat: first you have to take a train to Decin, from Decin you will need to walk about a kilometer to the pier, and from there, on a steamboat plying along the Labe River (aka Elbe), swim to the final stop, which is also located about 800 meters from Grzhenska.

Where to stay

Despite the fact that Grzhensk is a rather small town, there are no problems with accommodation here.

Relatively affordable hotels are:

• Hotel “Labe”, where bus number 434 stops. The cost of daily accommodation in a room starts from 660 CZK, and in the season (from April to the end of October) - from 730 CZK (breakfast is included in the price). Hotel website: www.labehotel.cz
• Hotel U Lipy offers accommodation in double or triple rooms, which cost 1,100 and 1,650 CZK per night respectively. Hotel website: www.hotelulipy.zaridi.to/lipa.htm

Cost of entrance ticket and excursions

The entrance ticket to the territory of the Czech Switzerland Nature Reserve costs 50 CZK. Excursions are paid separately. For example, the favorite excursion of all tourists - canoeing along the Edmund's Gorge - lasts about 15-20 minutes and costs 80 crowns for adults and half as much for children.

Other excursions vary in price and number of attractions visited. In principle, you can get a map of the territory at the entrance to the reserve and walk around those areas yourself. interesting places that attract you most.

Hello friends. Czech Switzerland. Enough strange name, whatever is hidden behind it, right? And hides behind it Czech nature reserve, located on the border with Germany. On the other side of the border it passes into Saxon Switzerland. But the park is famous not only for its strange name. What else? Now we'll tell you.

It is believed that in the 19th century two Swiss were invited to undertake the restoration. They were very surprised when they discovered sandstone mountains nearby, which strongly reminded them of their native land.

Artists, peering at the rocks of a foreign country, painted Swiss landscapes familiar from childhood.

Thanks to these paintings, the place was called Saxon Switzerland. There is another version: the artists themselves gave the place this name.

Centuries passed and the border between Germany and the Czech Republic passed here. Part great places, remained on the territory of the state of Saxony, and partly on the territory of the Czech Republic.

The Czechs slightly changed the name and Czech Switzerland (České Švýcarsko) appeared. The name stuck.

Since 2000, this area has received the status of a national park.

Bohemian Switzerland National Park- its official name.

Attractions and entertainment of the park

• The symbol of the park can be called the Pravčická brána - this is the largest natural mountain arch in Europe.

It cannot be reached due to the possibility of collapse, but you can admire it from one of several observation platforms.

The most famous of them is called Belvedere. It hangs over the Elbe Canyon.

• Near the Gate there is a hunting castle “Falcon's Nest” or Zámek Sokolí hnízdo.

It was built in the 19th century. Now it houses a museum, as well as a restaurant with original interior decor.

From the large gate you can reach the small one. They are called the Small Pravchitsky Gate.

Near the Small Gate you will see a sign leading to Schaunstein Castle.

• Move on. There you will see the Dolsky Mlin mill.

Now all that remains is mostly ruins.

And next to it is the Ferdinand Gorge, which received its name in honor of Archduke Ferdinand.

Elsewhere in the Czech Republic, the castle of Archduke Ferdinand has been preserved, where everything is still maintained as during the owner’s lifetime, and in the beer hall you can try the “7 Bullets” beer, based on the number of bullets that killed the Archduke and his family. The humor is black and bitter, and many people praise the beer.

• Another attraction of this area is the village of Khrzhensko.

It is famous for the fact that it was on its territory that a glass workshop previously functioned, where Bohemian glass was made since the 15th century.

You can visit it now to get acquainted with the accounting books of those times, see how glass is blown, or even buy something for yourself.

• Another offer for adventure lovers is an excursion to abandoned silver mines.

Here you can go down to find out how the miners worked, or climb higher into the mountains and get acquainted with Falkenstein Castle, located right in the middle of the rocks.

But all that remains of Tolštejn Castle are ruins. But from its walls there is a stunning view of the park.

• Another castle that still impresses with its size is Decin Castle.

It was a military fortress and residence for local aristocrats. European artists and even monarchs often visited here.

• If during the tour you miss the legends, go to the Wolf Board.

This is a stone slab with a story carved on it about a hunter who killed two wolves at once.

The mountains here may be small, but they are still mountains. Here you can go mountaineering, trekking, and rafting.

Unprepared tourists can feel like real rock climbers, although only with special equipment and an instructor.

The entire park is intertwined with many equipped walking paths. They vary in complexity and length.

There are special routes for bicycle fans.

Even though you are in Czech Switzerland, there are gondola excursions here.

They pass along the Kamenitsa River and two gorges: Quiet and Wild.

Another way to test your physical fitness is to walk along the Mouse Hole.

Despite the name, this place has nothing in common with mice. This is a narrow staircase leading to the top of the cliff. It was built on the initiative of Prince Ferdinand Kinski.

This video is longer, but also more beautiful:

Where to Stay in the Bohemian Switzerland National Park

Now many housing options have appeared on the service AirBnb. We have written how to use this service. If you do not find a free hotel room, then look for accommodation through this booking site.

We offer good hotel options in Czech Switzerland

How to get there

The best thing rent a car and do not use trains or buses. Driving around the Czech Republic is pleasant, plus you are not tied to schedules.

• From Prague

To get to this corner of the Czech Republic and explore the romantic ruins among the mountains and mines, you need to get to Děčín, the city closest to the park, from Prague Mosarikov Station.

From Decin it’s another 20-25 minutes by bus to Grzensko. You can also rent a bike there.

You can take a taxi - this is the most beautiful way. You will need to drive along the Elbe riverbed.

Don't be afraid to come here in winter. The waterfalls in the ice are simply amazing, as are all sorts of bizarre rocks, rare plants and other riches of this region, which we have already talked about.

• From Dresden

It's even faster to get there from Dresden. By car on route 172, after the castle, you need to get to the other side near the city of Bad Spandau. When you cross the border and enter the Czech Republic, highway No. 172 will turn into highway No. 62. Drive a couple of kilometers and turn left. Everything, in Czech Switzerland.