Quick Picks for Bohemian Paradise Hiking

Are you planning a quick trip from Prague? Bohemian Paradise offers many diverse trails. Some routes are perfect for families with children. Others provide a challenge for experienced hikers. Here are our top recommendations for different types of travelers.

• Best Overall: Prachov Rocks for iconic scenery.
• Best for Families: Besedice Rocks for fun labyrinths.
• Best Rainy Day: Turnov Regional Museum for local history.
• Best Free Option: Borek Rocks for quiet forest paths.

Each of these spots offers a unique look at the Czech landscape. You will find well-marked paths throughout the region. Most trails are accessible within a 90-minute drive from the capital. Prepare for a full day of exploration and fresh air.

11 Best Bohemian Paradise Hiking Routes

This list highlights the most impressive spots in the region. These locations offer a mix of nature and history. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes for the uneven terrain. Most of these sites have small entry fees during the main season.

1. Name: Prachov Rocks (Prachovské skály) Type: Sight Why go: This is the most famous rock city in the region. You will walk through narrow stone gaps and climb steep stairs. Best for: Photographers and first-time visitors. Where: Near the town of Jičín. Time: 2 to 3 hours. Cost: Approximately 120 CZK for adults. Getting there: Take a bus from Prague to Jičín, then a local shuttle. Tip: Visit the Prachov Rocks hiking trails early to avoid the midday crowds.
2. Name: Hrubá Skála Rock City Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers some of the best viewpoints in Bohemian Paradise. You can see the castle perched on top of the rocks. Best for: Scenic panoramas and easy walks. Where: Between Turnov and Hrubá Skála. Time: 3 to 4 hours. Cost: Free to walk the trails; fee for castle courtyard. Getting there: Train to Hrubá Skála station. Tip: The "Adam’s Bed" rock formation is a must-see along this path.
3. Name: Trosky Castle Type: Experience Why go: The twin towers of Baba and Panna are symbols of the region. They sit on volcanic plugs visible from miles away. Best for: Iconic landmarks and history. Where: Near Rovensko pod Troskami. Time: 1 hour for the castle visit. Cost: Around 140 CZK for entry. Getting there: Train to Borek pod Troskami, then hike uphill. Tip: Climb both towers for a 360-degree view of the countryside.
4. Name: Kost Castle Type: Experience Why go: This is one of the best castles near Prague. It is a well-preserved Gothic fortress hidden in a valley. Best for: History buffs and families. Where: Plakánek Valley. Time: 2 hours for a tour. Cost: Varies by tour type, usually 150-200 CZK. Getting there: Best reached by car or seasonal tourist bus. Tip: Check the schedule for medieval festivals held in the courtyard.
5. Name: Drábské světničky Type: Viewpoint Why go: These are ruins of a cliff-side fortress carved into the rocks. The wooden walkways offer thrilling views over the edge. Best for: Adventurous hikers. Where: Near Mnichovo Hradiště. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free access. Getting there: Train to Mnichovo Hradiště and a long hike or car to Dneboh. Tip: The stairs are very steep, so be careful in wet weather.
6. Name: Besedice Rocks (Besedické skály) Type: Nature Why go: This area features a rock labyrinth called Kalich-Chléviště. It was a hiding place for Protestants during the 17th century. Best for: Families with active children. Where: Near Malá Skála. Time: 2 to 3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Train to Malá Skála, then follow the yellow trail. Tip: Look for the small altar carved directly into the stone.
7. Name: Valdštejn Castle Type: Sight Why go: It is the oldest castle in Bohemian Paradise. It features a beautiful stone bridge with baroque statues. Best for: Romantic walks and architecture. Where: Near Turnov. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Entry fee for the interior. Getting there: A pleasant walk from Turnov or Hrubá Skála. Tip: The castle chapel has excellent acoustics for concerts.
8. Name: Malá Skála and Vranov-Pantheon Type: Experience Why go: This rock castle is built on a narrow ridge above the Jizera River. It is the largest rock castle in the country. Best for: River views and unique ruins. Where: Malá Skála village. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the Pantheon. Getting there: Direct train from Prague to Malá Skála. Tip: Rent a scooter in the village for a fun ride back from nearby Dolánky.
9. Name: Borek Rocks (Borecké skály) Type: Nature Why go: This is a quieter alternative to Prachov. It offers lovely views of Trosky Castle through the pine trees. Best for: Avoiding crowds and quiet reflection. Where: Near Borek pod Troskami. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Train to Borek pod Troskami. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best light on Trosky Castle.
10. Name: Plakánek Valley Type: Nature Why go: A peaceful valley walk that leads directly to Kost Castle. It features wetlands, ponds, and high rock walls. Best for: Easy, flat hiking. Where: Starts near Vesec u Sobotky. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Car is easiest; park in Vesec or near Kost. Tip: Vesec is a preserved village often used in Czech films.
11. Name: Turnov Museum of Bohemian Paradise Type: Experience Why go: If the weather turns bad, this museum is excellent. It focuses on the region's history of gemstone cutting. Best for: Rainy days and learning. Where: Turnov town center. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approximately 100 CZK. Getting there: Central Turnov, reachable by train or bus. Tip: Don't miss the massive panoramic painting of the Saxon invasion.

Essential Tips for Bohemian Paradise Hiking

Planning a trip for Bohemian Paradise hiking requires some preparation. Most trails use a color-coded marking system. Red trails are usually long-distance paths. Blue and green trails are local routes. Yellow paths often connect larger trails or lead to specific viewpoints. You should download an offline map app like Mapy.cz for the best accuracy.

Using public transport is a great way to explore. You can find many day trips from Prague by train that head to Turnov. Turnov is the main gateway to the region. From there, local buses can take you to specific trailheads. Always check the return schedule, as evening buses can be infrequent.

For more information on the country, visit the official Visit Czechia website. They provide updates on trail closures or special events. Pack a reusable water bottle and some snacks. While there are pubs in the villages, remote trails may not have facilities. Remember to carry some cash in Czech Koruna for small entry fees.

Best Seasons for Hiking in Cesky Raj

The best time for hiking is from May to September. During these months, all castles and rock cities are open. However, July and August can be very busy with local tourists. If you prefer quiet trails, consider visiting in May or June. The spring wildflowers add a beautiful touch to the forest floor.

Autumn is another fantastic season for a visit. The beech forests turn bright orange and yellow in October. The air is crisp, which is perfect for long walks. Many photographers visit during this time for the misty morning views. Be aware that some castles may only open on weekends in October.

Winter offers a different kind of magic. The rock formations look stunning when covered in snow. However, some steep stairs can be slippery and dangerous. Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Most indoor attractions like castle interiors will be closed during the winter months.