Discover Hradec Králové: Your Ultimate Hiking Haven in Czechia!
Czech–Polish Ridge Trail: Journey Through the Krkonoše and Orlické Mountains
Our suggestion:
Be sure to explore the elegant
Baroque château
situated in Náchod, which stands proudly above the town like a sentinel of the past.
The Czech–Polish Ridge Trail (Hřebenovka) is one of the most scenic long-distance hiking paths available in the Hradec Králové Region. This impressive route winds its way along the ridges of the Orlické and Krkonoše Mountains, offering stunning vistas over both the Czech and Polish landscapes. The trail beautifully intertwines the natural world with rich historical and cultural elements, making it perfect for extended hikes with a pack on your back.
The Ridge Trail traverses a region steeped in historical significance, from the occupation of the Sudetenland to the transportation of Jewish individuals, alongside the dramatic expulsions and resettlements that occurred in the 1950s. Along this route, you will encounter both sacred sites and military memorials.
The initial segment of the Ridge Trail commences at the tourist border crossing known as Vosecká bouda (referred to in Polish as Hala Szrenicka) and aligns with the crest of the Krkonoše Mountains. At times, it even crosses into Polish territory, winding through areas like Česká budka, Sněžné jámy, Mužské kameny, and Dívčí kameny, before reaching Slezské sedlo and culminating at Polední kameny. Here, you will be spellbound by the gorgeous views of glacial lakes. From Polední kameny, the Ridge Trail pursues a path through Obří sedlo, leading up to the Czech Republic’s highest peak – Sněžka, which stands at an impressive 1,603 meters above sea level.
Tourist Signage: The hiking paths in the Czech Republic are well signposted with Tourist markings, which are maintained by the Czech Tourist Club.
Discover the Krkonoše Beer Trail
The Krkonoše Beer Trail spans 35 kilometers and merges the enchanting scenery of the highest mountains in the Czech Republic with the delightful experience of sampling local beers. This route invites you to several microbreweries, such as Hendrych, Trautenberk, Pecký pivovar, Pivovarská Bašta, and Friesovy boudy. For a more enjoyable experience, we suggest breaking the journey into two days, allowing ample time to relish not only the beers but also the breathtaking panoramas and the majestic mountain terrain.
A Hidden Treasure: Broumov Area and Bohemian Paradise
Our recommendation:
Trutnov serves as the gateway to the Krkonoše Mountains. It hosts the annual Trutnov Open Air Festival, affectionately known as the “Czech Woodstock”.
The ridge trail within the Broumov area begins near the charming village of Česká Čermná and meanders through Nový Hrádek, proceeding to Olešnice in the serene but equally captivating Orlické Mountains. From Olešnice, the Trail continues to Vrchmezí, Šerlich, Masaryk Chalet, and Velká Deštná, before reaching Kunštát Chapel. Not to be overlooked, the lookout tower on Anenský vrch and the artillery fortress Hanička are also worth visiting. The Jirásek Tourist Chalet, complete with its own lookout tower in Dobrošov, was crafted by the talented architect Dušan Jurkovič. The Ridge Trail officially departs from the Hradec Králové Region at the Zemská brána.
The entire Broumov area is certainly deserving of thorough exploration. The Broumovské stěny represent some of the most breathtaking locations in all of Czechia. Here you’ll find table mountains, fascinating rock formations, and the serene Benedictine monastery in Broumov, where visitors can spend the night in repurposed monastic cells. This unique blend of nature, spirituality, and architecture creates an experience that you’ll not want to miss. The same attractiveness applies to Bohemian Paradise, a remarkable UNESCO Geopark featuring stunning sandstone rock formations that line the picturesque river valleys and form sprawling rock cities.
Our Recommended Excursion:
Day Trip Along Lookout Towers
Distance: roughly 18–20 km
Estimated Duration: 6–7 hours of easy walking
Difficulty Level: moderate (gentle ascents and descents, encompassing forested and mountain paths)
Starting Point: Nový Hrádek
Ending Point: Deštné in the Orlické Mountains (bus return options available)
Route and Highlights:
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Šibeník Lookout Tower (Nový Hrádek)
The adventure kicks off at a distinct lookout tower constructed atop the framework of a former wind turbine. -
Vrchmezí (1,084 m) – Border Lookout Tower
A gentle ascent leading to a lookout tower positioned on the Czech–Polish border. -
Šerlich (1,027 m) – Masaryk Chalet
A historic mountain chalet that serves as a perfect place to rest and rejuvenate. -
Velká Deštná (1,115 m) – Modern Lookout Tower
The pinnacle of the Orlické Mountains, featuring a designer lookout tower shaped like a symbolic seashell indicating rainfall patterns.
Exploring by Bicycle or with Trekking Poles
Tip:
Visit Veselý Kopec, an open-air museum dedicated to traditional folk architecture and the historical lifestyles of our ancestors.
The Hradec Králové Region, with its historic center in Hradec Králové, boasts an abundance of historical treasures. If you appreciate the combination of physical activity and stunning scenery, consider the famous Elbe Cycle Route. This enchanting trail takes you along the Elbe River, potentially leading all the way to Kuks, renowned for the magnificent Kuks Hospital. This former hospice displays an open-air gallery filled with sculptures crafted by the renowned artist Matthias Bernard Braun. Kuks is regarded as one of the most beautiful Baroque locations in all of Czechia, and its exquisite surroundings make it a superb destination that comes highly recommended!
Right in Hradec Králové, you can enjoy a delightful afternoon in the city forests: an expansive network of trails designed for both walkers and cyclists winds through peaceful pine woodlands, featuring educational routes and areas to rest.
Wellness and Golf Amidst Nature
Following a long and rewarding hike, some well-earned recovery is ideal. Janské Lázně, Lázně Bělohrad, and Lázně Velichovky are perfect spots, specializing in the treatment of musculoskeletal ailments, and they provide top-notch wellness services. Golf aficionados will be pleased with nearby golf courses. The Grund Resort GOLF&SKI offers the unique combination of a golf experience in the summer months and skiing opportunities when winter arrives. Golf Club Grosshof features a stunning course embraced by nature, while the Golf Course at Hrádek u Nechanic delights with the ambiance of a picturesque English château park.
Insider Tip: Dvůr Králové nad Labem stands out as a must-visit destination for all wildlife enthusiasts. This location is home to the Dvůr Králové Safari Park, where you can drive among freely roaming African animals and even spend the night in close proximity to them.
