Planning Your Bohemian Switzerland Adventure

Before you start, check the best time to visit Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer is beautiful but can be very crowded. Most trails are well-marked with color-coded signs. The hike to the arch is moderate but requires decent fitness. You will walk on rocky terrain and some steep inclines. Always check the official weather forecast before heading out.

10 Highlights of the Pravcicka Brana Hiking Route from Hrensko

This list highlights the best stops along the Pravcicka Brana hiking route from Hrensko. Each spot offers a unique look at the park's sandstone beauty. Here are the top picks for your itinerary:

1. Name: Hrensko Village Type: Sight Why go: This is the gateway to the national park. It sits at the confluence of the Labe and Kamenice rivers. Best for: Starting your journey and grabbing snacks. Where: Border of Czech Republic and Germany. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus or ferry from Decin. Tip: Use the public restrooms here before starting the climb.
2. Name: Pravčická Brána Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. It is an iconic symbol of the Czech Republic. Best for: Photography and epic views. Where: 3km uphill from Hrensko. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Approx. 100 CZK for access to viewpoints. Getting there: Follow the red hiking trail from Hrensko. Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid large tour groups.
3. Name: Falcon’s Nest (Sokolí hnízdo) Type: Experience Why go: A historic chateau built into the rocks in 1881. It now houses a restaurant and a small gallery. Best for: A scenic lunch break. Where: Directly next to the arch. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Price of a meal or drink. Getting there: Same path as the arch. Tip: Sit on the terrace for a view of the forest floor far below.
4. Name: The Great Viewpoint Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers the best angle to photograph the arch from above. You can see the vast forest canopy extending into Germany. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Steep stairs above Falcon's Nest. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in arch entry. Getting there: Follow the marked paths behind the chateau. Tip: Hold onto the railings as the steps are narrow.
5. Name: Mezní Louka Type: Sight Why go: A small settlement that serves as a major trail hub. It has hotels and a playground for kids. Best for: Ending your hike or switching trails. Where: 6km from Hrensko. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the forest road from the arch. Tip: Check the bus schedule here for your return to Hrensko.
6. Name: Wild Gorge (Divoká soutěska) Type: Experience Why go: A peaceful boat ride through a deep sandstone canyon. The water is calm and the mossy walls are towering. Best for: Nature lovers and families. Where: Between Mezní Louka and Hrensko. Time: 20-minute boat ride. Cost: Approx. 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Follow the yellow trail from Mezní Louka. Tip: The boats only run during the warmer months.
7. Name: Mary’s Lookout (Mariina vyhlídka) Type: Viewpoint Why go: A famous wooden hut perched on a sharp rock peak. It offers a 360-degree view of the Jetřichovice hills. Best for: Sunset watchers. Where: Near the village of Jetřichovice. Time: 2 hours (round trip). Cost: Free. Getting there: Short drive or bus from Hrensko. Tip: The climb is steep, so wear sturdy hiking boots.
8. Name: Šaunštejn Rock Castle Type: Sight Why go: Ruins of a 14th-century robber baron castle. You climb ladders to reach the top plateaus. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Near Vysoká Lípa. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Red trail from Mezní Louka. Tip: Not recommended for those with a fear of heights.
9. Name: Tisa Rocks (Tiské stěny) Type: Day trip Why go: A magical "city of rocks" used as a filming location for Narnia. The rock formations are incredibly unique. Best for: Families and casual hikers. Where: 20km from Hrensko. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Car or bus via Děčín. Tip: Explore the "Small Walls" section for fewer crowds.
10. Name: Bastei Bridge Type: Day trip Why go: A world-famous stone bridge in the German part of the park. It links jagged rock formations. Best for: Seeing the German side of the mountains. Where: Saxon Switzerland, Germany. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free (parking is paid). Getting there: 30-minute drive from Hrensko. Tip: Combine this with Hrensko for a full-day cross-border tour.

How to Reach Hrensko from Prague

Learning how to get to Bohemian Switzerland from Prague is simple. Most travelers take a train from Prague Main Station to Děčín. The journey takes about 90 minutes. From Děčín, catch bus 402 or a ferry to Hrensko. You can find more info on the Visit Czechia website. Driving is also an option and takes around 2 hours. Parking in Hrensko fills up very quickly during weekends. Try to arrive before 9:00 AM to secure a spot.

Essential Tips for Your Hiking Trip

Pack plenty of water as there are few shops on the trails. Wear layered clothing because the gorges can be chilly. Stay on the marked paths to protect the local environment. The park is a protected area with rare plants. Always carry a physical map or an offline digital map. Mobile signal can be weak in the deep canyons. Check the Prague.eu portal for regional travel updates. If you plan to visit the gorges, bring cash for the boatmen. Most of them do not accept credit cards.