Quick Picks for Hiking in Karlovy Vary

If you are short on time, use these quick recommendations to find your perfect walk. The trails here are designed for relaxation rather than intense exercise. You can easily combine a morning hike with an afternoon spa treatment.

• Best Overall: Diana Lookout Tower Path
• Best for Families: St. Linhart Forest Center
• Best for Views: Three Crosses (Tři kříže)
• Best Free Activity: Deer Leap (Jelení skok)

Most trails start directly in the city center. You do not need a car to access these beautiful green spaces. Just follow the colored markers found on trees and signposts throughout the woods.

10 Best Easy Hiking Trails Near Karlovy Vary Center

The following list highlights the most accessible and rewarding paths in the region. Each trail offers unique sights, from historic monuments to rocky outcrops. These are the top-rated routes for 2026.

1. Name: Diana Lookout Tower Trail Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the most famous walk in the city. It leads to a historic brick tower with an elevator. You can also visit the indoor Butterfly House at the top. Best for: First-time visitors Where: Starts behind Grandhotel Pupp Time: 45–60 minutes Cost: Free trail; small fee for the tower elevator Getting there: Walk from the center or take the funicular Tip: Stop at the mini-zoo near the tower to see the local goats and ponies.
2. Name: Deer Leap (Jelení skok) Type: Viewpoint Why go: See the iconic chamois statue that symbolizes the city. The trail is shaded and offers several benches for resting. It provides a classic postcard view of the valley. Best for: Photography lovers Where: Mid-point of the Diana funicular path Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the yellow markers from the Market Colonnade Tip: The path is paved but can be slippery after rain.
3. Name: Three Crosses (Tři kříže) Type: Viewpoint Why go: This trail takes you to the opposite side of the valley. It offers a panoramic view of the entire spa district. It is usually less crowded than the Diana trails. Best for: Avoiding crowds Where: East side of the Teplá River Time: 40 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Start at the funicular station on Slovenská street Tip: Visit at sunset for the most dramatic lighting over the city.
4. Name: St. Linhart Forest Center Type: Nature/Experience Why go: This area features a high ropes course and an expansive deer park. You can walk on elevated wooden walkways to spot wildlife safely. It is a great way to experience the local secrets in Karlovy Vary woods. Best for: Families with children Where: Doubí district Time: 2–3 hours Cost: Free park access; fee for ropes course Getting there: Take bus number 6 from the center Tip: The forest cafe here serves excellent local cakes and coffee.
5. Name: Charles IV Lookout Type: Viewpoint/Historic Why go: This neo-Gothic tower looks like a small castle. It was built in 1887 and offers a 360-degree view of the Ore Mountains. The climb is gentle and very rewarding. Best for: History buffs Where: Southern spa woods Time: 1 hour Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the green trail from the Diana Tower Tip: Check the weather; the tower is best enjoyed on clear days.
6. Name: Westend Architecture Walk Type: Neighborhood/Architecture Why go: This path winds through the historic Westend district. You will see grand villas and the beautiful Orthodox Church of Saint Peter and Paul. It blends urban beauty with forest fringes. Best for: Architecture fans Where: Westend neighborhood Time: 1 hour Cost: Free Getting there: Walk uphill from the Sadová Colonnade Tip: Look for the hidden gems in Karlovy Vary villas along the way.
7. Name: Svatoš Rocks (Svatošské skály) Type: Nature/Day trip Why go: These massive granite rock formations resemble a petrified wedding procession. The trail follows the Ohře River and is completely flat. It is a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Best for: Nature lovers Where: 6km from the center Time: 3–4 hours (round trip) Cost: Free Getting there: Walk or cycle the river path from Doubí Tip: Rent a bike in the center to make this trip faster and easier.
8. Name: Petrova výšina (Peter’s Height) Type: Viewpoint/History Why go: Named after Peter the Great, who reportedly rode a horse up here. It features a bust of the Tsar and a lovely wooden gazebo. The view of the Teplá River is excellent. Best for: Quick scenic breaks Where: Near the Deer Leap statue Time: 20 minutes from Deer Leap Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the red markers from the Deer Leap lookout Tip: This is a perfect spot for a quiet picnic.
9. Name: Goethe’s Lookout Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: This is the highest point in the immediate vicinity. The tower was recently renovated and looks like a fairytale structure. The trail passes through deep, quiet forests. Best for: Quiet reflection Where: Hůrky hill Time: 1.5 hours Cost: Free trail; small fee for tower access Getting there: Take bus number 8 to the Hůrky stop Tip: The trail can be steep in small sections, so wear sturdy shoes.
10. Name: Andělská Hora Castle Ruins Type: Experience/Day trip Why go: These ruins sit on a volcanic rock with stunning views of the countryside. It is one of the most romantic spots near the city. The energy of the place is said to be very positive. Best for: Couples and hikers Where: 10km from the center Time: 2–3 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Take a local bus from the Karlovy Vary railway station Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for the best light on the ruins.

Tips for Navigating Karlovy Vary Spa Woods

The hiking trails in Karlovy Vary are exceptionally well-maintained. The Czech Hiking Markers System uses color-coded stripes (red, blue, green, and yellow). You will see these painted on trees at eye level. Always follow the color of your chosen route to stay on track.

You should consult a map of marked trails in Karlovy Vary spa woods before heading out. While many paths are paved, some can be muddy after a storm. Carrying a light rain jacket is always a good idea in the Bohemian climate. Most trails are safe, but always tell someone your planned route.

Public transport is a great way to reach further trailheads. The local bus system is efficient and affordable. You can find schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. Remember to validate your ticket as soon as you board the bus.