Exciting Family-Friendly Bike Trails for Adventures with Little Ones

Forget about climbing steep hills, dealing with tears, and hauling backpacks stuffed with protein bars. This is the way we cycle – together with kids, sharing smiles, and occasionally hearing, “Mom, can we get ice cream?” with routes that everyone can enjoy. If you’ve ever found yourself saying “I can’t go on anymore” or “my feet are sore.” With our series titled Fourteen Regions & Fourteen Tips, we’ve explored every corner of the country and picked out the coolest bike tours for families to try. These are routes where you won’t mind taking it slow, stopping frequently, and, most importantly, soaking up the experience. From the scenic South Bohemian Ponds to the straight paths in Haná and the industrial trails of Ostrava – every spot encapsulates its own unique beauty, tranquility, and adventure… all conveniently located within about 15 kilometers, often with a lemonade stand waiting for you. So, strap on your helmets, inflate your tires, and get ready. It’s going to be a great ride!

1. Prague: easygoing routes in parks and along riverbanks

When it comes to cycling with children in the capital, it is often a Tour de Chaos, so you’ll need to pick your route carefully. What works well? For instance, the scenic path along the Vltava River from Troja to Klecánky. The asphalt is smooth, there’s not much traffic, and even if you don’t feel like setting speed records, you can make stops at the ZOO, at the botanical garden, or at a playground. A quick hike? Definitely a stop for ice cream too! Another favorite in Prague is Ladronka Park – just be cautious and stay at the edges with kids since skaters zoom around like they’re in the NHL. The Hvězda preserve, similar to Stromovka, offers tranquility, shady spots, and many benches to relax on, while the Modřanská trail provides a perfectly flat area with a chance to stop at a pumptrack. Navigating Prague by bike can be enjoyable if you know the right turns to take.

More tips for young cyclists: Bike path along the Rokytka River

2. Central Bohemia region: enjoyable rides down by the rivers

Cycling with children in Central Bohemia is a breeze – the scenic bike paths beside the Elbe and the Vltava attract lots of families heading in the right direction. For example, try the Vltava Trail leading to Mělník – it’s a lovely route among trees and near the water, with an opportunity to feed goats at the Zelčín Zoopark or admire the beautiful lock at Hořín. Another popular ride is from Nymburk to Poděbrady – a path that suits both cyclists on standard bikes and those with kids’ bikes. In Poděbrady, you can stroll along the colonnade, and on your way back, unwind at the Botanicus Craft Centre and Herb Gardens. For those fond of gentle terrain, there’s a bike trail along the Berounka River, for instance from Černošice to Karlštejn – no strenuous climbs, but you can visit a fairytale castle and savor fresh trout for dinner. Don’t miss it!

3. South Bohemian Region: are you ready to explore the Lipno area?

If there’s a place known for flat roads and easy biking comfort, it’s the South Bohemian Region. Lipno nad Vltavou is often regarded as the bicycle capital. Here, the whole family can take a bike ride, from toddlers in seats to grandparents with GPS. The most popular ride? The lake trail from Lipno nad Vltavou to Frymburk. This nearly 15-kilometer route winds along the Lipno shore and offers breathtaking views of the lake, with plenty of twists, turns, short climbs, and safe little descents. If the kids are still eager for more, you can extend the ride around the lake or head to the forest playground at the Kingdom of the Forest where they can swing, slide, and jump. Or take a ride up the Treetop Trail (feel free to use the cable car!) – leave the bikes at the base and walk up for beautiful views.

For those really craving a lovely bike ride, look elsewhere in the Třeboň region – where you’ll find ponds, dams, birds, and flat trails perfumed with the scent of well-being, such as the Lužnice – Nežárka cycle path. Perfect for lazy cyclists, feature stops for ice cream, blueberry pies, and fish fries – it’s like stepping into a storybook.

4. Pilsen Region: with views of Šumava hills

Things are exciting in the Pilsen Region! Literally and figuratively. If you’re seeking quiet locations and a bike ride suitable for happy parents cycling with kids (without facing extreme elevation changes), consider a trip from Domažlice to Babylon – this pleasant route begins at a pumptrack and meanders through fields and forests with hints of Šumava beyond. At Babylon, you’ll find a swimming pool and a delightful retro atmosphere reminding you of tartan fabric and sunscreen. Another treat includes the bike path from Dobřany to Horšovský Týn. This route is fairly lengthy, allowing you to select different sections to ride. You can mix biking with visits to several castles and chateaus, even if just from the outside, followed by a delightful ice cream treat from Dobřany.

