Šumava Travel Guide | Things to Do in Česko

Šumava, located in southwestern Czech Republic along the borders with Germany and Austria, is the country's largest national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This pristine wilderness area encompasses dense forests, glacial lakes, peat bogs, and rolling hills that form part of the ancient Bohemian Massif. The region is often called the 'Green Roof of Europe' due to its extensive forest coverage and serves as a crucial watershed for Central Europe. The area offers exceptional opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife observation, with over 300 kilometers of marked trails winding through virgin forests and past crystal-clear mountain lakes. Šumava is home to rare species including lynx, wolves, and black grouse, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The region also holds significant historical importance, having served as part of the Iron Curtain during the Cold War, with remnants of border fortifications still visible today.

Top Things to Do in Šumava

Hiking the Šumava Ridge Trail

Explore the main ridge trail that runs along the Czech-German border, offering spectacular views of the Bohemian Forest. The trail passes through pristine wilderness areas, ancient spruce forests, and provides access to some of the park's most remote and beautiful locations. This multi-day hiking route is considered one of Europe's finest long-distance trails.

Booking Tip: No booking required for independent hiking, but consider hiring a local guide for 800-1,200 CZK per day for expert knowledge of wildlife and history. Best visited May-October when trails are fully accessible. Look for guides certified by the National Park Authority.

Canoeing on Lipno Lake

Navigate the largest artificial lake in the Czech Republic, surrounded by pristine forests and offering excellent water sports opportunities. The lake provides calm waters perfect for beginners while more experienced paddlers can explore hidden coves and tributaries. Multiple rental facilities along the shoreline offer equipment and guided tours.

Booking Tip: Canoe rentals cost 400-600 CZK per day, with guided tours available for 1,200-1,800 CZK per person. Book in advance during summer months (June-August). Choose operators with safety certifications and included life jackets.

Wildlife Watching in Boubín Primeval Forest

Visit one of Central Europe's last remaining primeval forests, where ancient spruces over 400 years old create a cathedral-like atmosphere. This UNESCO-protected area offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, including chances to spot lynx, deer, and numerous bird species. The forest features a network of wooden walkways and observation platforms.

Booking Tip: Entry is free, but guided wildlife tours cost 600-900 CZK per person and significantly increase animal sighting chances. Early morning tours (6-9 AM) offer best wildlife viewing. Book with certified nature guides through the National Park visitor centers.

Cycling the Iron Curtain Trail

Follow the historic route along the former Iron Curtain border, now transformed into an international cycling trail with excellent infrastructure. The trail combines natural beauty with historical significance, passing former guard towers, border fortifications, and memorials while winding through stunning forest landscapes.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals available for 300-500 CZK per day, with e-bikes costing 600-800 CZK. Multi-day guided tours range from 2,500-4,000 CZK per person. Choose operators offering GPS devices and detailed historical commentary for the full experience.

Exploring Černé and Čertovo Lakes

Discover two of Šumava's most beautiful glacial lakes, formed during the last ice age and surrounded by dramatic cirques and ancient forests. These pristine alpine lakes offer crystal-clear waters and are considered among the most photogenic locations in the Czech Republic. Well-marked trails lead to both lakes with varying difficulty levels.

Booking Tip: Access is free via marked hiking trails (2-4 hours each way). Guided photography tours available for 1,500-2,000 CZK per person, including professional instruction. Visit early morning or late afternoon for best lighting and fewer crowds.

Getting There

The most convenient access to Šumava is by car, with major entry points near Český Krumlov, Klatovy, and Prachatice, all connected by well-maintained highways from Prague (2-3 hours drive). Regular bus services operate from Prague and other major Czech cities to gateway towns like Železná Ruda, Kvilda, and Srní, with journey times ranging from 3-5 hours. The nearest airports are in Prague (150km) and Munich (120km), both offering car rental services for the scenic drive through the Bohemian countryside.

Getting Around

A personal vehicle is highly recommended for exploring Šumava due to the park's vast size and dispersed attractions, with well-maintained roads connecting major viewpoints and trailheads. Public transportation within the park consists of seasonal bus routes connecting major villages and tourist centers, operating primarily during summer months with limited winter service. Many visitors combine cycling with public transport, as regional buses accommodate bicycles, and numerous bike rental shops are available in gateway towns throughout the region.

Where to Stay

Železná Ruda

Kvilda

Srní

Modrava

Borová Lada

Stožec

Food & Dining

Šumava's dining scene focuses on traditional Bohemian cuisine featuring hearty dishes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with local specialties including venison, trout, and wild mushroom preparations served in cozy mountain lodges and family-run restaurants. Most establishments emphasize locally sourced ingredients, including game meats, forest berries, and artisanal cheeses, often paired with excellent Czech beers from regional breweries. Dining options range from simple mountain huts serving goulash and bread dumplings to more refined restaurants in larger towns offering modern interpretations of traditional recipes, with many establishments providing packed lunches for hikers and cyclists.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Šumava is from May through October when all trails are accessible and weather conditions are most favorable for outdoor activities, with July and August offering the warmest temperatures but also the largest crowds. Spring (May-June) brings wildflower blooms and active wildlife, while autumn (September-October) offers spectacular foliage colors and mushroom foraging opportunities with fewer tourists. Winter visits are possible for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts, though many facilities close and weather can be harsh, with heavy snowfall limiting access to higher elevations.

Insider Tips

Purchase the Šumava National Park card for discounts on accommodations, restaurants, and activities throughout the region, available at visitor centers for 200 CZK

Many of the best viewpoints and pristine areas are accessible only by foot or bicycle, so plan for significant walking even if driving to trailheads

Wild mushroom and berry picking is permitted in designated areas with proper permits - ask at visitor centers for current regulations and best locations

Things to Do in Šumava