Escape the Ordinary: Discover the Timeless Charm of Mountain Huts!

The first mountain huts are associated with the “Budní gospodarství” – in areas where trees were cleared on meadows, mountain residents constructed huts that they initially used for keeping cattle or drying hay. Over time, as more tourists began visiting the mountains, these huts transformed into simple taverns and inns where travelers enjoyed meals similar to what the locals ate, including bread, butter, milk, and cottage cheese.

From the Hayfields of Krkonoše to Government Cottages

The oldest Krkonoše mountain lodge is known as Luční bouda, which is notable for brewing its own beer. This building, located on the ridges of the Krkonoše Mountains close to Sněžka, has been around since 1625 (possibly even earlier in 1623). The hotel rooms have been thoroughly renovated, providing a tranquil getaway for tourists across various categories. Visitors can also enjoy a wide array of local activities.

Another well-known lodge is Vosecká bouda, which was established a year earlier in 1743 as a hay shelter. At that time, it was located far away from any civilization, with cattle grazing in its vicinity during the summer months. It has welcomed tourists since 1896, when six guest rooms were opened, and its popularity grew further as it became a favored stop for horseback riding through Mumlava valley to Harrachov.

Mountain Lodge Dvoračky was one of the oldest huts in the Giant Mountains, built in 1893. It is situated at an elevation of 1140 m above sea level, positioned between Lysá hora and Kotel peak at a popular intersection of hiking paths. Among the notable guests recorded in its memorial book was President Dr. Eduard Beneš along with his wife Hana. The lodge was demolished this year, and the owners are currently constructing an accurate replica. However, visitors can still enjoy the nearby Štumpovka cottage, known for its famous blueberry muffins.

Vrbatova bouda is located on Golden Hill at an altitude of 1,400 m above sea level. This lodge is part of a series of mountain structures that serve as fixed landmarks for both locals and visitors in the Krkonoše Mountains. Since its construction in the 1960s, there hasn’t been much significant maintenance, but it was renovated in 2016, during which an extension to the shelter was completed. This project was recognized by being nominated for the prestigious international Mies van der Rohe Award in 2017.

One of the most well-known and beautiful lodges in the Jizera Mountains is the Clam-Gallas hunting lodge, which dates back to 1844. It was frequented by Dr. Přemysl Šámal during the interwar period, serving as the Chancellor to President T. G. Masaryk. Today, Šámalova chata and its restaurant are favorite spots for both tourists and locals, likely because of its motto, “Mom’s home cooking“, reflecting the authentic quality of its meals. During the interwar years, this “chateau” underwent renovations, with many of its rooms lined with larch wood. Before a planned visit from President Benes, electricity was even installed in the cottage. Interestingly, the furnishings in the apartment and bathroom were identical to those in the facilities of Minister Jan Masaryk at the Czernin Palace.

Legends of the Orlické Mountains Named After Masaryk and Kramář

Masaryk’s cottage on Šerlich in the Orlické Mountains was constructed in 1925 by the Czech Tourist Club from Hradec Kralove, based on a design by architect B. Fuchs. The interior showcases rich wooden carvings, including one of Rampusak, who is considered the benevolent spirit of the mountains. The menu features a variety of game specialties, particularly the goulash served in a bread bowl, which is a popular choice. The lodge also offers accommodation in double and triple rooms, as well as modest hostel-style lodging.

Another celebrated spot in the Eagle Mountains is Kramář’s cottage, located on Dry Hill, which was built in 1928 following a design by architect Jaroslav Stejskal. The lookout tower beside the cottage, originally intended as a water tower, provides scenic views of the Orlické Mountains, Kralický Sněžník, and Hrubý Jeseník. In addition to lodging and dining options, the lodge also has wellness services available.

Architectural Treasures Designed by Dušan Jurkovič in the Hradec Králové Region

Jirásek’s Cottage, featuring a lookout tower, was constructed in 1923 under the design of architect Dušan Jurkovič on Dobrošov Hill, making it a true gem in the Náchod region. The cottage got its name in honor of the renowned author’s 70th birthday. In relation to the construction of fortifications on Dobrošov and the surrounding area, in 1937 the chalet was handed over to the Army of Czechoslovakia, enabling monitoring of the secret fortress construction. Since 2002, the lodge has provided tourists with both refreshments and accommodations at reasonable prices.

The same architect, Dušan Jurkovič, also designed Barton’s Shelter in Hell in 1912. This charming restaurant, originally a mill, is nestled in the valley of the Metuje River, around 5 km from Nové Město nad Metují. The interior is adorned with devil-themed decor, and the menu offers various “hellish” specialties. Guests have the option to stay in rooms or just find a space to sleep in a sleeping bag.

The Oldest Hut in Beskydy was Built by a Military Deserter

At the summit of the Beskydy Mountains, near the top station of the cable car from Trojanovice to Pustevny, stands a charming mountain cottage Maměnka and Libušín. The latter suffered destruction by fire in March 2014, leading to its reconstruction in 2017, and it officially reopened for visitors in 2020. These structures, designed by architect Dušan Jurkovič in 1898, feature folk architecture styles from Wallachia and Kysuce. Unique to the Libušín cottage are three stunning Art Nouveau chandeliers, a sideboard, a glass house, and a clock in its dining room, complemented by one hundred intricately carved chairs around tables. The cottage was originally decorated according to watercolor studies by Mikoláš Alš. Unfortunately, the originals were lost in the fire, but the meticulous restoration managed to revive the building to its former glory. The newly constructed Libušín was achieved through scientific reconstruction, utilizing authentic techniques. Traditional craftsmanship and original materials were applied in all restoration efforts.

The oldest mountain hotel in the Beskydy area is the Mountain hotel Charbulák situated on Gruni. Its history dates back to 1816 when the Charbulák family established their home here. The name Charbulák has French origins and was initially used by a Napoleonic soldier who deserted and made this area his home. His descendants built a tourist shelter in 1918, which eventually evolved into a hotel still operated by the family today. Noteworthy guests of the hotel have included actor Hugo Haas, poet Petr Bezruč, and Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry Jaroslav Heyrovský. In addition to delicious homemade meals, visitors can also enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside.