Why Choose Bohemian Switzerland for Hiking?

The park is famous for its unique Elbe Sandstone Mountains. These formations created natural towers and bridges over millions of years. It is a dream destination for photographers and nature lovers alike. You might recognize the scenery from the Chronicles of Narnia films. The park is a great alternative to other spots like Bohemian Paradise.

Hiking here is very accessible for international visitors. The trails are well-marked with a color-coded system. You can easily combine a visit with a trip to Dresden in Germany. The air is fresh and the views are expansive. It provides a perfect escape from the busy streets of Prague.

The park also shares a border with Saxon Switzerland in Germany. This means you can cross between two countries on foot. Many trails offer historical sites like ruined rock castles. You will also find cozy local pubs in the small villages nearby. It is truly a world-class hiking destination in the heart of Europe.

10 Best Bohemian Switzerland National Park Hiking Spots

Plan your journey with these top-rated locations. Each spot offers a unique perspective on the park's beauty. Here are our top picks for your next adventure.

• Best overall: Pravčická brána
• Best for families: Tiské stěny
• Best viewpoint: Mariina vyhlídka
• Best for history: Šaunštejn Castle

1. Name: Pravčická brána Type: sight Why go: This is the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. It is the iconic symbol of the park. Best for: Iconic photos and grand views. Where: Near Hřensko. Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the viewpoint area. Getting there: Follow the hiking route from Hrensko. Tip: Visit the Falcon’s Nest gallery located right next to the arch.
2. Name: Edmund’s Gorge Type: experience Why go: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride between towering canyon walls. It is a very relaxing break from uphill climbing. Best for: Families and slow-paced travelers. Where: Hřensko. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate fee for the boat ride. Getting there: Walk the yellow trail from Hřensko village. Tip: Check local updates as the gorge sometimes closes for maintenance.
3. Name: Tiské stěny (Tisa Walls) Type: activity Why go: Explore a massive labyrinth of sandstone pillars. It feels like a natural city made of rock. Best for: Fans of Narnia and curious explorers. Where: Tisá village. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Low entry fee. Getting there: Take a bus from Děčín to Tisá. Tip: The "Small Pillars" loop is often less crowded than the main path.
4. Name: Mariina vyhlídka (Mary's Lookout) Type: viewpoint Why go: A wooden hut perched on a sharp rock spire. It offers a 360-degree view of the forest. Best for: Sunrise and sunset lovers. Where: Jetřichovice. Time: 2 hours round trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the red trail from the center of Jetřichovice. Tip: The climb is steep with many stairs, so wear sturdy boots.
5. Name: Bastei Bridge Type: day trip Why go: This famous stone bridge is technically in Germany. However, it is very close and often included in park tours. Best for: Architecture and river views. Where: Saxon Switzerland (Germany). Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free to walk the bridge. Getting there: Short drive or train ride across the border. Tip: Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid the heavy tour bus crowds.
6. Name: Dolský mlýn (Dolský Mill) Type: sight Why go: See the ruins of an 18th-century mill in a deep valley. It is a very romantic and atmospheric spot. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Near Jetřichovice. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike the green or blue trail from Jetřichovice. Tip: Bring a picnic as there are no shops near the ruins.
7. Name: Šaunštejn Castle (Robber's Castle) Type: sight Why go: A former fortress built high on top of rock blocks. You must climb narrow ladders to reach the top. Best for: Adventurous hikers and thrill-seekers. Where: Near Vysoká Lípa. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the red trail from Vysoká Lípa. Tip: Do not attempt the ladders if you have a severe fear of heights.
8. Name: Rudolfův kámen Type: viewpoint Why go: Another spectacular peak in the Jetřichovice rock city. It offers a rugged and wilder feel than Mariina vyhlídka. Best for: Experienced hikers. Where: Jetřichovice. Time: 3 hours (including other peaks). Cost: Free. Getting there: Part of the Jetřichovice circuit trail. Tip: The final ascent involves metal ladders and safety wires.
9. Name: Belvedere Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: The oldest lookout point in the area. It overlooks the deep Elbe River canyon. Best for: Easy access and river views. Where: Labská stráň. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible by car or a trail from Hřensko. Tip: There is a hotel nearby where you can grab coffee with a view.
10. Name: Königstein Fortress Type: day trip Why go: One of the largest hilltop fortifications in Europe. It sits on a massive mesa overlooking the park. Best for: A mix of history and scenery. Where: Königstein (Germany). Time: 4 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Train to Königstein station, then a short walk or shuttle. Tip: The walk around the outer walls is nearly 2 kilometers long.

Essential Tips for Your Hiking Adventure

Preparation is key for a successful trip. The best time to visit Bohemian Switzerland National Park is during late spring or early autumn. During these months, the weather is mild and the colors are vibrant. Summer can be very hot and crowded. Winter offers a quiet, snowy landscape but some trails may be slippery.

Always check the Visit Czechia website for the latest trail conditions. Some areas might be closed due to forest recovery or safety reasons. Wear layers of clothing as the temperature drops in the deep gorges. Good hiking shoes with grip are mandatory for the sandstone surfaces. Pack plenty of water, especially for the longer ridge trails.

Respect the local environment by staying on marked paths. The sandstone is fragile and easily eroded. Fire is a major risk in these pine forests, so never light matches. Mobile signal can be weak in the deep canyons. It is a good idea to download an offline map before you head out.

How to Plan Your Trip from Prague

Most hikers start their journey from the capital. Knowing how to get to Bohemian Switzerland from Prague will save you time. The most popular way is by train. Take a fast train from Prague Main Station to Děčín. The journey takes about 90 minutes and is very scenic.

From Děčín, you can take a local bus or a smaller train to Hřensko. Busses run frequently during the high season. If you prefer more comfort, consider booking a guided day tour. These tours often include transport and a professional guide. If you have extra time, you could also visit Karlovy Vary on a different day.

Driving is another option if you want more flexibility. The drive from Prague takes about two hours. Parking in Hřensko can be difficult and expensive in the summer. Try to arrive early to secure a spot. Having a car allows you to visit remote spots like the Tisa Walls more easily.