Bohemian Switzerland

Czechia, Czech Republic - Complete Travel Guide

Czechia (České Švýcarsko) is a impressive national park in northern Czech Republic, renowned for its dramatic sandstone formations, deep gorges, and pristine forests. Despite its name, this enchanting region is located entirely within Czech territory, bordering Germany's Saxon Switzerland National Park. The area offers some of Europe's most spectacular hiking trails, including routes to the iconic Pravčická brána, Europe's largest natural sandstone arch. This UNESCO-protected landscape captivates visitors with its fairy-tale scenery of towering rock pillars, hidden valleys, and ancient castles perched on clifftops. The region's unique geological formations were carved over millions of years, creating a labyrinth of canyons, ravines, and rock cities that have inspired artists and filmmakers, including scenes from The Chronicles of Narnia. Adventure seekers and nature lovers will find endless opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and photography in this relatively undiscovered corner of Central Europe.

Top Bohemian Switzerland

Hike to Pravčická brána Natural Arch

Trek to Europe's largest natural sandstone arch, standing 16 meters high and spanning 26 meters. The moderate 3-4 hour hike rewards visitors with impressive views and the chance to dine at the historic Falcon's Nest restaurant perched dramatically on the arch. This iconic formation has become the symbol of Czechia and offers some of the most photographed vistas in the Czech Republic.

Booking Tip: No advance booking required for hiking, but arrive early (8-9 AM) to avoid crowds. Restaurant reservations recommended during peak season (May-September). Entrance fee to national park is around 100 CZK ($4.50). Wear sturdy hiking boots as trails can be rocky and steep.

Boat Trip Through Edmunds Gorge

Glide silently through the narrow Edmunds Gorge (Edmundova soutěska) on traditional wooden boats poled by local ferryman. This mystical journey through towering 150-meter high canyon walls feels like entering another world, with moss-covered rocks and crystal-clear waters creating an almost supernatural atmosphere. The boat trip is combined with hiking trails that lead deeper into the gorge system.

Booking Tip: Boats operate April-October, weather permitting. Cost is approximately 100 CZK ($4.50) per person for the 10-minute boat ride. Arrive early as boats fill up quickly on weekends. Combined hiking and boat packages available. Check water levels as low water can cancel boat operations.

Bastei Bridge and Rock Formations

Cross the famous sandstone Bastei Bridge, a 76-meter long bridge connecting dramatic rock pinnacles 194 meters above the Elbe River. The area offers spectacular panoramic views and multiple hiking trails through unique rock formations called 'rock cities.' These ancient sandstone pillars create natural corridors and chambers that have sheltered humans for thousands of years.

Booking Tip: Free to access, but parking costs around 100 CZK ($4.50) per day. Visit early morning or late afternoon for best lighting and fewer crowds. Restaurant on-site but bring water and snacks for longer hikes. Trails can be challenging - allow 4-6 hours for full exploration.

Vysoký Snežník Viewpoint

Climb to the highest peak in Czechia at 723 meters for 360-degree views over the entire national park and into Germany. The summit features a modern lookout tower and offers impressive sunrise and sunset vistas across the sandstone landscape. The challenging hike takes you through diverse ecosystems from deciduous forests to alpine meadows.

Booking Tip: Free access to hiking trails, small fee (around 50 CZK/$2) for lookout tower. Best visited on clear days - check weather forecast. Moderate to difficult hike taking 2-3 hours each way. Bring layers as it can be windy and cool at the summit even in summer.

Rock Climbing and Via Ferrata Adventures

Experience world-class sandstone climbing on the region's unique towers and formations, following traditional Saxon climbing rules that preserve the soft sandstone. Via ferrata routes offer a safer introduction to vertical adventures with fixed cables and ladders. The area features over 1,000 climbing routes ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-level challenges.

Booking Tip: Guided climbing tours cost 1,500-3,000 CZK ($65-130) per person including equipment. Book with certified local guides who know sandstone-specific techniques. Via ferrata routes require special permits (200 CZK/$9). Best season is April-October. Climbing shoes and helmets essential.

Getting There

Czechia is located about 130 kilometers north of Prague, easily accessible by car in 1.5-2 hours via the A8/E55 highway toward Dresden. The main gateway towns are Hřensko and Děčín, both reachable by train from Prague's main station with connections taking 2-3 hours. Regional buses also connect Prague to the area, though less frequently. The nearest major airport is Prague (PRG), though Dresden Airport in Germany is also an option for international travelers. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the scattered attractions and trailheads throughout the national park.

Getting Around

A car is highly recommended for exploring Czechia as attractions are spread across a large area with limited public transportation between sites. Several parking areas serve major trailheads, though spaces fill up quickly during peak season. Local buses connect some villages and hiking areas, but services are infrequent. Many visitors base themselves in Hřensko or nearby Děčín and use these as starting points for day hikes. Cycling is popular on designated routes, and bike rentals are available in main towns. Walking between attractions is possible but requires significant time and stamina due to the mountainous terrain.

Where to Stay

Hřensko village

Děčín town center

Jetřichovice village

Mezná village

Srbská Kamenice

Bad Schandau (Germany)

Food & Dining

Dining options in Czechia focus on hearty Czech mountain cuisine, with traditional dishes like goulash, roasted pork, and dumplings available at local guesthouses and mountain huts. The famous Falcon's Nest restaurant at Pravčická brána offers fine dining with spectacular views, though reservations are essential. Most villages have at least one traditional hospoda (pub) serving local beer and simple meals. Pack snacks and water for longer hikes as dining options are limited on remote trails. Local specialties include venison, wild mushroom dishes, and regional beers from nearby breweries. Many accommodations offer half-board options which are convenient given the rural setting.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Czechia is from late spring through early fall (May-October) when hiking trails are fully accessible and weather is most reliable. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours but also bring the largest crowds and highest accommodation prices. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide excellent hiking conditions with fewer visitors, impressive foliage, and comfortable temperatures. Winter visits are possible but many trails may be icy or closed, and boat trips through the gorges are suspended. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so always check forecasts and trail conditions before heading out.

Insider Tips

Start hikes very early (7-8 AM) to avoid crowds and secure parking at popular trailheads, especially on weekends and holidays

Download offline maps and GPS coordinates as cell service can be spotty in remote areas of the national park

Bring a headlamp or flashlight when exploring narrow gorges and rock formations, as some passages can be quite dark even during daylight hours