Want a little adventure? Start at the pumptrack and skatepark in Rokycany and meander past the Bahna army complex near Strašice to Zaječov. You can even explore deeper into the green coolness of Brdy – but don’t worry, the climbs are gentle and the landscapes resemble a painting. In addition to cycling tours in the Brdy region, you can also opt for routes around the Bolevecké ponds near Plzeň, great for relaxing trips – with trails, ponds, barbecues, and paths that even beginner cyclists can manage.

More tips for little cyclists: Selected sections of the Otava cycle path, Chrást u Plzně – Bukovec – Doubravka cycle path

5. Karlovy Vary Region: cycling between geysers and springs

The Karlovy Vary Region is a pleasant surprise as well! Here, you can expect not only waffles and Becherovka but also a fantastic cycle path that runs alongside the Ohře River. It’s one of our prettiest river paths for biking. The stretch between Cheb and Karlovy Vary is particularly safe for young cyclists as nearly fifty kilometers are designed solely for bikes. So, what can you anticipate along the way? Perhaps a fairytale castle like Loket, charming riverside nooks, Svatošské rocks (or look for a fossilized wedding – see if you can discover a fossil bride!), and informational boards placed at thoughtful intervals for younger children.

Are your kids more seasoned and disciplined cyclists? Then they can handle the slightly more challenging but safe journey from Cheb to Františkovy Lázně. This route treats you to stunning views of the Skalka reservoir, you’ll pass by the ancient volcano Komorní hůrka, and with your destination being a fantastic water park, both kids and parents will have a blast! And if you’re looking to satisfy the kids’ sweet cravings, you might just swap ice cream for freshly picked blueberries along the way, exploring one of the routes snaking through the slopes and ridges of the Ore Mountains!

More tips for little cyclists: Wallenstein’s cycle path from Cheb to German Waldsassen

6. Ústí nad Labem region: bike paths amidst swans and volcanic landscapes

Northern Bohemia? A biking treasure trove that guarantees waves of fun, amazing views, and bike paths filled with interesting stories! Check out the route from Litoměřice to Ústí nad Labem along the Elbe cycle path – this stretch hugs the waterside, is flat, safe, and packed with delightful bonuses. You can blend cycling with a delightful boat cruise while enjoying sights of the volcanic peaks of the Bohemian Central Highlands, Střekov Castle, and chances to gaze at boats just like you see in the movies. And let’s not forget the adults! They will surely appreciate the nearby cafes, stalls, and maybe indulge in a dip in the Elbe – though not literally, of course!

What about a fun trip for younger adventurers? Explore the Most region, where a cool bike path, dotted with playgrounds and pumptrack fun, circles around Lake Matylda. Kids who want at least a tiny hill – but one that’s friendly for them – can try the slopes around Lake Milada or ride around Lake Most. Here, cycling intertwines with the history of a vanished city but still retains a touch of allure. Plus, you can share tales with the kids about the church that once moved on rails!

7. Liberec region: where the cycling flows like clockwork

Even though Liberec Region features its fair share of hills, there are routes suitable for families that won’t leave you exhausted or needing a rescue from the mountain service. The highlight is the Varhany cycle path, which runs along the defunct railway line connecting Česká Lípa and Kamenický Šenov, completely free of cars, featuring tunnels, a viaduct, and stops perfect for snacks, swings, and collecting stones. As an added treat, check out the basalt organ at Panská skala, the filming site for the beloved fairytale The Proud Princess!

Water and swimming enthusiasts will also find plenty to love: Lake Macha and its surrounding areas boast forest bike paths, sandy beaches, swimming spots, and pirate ship adventures. For those craving more relaxation, cycling the Jizera Highway with your kids can be a great choice – although it’s better to leave the more challenging segments, with forest paths, blueberry patches, and occasional mountain views, for the seasoned cyclists.

More tips for small cyclists: St. Zdislava Cycle Path, selected stretches of the Jizera Greenway, cycle paths around Česká Lípa

8. Hradec Králové Region: where rides are sweat-free

The flat landscapes surrounding the Elbe present an enjoyable ride – and it’s especially true in the Hradec Králové Region and the Hradec Králové area. The local Elbe Trail is a family’s dream come true: flat, spacious, and filled with spots to stop and feed ducks or cool off at Biřička or one of the many nearby ponds. Take for example the Hradec Králové – Kuks cycle path, where you’ll discover Baroque architecture, statues, herbal gardens, and ice cream at the end! If you’re keen on a trip with some excitement, cycling to the Dvůr Králové Safari Park will take you nearly right up to the antelopes—the bicycle view is quite unique!

You can also enjoy a leisurely jaunt through the forests of Hradec, taking the scenic route through the Orlice Nature Park from Hradec Králové to Týniště nad Orlicí, or by following the bicycle path from Hronov to Náchod. One exciting journey you can take goes right to Hell – a real challenge, you might say! There won’t be many climbs, and no steep hills loom ahead, making the roughly one-hour ride a wonderful option for any free afternoon.

