From sandstone arches in Bohemian Switzerland to ancient spruce forests in Sumava, the Czech Republic holds some of Central Europe's most rewarding natural landscapes. This is where to start.
Explore DestinationsMost visitors to the Czech Republic stop at Prague's old town square and call it done. That is a shame, because the country's real character lives in its forests, river valleys, and sandstone formations — places that take a bit more effort to reach but reward that effort generously.
I started exploring Czech nature seriously about six years ago, initially just for weekend hikes from Prague. What I found kept pulling me back: well-maintained trail networks, genuinely diverse ecosystems within short distances of each other, and a culture of outdoor respect that makes these places feel cared for rather than overrun.
This site focuses on the four national parks and the most accessible protected landscape areas. Each destination gets honest coverage — what makes it worth visiting, what the practical challenges are, and how to approach it without leaving a heavy footprint.
Image: Wikimedia Commons
Each of these national parks offers something distinct. Here is what sets them apart and what to expect when you visit.
National Park
Europe's largest natural sandstone arch sits at the heart of this compact but dramatic park in northern Bohemia. The gorges, rock formations, and river canyon make it unlike anywhere else in the country.
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National Park
The Giant Mountains along the Polish border are the highest in the Czech Republic and home to alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and some of the country's most challenging hiking routes.
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National Park
The largest national park in the country stretches along the Bavarian border, covering ancient peat bogs, glacial lakes, and some of the last old-growth forest left in Central Europe.
Read the guideCzech trails use a colour-coded system managed by KCT. Red marks the main long-distance routes, blue and green lead to key points of interest, yellow connects villages. Stick to marked paths in core zones.
Late May through September is ideal for most parks. Krkonose gets heavy snow from November to April. Bohemian Switzerland is busiest in July and August — consider shoulder season visits for a quieter experience.
Czech national parks charge no general admission. Some specific attractions like Pravčická brána have their own fees. Parking lots near popular trailheads do charge, usually 100-150 CZK per day.
Camping is restricted to designated sites in national parks. Fires are prohibited outside marked areas. Dogs must be kept on leads. These rules are actively enforced, especially in core protection zones.