What is the SOOS Nature Reserve?

The SOOS Nature Reserve is a national natural monument with a deep history. It sits on the bed of a dried-up prehistoric lake. Over thousands of years, mineral salts and plant remains created a unique environment. The ground here is often white or yellow from crystallized minerals.

The most famous features are the mofettes, often called mud volcanoes. These are not true volcanoes but vents for escaping carbon dioxide. The gas bubbles up through the mud and water, creating a rhythmic plopping sound. It is a fascinating geological process that you can see up close.

This area is also important for biodiversity. You can find carnivorous plants and salt-loving vegetation here. The reserve provides a glimpse into the earth's ancient past. It is a protected site that requires visitors to stay on the designated paths.

Top 12 Highlights of the SOOS Nature Reserve Guide

To make the most of your visit, follow this curated list of highlights. These items include sights within the park and excellent places to visit near Karlovy Vary that complement your trip.

• Best overall: The Mofettes
• Best for families: Prehistoric Life Exhibition
• Best rainy-day: Museum of Geology
• Best free: Nearby Cheb Market Square

1. Name: The Mofettes Type: sight Why go: Witness the "bubbling mud" caused by escaping CO2 gas. It is the park's most iconic feature. Best for: Photographers and science fans. Where: Main boardwalk loop. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: Listen closely for the unique sounds of the escaping gas.
2. Name: Educational Nature Trail Type: activity Why go: This 1.2-kilometer wooden boardwalk keeps you safe and dry above the swampy ground. Best for: Casual hikers. Where: Starts at the main entrance. Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: The trail is flat and accessible for strollers.
3. Name: Císařský Spring Type: sight Why go: A cold mineral spring that is rich in iron and minerals. It has a distinct reddish color. Best for: Wellness enthusiasts. Where: Along the nature trail. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Do not drink large amounts without checking local health advice.
4. Name: Museum of Geology and Paleontology Type: museum Why go: Learn about the formation of the Eger Rift and see local fossils. Best for: Education. Where: Near the parking lot. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: Great place to hide if a sudden rain shower hits.
5. Name: Rescue Station for Injured Animals Type: experience Why go: See local wildlife like owls and birds of prey being rehabilitated. Best for: Families and animal lovers. Where: Entrance area. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: Donations are welcome to help support the animals.
6. Name: Prehistoric Life Exhibition Type: museum Why go: Features life-sized models of dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures. Best for: Children. Where: Adjacent to the main museum. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: The models make for great family photos.
7. Name: Narrow-Gauge Railway Type: experience Why go: A historic mining train that occasionally offers rides for visitors. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the museum complex. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Small extra fee. Tip: Check the schedule in advance as it only runs on specific days.
8. Name: Františkovy Lázně Type: day trip Why go: A beautiful imperial spa town located just a few kilometers away. Best for: Relaxation. Where: 10-minute drive from SOOS. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free to walk around. Tip: Check out these Františkovy Lázně tourist attractions after your hike.
9. Name: Cheb Historic Center Type: day trip Why go: Visit the famous "Špalíček" half-timbered houses and the medieval castle. Best for: History lovers. Where: 15-minute drive from SOOS. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Castle entry fee applies. Tip: There are many great things to do in Cheb for foodies.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A stunning 12th-century Gothic castle perched on a rock above the Ohře River. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: 30-minute drive. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approx. 150-200 CZK. Tip: Plan your Loket Castle day trip for early morning to avoid crowds.
11. Name: Seeberg Castle Type: sight Why go: An intimate medieval castle with ethnographic displays and a nice restaurant. Best for: Couples. Where: Village of Ostroh. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Tip: The castle is very close to SOOS and often less crowded.
12. Name: Bečov nad Teplou Type: day trip Why go: Home to the Reliquary of Saint Maurus, one of the most valuable items in the country. Best for: Culture. Where: 40-minute drive. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Tours are required for the reliquary. Tip: Use this Bečov nad Teplou castle guide to book your tickets.

Practical Tips for Your SOOS Visit

Visiting SOOS requires a little bit of planning to ensure a smooth trip. The reserve is open from spring through late autumn. It is usually closed during the deep winter months for safety. Check the official tourism site for exact seasonal dates.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, even though the path is mostly flat. The air can smell slightly of sulfur near the mofettes. This is completely natural and safe, but it might surprise first-time visitors. Bring water and sunscreen, as parts of the boardwalk have little shade.

If you are coming by train, the nearest station is Nový Drahov. You can check schedules on the Karlovy Vary railway station official site. Parking is available on-site for those traveling by car. Most visitors spend about two hours exploring the reserve itself.