Adršpach-Teplice Rocks

Adršpašsko-teplické skály

A spectacular landscape of towering sandstone formations and deep gorges with hiking trails winding through otherworldly terrain, complemented by scenic boat rides through the Teplice Ponds. It's among the most dramatic natural attractions in Bohemia.

Things to do

• Hiking through Main Gorge — Trek through the dramatic Hlavní průchod (Main Gorge) with 80-meter sandstone walls rising on either side, following marked trails past natural formations and stone bridges.
• Boat ride on Teplice Ponds — Glide across the mirror-like waters of the Teplické Skály ponds in a rowboat or guided tour, enjoying reflections of the towering rock formations.
• Visiting Machuv Hrad viewpoint — Climb to this elevated observation area for panoramic views across the entire sandstone labyrinth and surrounding forests.
• Exploring Jedlová Hora trail — Ascend this popular hiking route that winds through pine forests and rocky outcrops with scenic overlooks of the rock formations.
• Rock climbing and via ferrata — Challenge yourself on guided climbing routes and via ferrata paths that scale the sandstone cliffs for experienced adventurers.
• Photography at sunset viewpoints — Capture golden-hour light illuminating the rock formations from designated viewpoints like Tři Koruny or viewing platforms near the ponds.

Food to try

• Trout from local streams — Fresh-caught pstruh (trout) from the region's pristine waters, typically prepared grilled or pan-fried at nearby restaurants.
• Bohemian dark bread with local cheese — Authentic tmavý chlebek paired with oštiepok or parenice cheese at picnic spots or village inns throughout the area.
• Wild mushroom soups — Seasonal houbová polévka made from mushrooms foraged in the surrounding forests, served at mountain lodges and local restaurants.
• Game stew (Zvěřinový guláš) — Hearty wild boar or venison stew popular in regional cuisine, reflecting the area's hunting traditions and forest resources.
• Regional pastries with forest berries — Kolaches and pastries filled with local bilberries and lingonberries, available at bakeries in nearby villages like Teplice nad Metují.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect hiking trail markings — Stick strictly to marked red, blue, and yellow trails as the sandstone formations are fragile and easily damaged; unmarked shortcuts create erosion.
• Visit in shoulder seasons — Spring (May–June) and autumn (September–October) offer fewer crowds and clearer views than peak summer, when Czech and German tourists fill the area.
• Book boat rides in advance during peak times — Teplice Ponds boat availability is limited and fills quickly in July–August, so reserve ahead or arrive early in the day.
• Learn basic Czech trail vocabulary — Understanding simple terms like 'průchod' (passage), 'vrch' (peak), and 'značka' (trail marker) helps navigate independently in this Czech-speaking region.

Nearby

• Broumov — 5 km
• Náchod — 11 km
• Trutnov — 26 km
• Hradec Králové — 41 km