Bohemian Switzerland National Park

Národní park České Švýcarsko

The Czech Republic's newest national park combining dramatic sandstone formations with deep forests and the stunning Edmundova Gorge and Pravčická Gate. It's essential for hikers and nature lovers seeking world-class scenic beauty and outdoor adventure.

Things to do

• Hike to Pravčická Gate — Trek to Central Europe's largest natural sandstone arch, a 16-meter-high formation offering panoramic views of the surrounding tableland landscape.
• Explore Edmundova Gorge — Walk through this dramatic sandstone canyon with towering 100-meter cliffs, featuring wooden pathways and bridges carved into the rock face.
• Visit Kamenice River Gorge — Boat through a scenic narrow gorge with boat tours departing from Hřensko, showcasing sheer red sandstone walls and pristine forest.
• Mountain Biking on Forest Trails — Ride across well-marked cycling routes through beech and fir forests with varying difficulty levels suitable for all abilities.
• Rock Climbing at Sandstone Cliffs — Scale the region's famous red sandstone formations with numerous climbing routes ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty.
• Visit Tisá Viewpoint — Ascend to this elevated observation point offering sweeping vistas across the park's sandstone plateaus and forested valleys.
• Kayaking on Elbe River — Paddle through dramatic gorges along the Elbe River on the park's border, passing beneath towering cliffs and through pristine nature.

Food to try

• Trdelník — A sweet spiral pastry filled with walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon, traditionally made fresh at local stalls and best eaten warm.
• Czech Goulash with Dark Bread — A hearty beef stew seasoned with caraway and paprika, served in village restaurants with thick slices of dark rye bread for soaking up the sauce.
• Smoked Trout from Local Streams — Freshwater trout caught from the park's clean rivers and traditionally smoked, served at riverside restaurants in nearby Hřensko.
• Kolaches — Traditional Czech pastries with fruit or cheese filling, commonly found in local bakeries and perfect as hiking snacks.
• Svíčková — Marinated beef sirloin served with a creamy sauce made from root vegetables and topped with lingonberry jam and whipped cream.
• Local Honey and Berry Products — Blueberries, lingonberries, and forest honey from surrounding producers sold at village markets, reflecting the region's rich foraging tradition.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Trail Markers and Park Rules — The park enforces strict conservation policies; stay on marked trails, take all waste with you, and avoid picking plants or mushrooms without local permission.
• Learn Basic Czech Phrases — While young people speak English, rural villages and smaller establishments appreciate visitors attempting Czech greetings like 'Dobrý den' (good day).
• Plan for Mountain Weather Changes — Northwestern Bohemia experiences rapid weather shifts in forested valleys; bring waterproof gear even on sunny days and check forecasts before hiking.
• Visit Local Mountain Villages for Authenticity — Towns like Krásná Lípa and Rumburk preserve traditional Bohemian architecture and offer genuine hospitality distinct from tourist-focused areas.

Nearby

• České Švýcarsko — 5 km
• Děčín — 13 km
• Ústí nad Labem — 31 km
• Litoměřice — 41 km