Best Hiking Trails to Viewpoints Near Diana

The Diana Observation Tower is a central hub for local hikers. You can reach the summit by taking a historic funicular. However, walking the forest paths is much more rewarding. The trails are well-marked and offer plenty of shade. You will pass through dense beech and oak forests.

Several paths lead from the town center to the tower. The blue trail is popular for its steady incline. It takes about forty minutes to reach the top. You will find benches along the way for resting. This route is perfect for families and casual walkers.

Once at the top, visit the Diana Observation Tower for free. The views from the gallery are truly spectacular. You can see the entire city and the Krušné Mountains. There is also a butterfly house and a restaurant nearby. These facilities make the summit a great place to linger.

The tower stands at an altitude of 547 meters. It has been a favorite spot since 1914. You can take an elevator or climb 150 stairs. The entrance fee is zero for the tower itself. Enjoy a meal at the terrace restaurant after your hike.

Hiking to the Iconic Deer Jump Lookout

The Deer Jump lookout is the most famous spot in town. It features a bronze statue of a mountain chamois. This statue commemorates the legendary founding of the spa. The hike to this point is relatively short but steep. You can start the climb near the Grandhotel Pupp.

Follow the yellow markers to find the Deer Jump lookout path. The trail consists of winding stone stairs and forest soil. It offers several small clearings with benches. You will get glimpses of the Teplá River valley. The air here is fresh and filled with pine scents.

Legend says a deer jumped from this rock into the springs. King Charles IV discovered the healing waters during that hunt. Today, the spot is a must-visit for photographers. The chamois statue looks over the colorful spa buildings. It is a perfect place for a souvenir photo.

Continue past the statue to find more hidden paths. The trails connect to the Peter the Great lookout. This wooden gazebo offers a quieter atmosphere for reflection. You can see the UNESCO World Heritage architecture from above. The forest paths here are very well maintained.

The Steep Path to Three Crosses Benchmark

The Three Crosses viewpoint offers a different perspective of the city. It is located on the eastern side of the valley. The hike is steeper than the paths to Diana. You should wear sturdy shoes for this trek. The trail starts near the municipal theater area.

Follow the green trail markers up the hillside. The path climbs through a mix of pine and birch trees. You will reach the Three Crosses benchmark after thirty minutes. The crosses were erected in 1640 as a religious monument. They represent the three denominations of the local faith.

This location provides a wide panorama of the spa zone. You can see the Vřídlo colonnade and the Imperial Hotel. The view is especially beautiful during the golden hour. Sunset hikers will find the atmosphere very peaceful here. Bring a flashlight if you stay for the evening.

Near the crosses, you will find the Camera Obscura lookout. This small wooden structure looks like a tiny house. It offers framed views of the city through its windows. It is one of the most romantic spots in Karlovy Vary. Spend some time enjoying the silence of the woods.

Exploring the Goethova Vyhlidka Forest Routes

Goethova Vyhlidka is a stunning Gothic-style lookout tower. It sits on the heights of the Eternal Life hill. The hike to this tower is longer than others. It takes about an hour from the town center. You will walk through deep, quiet forest sections.

The trail is part of the best forest walking routes in the region. It is less crowded than the central park paths. You might spot local wildlife like deer or squirrels. The path is mostly paved or hard-packed gravel. This makes it suitable for Nordic walking.

The tower itself looks like a medieval castle turret. It was built in the late 19th century. Princess Stephanie of Austria suggested its construction here. The tower offers a 360-degree view of the Bohemian landscape. You can see deep into the Slavkov Forest.

There is a cozy cafe located inside the tower base. It is a great spot for coffee and cake. The tower is open seasonally, so check times locally. In 2026, expect updated facilities for international visitors. The surrounding park is perfect for a summer picnic.

Practical Tips for Karlovy Vary Hiking

Hiking in Karlovy Vary requires minimal preparation for most trails. The paths are color-coded with painted markers on trees. Red, blue, yellow, and green signs guide your way. You can find maps at the official tourism office in town. These maps show trail lengths and elevation gains.

Public transport can help you reach higher starting points. Use the local bus system to save your energy. Check the latest schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. Many buses stop near the forest entrances. This is helpful for those with limited mobility.

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip.
• Bring a reusable water bottle for the journey.
• Carry a light jacket even in summer months.
• Download an offline map of the forest trails.

The best time to hike is from May to October. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the forest canopy. Winter trails can be slippery and require extra caution. Most lookouts remain accessible throughout the entire year. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.