9. Pardubice Region: gingerbread, cycling, and leisure

The Pardubice Region can be a dream come true for children, where they can enjoy riding on a gingerbread bike trail. The number one choice is definitely the Hradubická trail—made of moss and gingerbread, which takes you from Pardubice to Hradec Králové. This charming bike path is endlessly enjoyable for the kids while also being flat for adults to navigate effortlessly.

Another winner? Consider the bike excursion from Chocne to Letohrad (perhaps including a stop at the Museum of Crafts) or from Litomyšl and its surroundings. The Smetana Region offers smooth paths along the Loučná River, outdoor art installations, and parks perfect for biking, picnicking, and relaxing. If you want something truly special, don’t miss the bike rides around the ponds in Lanškroun – these rides are easy, enchanting, and a favorite among the kids.

More tips for little cyclists: Explore various recommended routes in the Pardubice Region

10. Vysočina: where cyclists take it easy because it’s enjoyable

If you picture cycling in the Highlands as a quest to find flat spots between hills and relaxing by serene ponds, you’re mostly right. Despite its hilly reputation, Vysočina has areas where you can pedal effortlessly. One excellent choice is the Posázava cycle path, nearly ten kilometers long, tracing the old railway line from Přibyslav to Sázava. You will also have an enjoyable experience on the paths around Nové Město na Moravě – with forest trails, children’s biking pathways in the Cyclo Vysočina Arena, a pumptrack, and if you find yourself needing a break, you can always indulge in blueberry pie or personally pick fresh blueberries straight from the bushes.

Another hidden gem? The regions surrounding Žďár nad Sázavou. You can ride from Zelená hora around the Pilská reservoir towards the Ždárské vrchy mountains. Expect flatter terrain, forests, and perfect spots for a light snack or for enjoying a big tumble in the grass. To spice things up a little, try out the Hamer walking circuit – a marked trail showcasing giant fairy-tale statues that will surely bring smiles to children’s faces and awe to the adults.

11. The South Moravian Region: even a wine district can be a kid-friendly biking paradise

Everyone knows it: South Moravia is simply a blissful destination. And it’s not just for those who love wine. It’s also not only for vineyards – through the floodplain forest and alongside the river, offering stops at castles or bunkers. You’ll find a level landscape fit for textbooks, with nature right out of a fairytale theme. Alternatively, consider exploring the Lednice-Valtice area – it’s a cycling fantasy with majestic castles, ponds, chateaux, and cozy gazebos. The paths here are wide, straight, lovely, and your kids will be rolling along like the royals of Liechtenstein.

And here’s another suggestion? The vicinity around the Novomlýnské reservoirs and Pálava. Be careful; the Pálava region is better suited for athletic riders (as cycling to the high parts is not allowed), but the bike paths around the water and its slopes make for ideal locations for family outings. Playgrounds, food stalls, and swimming spots create a one-stop adventure. Plus, on this journey, you can hit up Aqualand Moravia and Mikulov – hopping on and off your bike, enjoying ice cream, and then back to cycling again.

More tips for little cyclists: Cycle path along the Svitava River

12. Zlín Region: cycling through Wallachia without breaking a sweat

Although Wallachia may be synonymous with hills and slivovitz, there’s a children’s and family-friendly cycling option too. For instance, you can try the Bečva cycle path that stretches from Valašské Meziříčí through Vsetín to Velké Karlovice. This route runs along the Bečva River, is smooth, straightforward, and offers several stops – such as at the Panská zahrada park in Vsetín, at a pumptrack, or at the Moravian Tapestry Manufactory (if you want to be the educated and cultured parent of the group!).

If you’re feeling adventurous in Wallachia, how about riding along the Bata Canal in the southern part of the Zlín region? You’ll be taking flat trails alongside the water, with the option to load your bikes onto a boat and experience a ride reminiscent of Holland. Kids will thoroughly enjoy it – with docks, piers, stalls, ice cream, and the occasional heron as an added bonus.

13. Olomouc Region: effortless cycling in Haná

Haná is more than just traditional costumes and tvarůžky – it’s a region brimming with dreamy bike paths where families will feel just like they’re riding through a storybook. A great suggestion? For example, the Bečva cycle path in the Olomouc region or enjoying the scenery around Olomouc itself. There’s a wonderful bike path winding around the Morava River – it’s quiet, wide, and includes many sights along the way. A stop at the rope center, a visit to the zoo at Svatý Kopeček, and mountains of ice cream? Yes, please!

