Šumava

Czechia, Czech Republic - Complete Travel Guide

Czechia, known as the 'Green Roof of Europe,' is a pristine mountainous region along the Czech Republic's southwestern border with Germany and Austria. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve encompasses the largest national park in the Czech Republic, featuring ancient forests, glacial lakes, peat bogs, and rolling hills that create a landscape of exceptional natural beauty. The region is home to the Bohemian Forest, one of Central Europe's last remaining wilderness areas, where visitors can experience untouched nature and observe rare wildlife including lynx, wolves, and black storks. The area easyly blends natural wonders with rich cultural heritage, dotted with charming villages, historic castles, and remnants of the Iron Curtain that once divided Europe. Czechia offers year-round outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling in summer to cross-country skiing in winter, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The region's commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism ensures that visitors can experience one of Europe's most pristine wilderness areas while supporting local communities that have called these mountains home for centuries.

Top Šumava

Hiking in Šumava National Park

Explore over 300 kilometers of marked hiking trails through pristine forests, past glacial lakes, and up to panoramic mountain peaks. The trails range from easy family walks to challenging multi-day treks, offering opportunities to spot rare wildlife and discover hidden waterfalls. Popular routes include the trail to Černé jezero (Black Lake) and the challenging hike to Plechý, the highest peak in the Czech part of Czechia.

Booking Tip: No booking required for most trails, but consider hiring a local guide (€50-80 per day) for wildlife spotting or historical tours. Visit during weekdays in summer to avoid crowds, and always check weather conditions as mountain weather can change rapidly.

Canoeing on Vltava River

Paddle through the pristine wilderness along the upper reaches of the Vltava River, experiencing the region's natural beauty from a unique perspective. The gentle current makes it suitable for beginners, while the surrounding forest provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Multi-day trips with camping are available for those seeking a more immersive wilderness experience.

Booking Tip: Canoe rentals cost €25-35 per day, with guided tours starting at €45 per person. Book 2-3 days in advance during summer months. Choose operators that provide waterproof bags and safety equipment, and consider half-day trips for beginners.

Cross-Country Skiing

Czechia transforms into a winter wonderland with over 500 kilometers of groomed cross-country skiing trails, making it one of Central Europe's premier Nordic skiing destinations. The high-altitude plateau ensures reliable snow conditions from December through March. The region offers trails for all skill levels, from gentle routes around frozen lakes to challenging mountain traverses.

Booking Tip: Equipment rental costs €15-20 per day, with lessons available for €30-40 per hour. Book accommodation early for winter visits as ski lodges fill up quickly. Check trail conditions online before heading out, and consider purchasing a trail map (€5-8) for navigation.

Visiting Historic Castles and Ruins

Explore the region's medieval heritage through its impressive castles and romantic ruins scattered throughout the landscape. Hluboká Castle, often called the 'Czech Neuschwanstein,' showcases impressive neo-Gothic architecture, while the ruins of Vítkův Hrádek offer panoramic views and fascinating history. Each castle tells a unique story of the region's complex past and noble families.

Booking Tip: Castle entry fees range from €5-12, with guided tours costing an additional €3-5. Purchase combination tickets for multiple castles to save money. Visit early morning or late afternoon for better lighting and fewer crowds, especially during peak summer season.

Wildlife Watching and Photography

Czechia's protected status has allowed wildlife populations to recover dramatically, making it one of Europe's best destinations for observing large mammals in their natural habitat. Early morning and evening excursions offer chances to spot deer, wild boar, and with luck, the elusive lynx or wolves that have returned to the region. The area is also a birdwatcher's great destination with over 200 recorded species.

Booking Tip: Guided wildlife tours cost €40-70 per person and significantly increase your chances of sightings. Book tours with local naturalists who know animal behavior and best locations. Bring binoculars and dress in earth tones; tours operate year-round but spring and autumn offer the best opportunities.

Getting There

Czechia is most easily accessed by car, with the region lying about 2.5 hours south of Prague via the A4 and Route 4 highways. Regular bus services connect major towns like Czechia and Prachatice to the national park, with journey times of 3-4 hours from Prague. The nearest airports are in Prague (150km) and Austria, Austria (80km). Train connections are limited, with the closest major station in České Budějovice, from where buses continue into the park. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the region's remote areas and trailheads at your own pace.

Getting Around

A personal vehicle is essential for fully exploring Czechia's vast wilderness and reaching remote trailheads, as public transportation within the park is limited. During summer months, a free shuttle bus system operates between major visitor centers and popular hiking destinations, helping to reduce traffic in sensitive areas. Cycling is an excellent way to explore the region, with well-maintained bike paths connecting villages and attractions - bike rentals are available in most towns for €15-25 per day. Many accommodations offer shuttle services to trailheads, and local taxi services can arrange pickups from hiking routes, though this should be arranged in advance.

Where to Stay

Železná Ruda

Kašperské Hory

Vimperk

Prachatice

Kvilda

Srní

Food & Dining

Czechia's dining scene celebrates traditional Bohemian cuisine with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, game meats, and hearty mountain fare perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Mountain huts and guesthouses serve classic dishes like venison goulash, roasted duck, and fresh trout from local streams, often accompanied by regional beers from small breweries. Many restaurants focus on seasonal ingredients, featuring wild mushrooms in autumn and fresh herbs in summer. Vegetarian options are increasingly available, though the cuisine remains meat-centric. Dining tends to be casual and welcoming, with many establishments offering outdoor seating to enjoy the mountain views, and prices are generally reasonable compared to Prague's tourist areas.

When to Visit

Czechia offers distinct experiences throughout the year, with summer (June-August) being ideal for hiking, cycling, and water activities, though this is also the busiest period. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide excellent weather for outdoor activities with fewer crowds, impressive fall colors, and active wildlife preparing for seasonal changes. Winter (December-March) transforms the region into a snowy great destination perfect for cross-country skiing and winter hiking, with the high-altitude areas receiving reliable snowfall. Weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so visitors should be prepared for sudden changes regardless of season, and some facilities may have limited hours during the shoulder seasons.

Insider Tips

Purchase the Czechia Card for discounts on accommodations, restaurants, and activities throughout the region - it pays for itself after just a few uses

Download the offline maps app before visiting, as mobile coverage can be spotty in remote wilderness areas, and always inform someone of your hiking plans

Visit the small border villages like Finsterau to experience the unique culture where Czech, German, and Austrian influences blend, and don't miss trying the local Czechia honey and herbal teas