Discover the Enchanting Bohemian Central Highlands: Embark on a Scenic Adventure and Scale Its Majestic Peaks

The unique natural conditions are what make the Bohemian Central Highlands one of the most diverse regions in the Czech Republic, rich in various plant and animal life. Among the numerous species found here, several dozen are critically or severely endangered. Are you wondering where to witness this natural beauty up close or which mountains to hike in the Bohemian Central Highlands?

Here are some tips for family outings in the Bohemian Central Highlands.

Must-visit Mountains: Milešovka, Říp, and Lovoš

The highest peak in the Bohemian Central Highlands is Milešovka (836.6 m), often referred to as the Queen of the Bohemian Central Highlands. This mountain experiences the strongest winds in the Czech Republic, with calm days averaging only 8 days a year. Each year, it witnesses the highest frequency of storms in the country, earning it the nickname Thunder Mountain. You can reach the summit from three different starting points: the challenging red-marked trail from Milesov involves a steep slate path and is not suitable for biking. Alternatively, you can begin your hike from Černčice or Bílý Újezd on the easier blue trail, which leads to a less strenuous route. Both Černice and Bílý Újezd are located at higher elevations than Milešov.

Known for its legendary significance, the mountain Říp stands at 456 m. An ancient sacred structure may have been built at its summit, possibly the 1039 Romanesque rotunda dedicated to St. George and St. Vojtech. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Bohemian Central Highlands and the lush forests of the Kokořínsko region in the distance. Notably, on the northern side of the mountain, you’ll find one of the nineteen cornerstones of the National Theatre in Prague. Originally, Říp was a treeless hill with onlysteppe vegetation. It wasn’t until the 19th century that an artificial reforestation with oak-pine occurred. The ascent to the peak is quite manageable; there’s an asphalt road starting from the village of Rovné that leads you up.

A well-known and easily recognizable mountain in the Bohemian Central Highlands is Lovoš (573 m), located near Lovosice. Its distinct shape features two peaks, known as Velký and Malý Lovoš. From the summit, stunning viewpoints await with sights of Milešovka, Kletečná, Ostrý, Sutomský vrch, Boreč, Ovčín, Košt’álov, Jezerka, Hazmburk, Radobýl, Deblík, Plešivec, also including Říp, Polabská nížina, Lovosice, and the beautiful Píšt’anské jezero filled with sailing boats, along with the busy Teplice motorway. The two peaks are geologically distinct: Velký Lovoš is composed of basalt, while Little Lovoš is made up of different material. The hike to the summit is gentle and easy, though it gets a bit steeper in certain areas. A pleasant 3 km path leads from Lovosice along the green trail. An interesting phenomenon found here is the local growth of Opuntia. This cactus has thrived here since the 1950s as part of an amateur experiment that proved remarkably successful. However, don’t expect to find them along the marked trails; they grow off the beaten path.

Mountains with Similar Names but Unique Characteristics: Boreň and Boreč

When planning a trip, make sure to note that you won’t confuse these similarly named mountains! Mount Boreň (539 m) is located near Bílina, right off expressway No. 13. Although it may appear to be a simple hike on the map, the trek is quite demanding. Starting from Cottages under Bořní, the path climbs up around the mountain. Initially, you’ll walk on asphalt, then switch to a forest trail, and finally navigate over rocks. The mountain features stunning black needle-like rock formations and towering rock walls, giving an impressive display. Among its striking features are columnar structures arranged like inverted fans. You’ll find several large boulders to navigate as you ascend to the very top, but the sweeping views make the effort worthwhile. From the peak, you can enjoy panoramic views that reveal a significant section of Bohemia, including Milešovka, the Doupovské hory, the peaks of the Krušné hory, as well as the towns of Most, Teplice, Děčínský Sněžník, and Jedlová. You can return the way you came, or take a loop around the Bořeň nature trail that encircles the mountain.

Boreč (449 m) is a less prominent hill that may not offer extensive views, but hosts its own natural wonders. This hill is located near Lovosice, west of the D8 motorway near Režný Újezd. A nature trail also begins here. The hike to the summit is not very challenging; the terrain can be described as “forest-like” with abundant deciduous trees and lush greenery. In autumn, fog can sometimes settle in, making navigation a little tricky. An unusual feature of this area is the ventarolas, a system of fissures that perforate the mountain. In wintertime, these vents draw in cold air, which warms and adds moisture as it passes through the rock before being released from the top. The temperature difference can reach up to 20°C, making the vents seem to emit smoke during harsh frosts. In summer, however, air flows in the opposite direction through the mountain.

Advanced Hiking in the Bohemian Central Highlands: Oltářík, Košt’álov, and Holý vrch

If you’re searching for lesser-known peaks in the Bohemian Central Highlands that promise unforgettable experiences of stunning, untouched views, we have some suggestions for shorter hikes that gradually lead uphill, yet are not overly demanding. The Oltářík Hill (568 m) is easily reachable via the red and blue trails from the village of Thanksgiving. The path winds through the forest, proceeding gently around the hill, leading up to the castle ruins where breathtaking views of the hilly landscape of the Bohemian Central Highlands await.

In stark contrast, Košt’álov (481 m) offers more yet still features a nature reserve, although the remains of its namesake castle are not well-preserved. This area showcases striking basalt rocks beneath which lies a rubble pit, while the remaining landscape is adorned with a dense deciduous forest dominated by hornbeam trees. Once again, from the summit, you can enjoy lovely views of the surrounding landscape.

Holý vrch (458 m), close to the village of Sutom and not far from Třebenice, remains largely treeless. Its summit provides a complete view of the Bohemian Central Highlands and the Modla stream valley. From its peak, you can spot various castles including Košt’álov, Hazmburk, Oltářík, Skalka, and the castle at Vlastislav. Not far from Holý vrch lies Boreč; you can easily combine outings to both mountains in a single trip since they are only about 3 kilometers apart.