What about Litovelsko Pomoraví? Experience tranquil forest trails, winding river bends, wooden bridges, and the only sounds being giggles from children and the smooth turning of bike gears. The route from Olomouc to Litovel and onwards to Mohelnice is just perfect – flat, shaded, with relaxing refreshments, and the chance to see grazing horses or waterfowl here and there. And don’t miss out on a visit to the Litovel Pomerania Nature House featuring a massive play area. Another delightful option from the “What can we do to avoid boredom?” playbook is the town of Hranice and the surrounding Bečva River area, which features again the Bečva cycle path. You’ll glide easily through the beautiful landscape to the spa at Teplice nad Bečvou, where the children can splash their feet, adults can enjoy a coffee, and the whole family can exclaim, “What a fun ride!”

14. The Moravian-Silesian Region: where you bike not uphill but along to a great rhythm

Excitement awaits in the north! Ostrava, with its industrial marvels, is an exceptional starting point – for instance, the trail around Dolní Vítkovice and along the Ostravice River is well-maintained, full of life, and has plenty of spots where children can play while adults enjoy a coffee and everyone takes in the fascinating views of the blast furnaces as if they had leaped from Jules Verne’s novels. And as you head just outside the city, the path extends into the countryside offering a smooth ride.

Another fantastic choice? The bike path from Opava to Hradec nad Moravicí, the Koleje cycle path (guess its name comes from the former railway line, and you’ll win a lollipop), or the Hlučínsko area surrounding Hlučín Lake – where cycle paths stretch perfectly straight, making them great for young cyclists.

You can also explore the Beskydy mountains with your kids, but with some smart planning! At first glance, these hills look like quite the challenge, but we know the best routes that prevent the little ones from overheating. With older children, you can take on the Radegast loops, while smaller ones might benefit from using the cyclobus or cable car to reach Pustevny. It’s a downhill journey after that, and before you go, be sure to check out the Wallachian Trail or the Radegast statue. Pedal through the mountains, smiling all the while, while keeping your bike’s mudguard only subtly muddy.

So, what’s stopping you? Grab your bikes and helmets, and hit the road! Remember: the best biking adventure leaves children happily tired, not worn out – preferably with sand in their shoes and a trail of strawberry jam smeared on their T-shirts.

Family‑Friendly Cycling Routes Across the Czech Republic

Explore the country’s diverse landscapes on two wheels with routes tailored for families and children—safe, scenic and packed with fun stops along the way.

Prague’s Riverside & City Trails

• Vltava River Path (Troja → Klecánky): A mostly flat, paved route beside the river, ideal for a gentle ride and riverside views.

• Ladronka Park Loops: Traffic‑free circuits through greenery, playgrounds and picnic areas—perfect for little riders.

• Modřanská Trail: Scenic woodland paths following the riverbank, with easy terrain and shaded stretches.

South Bohemia – Lipno & Forest Adventures

• Lipno Lake Trail: A family‑friendly loop around the lake with well‑maintained surfaces and rental stations.

• Kingdom of the Forest Playground: A woodsy stop where kids can burn off energy on forest‑themed play equipment.

• Treetop Trail: An accessible wooden canopy walk reached by bike, offering panoramic forest views.

Central Bohemia – Rivers, Castles & Zoos

• Zelčín Zoopark Excursion: Roll through gentle country lanes to the small zoo, home to farm and exotic animals.

• Hořín Lock Ride: A flat riverside path leading to the historic lock—ideal for beginners.

• Berounka River Route to Karlštejn: A longer but undemanding trail, with the fairy‑tale Karlštejn Castle as the highlight.

Karlovy Vary Region – Ohře River & Reservoir Views

• Cheb → Karlovy Vary Section: A smoothly surfaced riverside path, safe for families and stretching between two spa towns.

• Skalka Reservoir Loop: A shorter circuit offering lakeside scenery and quiet rest spots.

Hradec Králové Region – Elbe River Path

• Hradec Králové → Kuks: Straight, well‑kept towpaths beside the Elbe, leading to the Baroque hospital and spa complex at Kuks.

Vysočina Highlands – Plains & Forests

• Nové Město na Moravě Surrounds: Rolling meadows and mixed woodland trails, with minimal traffic and plenty of nature.

• Žďár nad Sázavou Trails: Serene forest paths and meadow passages winding past historic chapels.

Ostrava’s Industrial Greenways

• Steelworks‑to‑Nature Rides: Smooth cycle routes repurposed from old industrial rail lines, dotted with educational panels and roadside cafés.

Key Features for Families

• Safe Surfaces & Gentle Gradients: Routes chosen for minimal elevation and traffic separation.

• Engaging Stops: Zoos, playgrounds, rope‑course centers and historic sites to break up the ride.

• Bike‑Friendly Amenities: Rental stations, rest areas and clear signage throughout each trail.

Whether you’re seeking riverside relaxation, lakeside exploration or a taste of industrial heritage, these family‑friendly bike trips showcase the very best of Czech cycling.