Planning Your Cycling from Karlovy Vary to Loket Route

Before you start, you need to find a good bike. Several shops in the city center offer mountain bikes and e-bikes for rent. Most rentals include a helmet and a basic repair kit. You can check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for a list of certified rental partners. The trail is part of the larger Ohře Trail (Cyklostezka Ohře), marked with yellow signs.

The route is very easy to follow. It begins near the Doubí district and stays close to the water. In 2026, expect well-maintained paths and clear signage. Most people finish the ride in about one hour. However, you should allow more time for photos and snacks. If you are looking for other ideas, see these best excursions from Karlovy Vary for your itinerary.

9 Top Stops on the Cycling from Karlovy Vary to Loket Route

Here are the best places to stop during your journey. This list includes natural wonders, local food, and historic landmarks. Each stop adds something special to your day trip.

• Best overall: Svatoš Rocks
• Best for families: Doubí Playground
• Best rainy-day: Loket Castle Museum
• Best free: Ohře River Viewpoints

1. Name: Doubí District Type: neighborhood Why go: This is the official starting point of the forest trail. It transitions from city streets to quiet nature. Best for: getting organized. Where: Southern edge of Karlovy Vary. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: free. Getting there: Cycle south from the city center following the river. Tip: Buy extra water here as shops are scarce on the trail.
2. Name: Tašovice Archeological Site Type: sight Why go: See where ancient settlements once stood above the river. It offers a quick history lesson in a forest setting. Best for: history buffs. Where: High bank above the Ohře River. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: free. Getting there: Follow the marked trail markers near Tašovice. Tip: The climb is short but provides a great view of the valley.
3. Name: Svatoš Rocks (Svatošské skály) Type: nature Why go: These massive granite pillars look like a petrified wedding procession. They are the most famous landmark on the route. Best for: photography and nature lovers. Where: Mid-way between Karlovy Vary and Loket. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: free. Getting there: The main cycling path leads directly to the base of the rocks. Tip: Cross the hanging bridge for the best photo angles.
4. Name: Jan Svatoš Restaurant Type: experience Why go: Enjoy a traditional Czech meal right next to the river. It is a popular resting spot for cyclists and hikers. Best for: lunch or a quick beer. Where: Directly opposite Svatoš Rocks. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: moderate. Getting there: Located on the main cycling path. Tip: Try the local trout if it is on the seasonal menu.
5. Name: Loket Suspension Bridge Type: viewpoint Why go: This narrow bridge offers a thrilling view of the rushing water. It signals that you are entering the final stretch to Loket. Best for: a quick thrill. Where: Just before the town of Loket. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: free. Getting there: The path crosses the river here to enter the town. Tip: Walk your bike across if it is crowded with pedestrians.
6. Name: Loket Castle (Hrad Loket) Type: iconic sight Why go: This 12th-century fortress sits on a massive rock. It is the highlight of the entire trip. Best for: everyone. Where: The center of Loket town. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: check Loket Castle entrance fee. Getting there: Follow the path up the hill into the town square. Tip: Visit the torture chamber exhibit for a spooky experience.
7. Name: Svatý Florian Brewery Type: local experience Why go: Taste craft beer brewed inside a historic building. They have a unique collection of porcelain cups too. Best for: relaxing after the ride. Where: Loket town square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: moderate. Getting there: A short walk from the castle gates. Tip: Their dark lager is highly recommended by locals.
8. Name: Loket Old Town Square Type: neighborhood Why go: The square is surrounded by colorful baroque houses. It feels like stepping back in time. Best for: wandering and souvenir shopping. Where: Heart of Loket. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: free. Getting there: The main road from the river leads straight here. Tip: Look for the monument dedicated to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
9. Name: Ohře River Rafting Center Type: activity Why go: See the river from a different perspective. You can rent a canoe for a short trip if you have energy left. Best for: adventure seekers. Where: Riverbank near the Loket bridge. Time: 1 hour. Cost: moderate. Getting there: Follow signs for water sports near the town entrance. Tip: Check the water levels before booking a boat in late summer.

Essential Tips for Your Karlovy Vary Bike Trip

Safety is important when cycling in a new country. Always wear a helmet and stay on the right side of the path. The trail is shared with walkers and dogs. Please use your bell when passing others. If you are tired, you can learn how to get to Loket from Karlovy Vary by train for the return leg.

Trains run frequently between Loket and the Karlovy Vary railway station. Most trains have a special car for bicycles. You will need to buy a small extra ticket for your bike. This makes the trip much easier if you want to spend more time at the castle. Check the Visit Czechia website for more regional travel tips.