Explore the Stunning Peaks, Volcanic Wonders, and Unique Rock Formations of Bohemian Switzerland

What hiker wouldn’t recognize the iconic volcanic cones of the Bohemian Central Mountains? You have likely tackled famous peaks like Milešovka, Lovoš, Říp, Boreč, Bořeň, Raná, Vlhošť, or Varhošť… but do you know about the Golden Trail in the Land of Castles? This is an 89 km long hiking trail stretching from Ronov u Blíževedel all the way to Budyně nad Ohří, linking most of the important castle landmarks in the Bohemian Central Mountains region.

The Golden Trail runs from east to west, beginning at the ruins of Ronov Castle, moving to the village of Blíževedly where Hřídelík Castle is located, and passing through Úštěk and Sedlo to Litýš Castle, leading onto Třebušín with Kalich Castle. After this, prepare for a climb to Trojhora and, near Hlinná, to Hradiště. The ruins of Kamýk Castle can be found in the village of the same name, just below Plešivec Hill. To this day, remnants of the castle’s tower on a rocky outcrop, portions of the perimeter wall, and the southern wall with three windows are still visible. In Velké Žernoseky, the trail crosses the River Elbe via a ferry and ascends from Malé Žernoseky towards the Oparno Valley, where the ruins of Oparno stand.

Although the route passes near Milešov, it does not actually lead up to the highest peak in the České středohoří range. Instead, it heads in the opposite direction towards the intriguing ruins of Ostrý Castle, which provide a fantastic viewpoint. Going through Kocourov, it reaches Lipenská hora and Oltářík Castle, another spot known for its incredible views. From Děkovka under Oltářík, it isn’t far to Vlastislav and the remnants of Skalka Castle. Next up, hikers face the ascent towards the base of Košťálov Castle, which is in a state of disrepair and entry is prohibited; you then descend into Třebenice. From there, you will approach the notable Házmburk, visible from nearly every part of the Bohemian Central Mountains. The stronghold positioned atop the basalt massif provides spectacular views of the nearby landscape. The Golden Trail finally leads to Libochovice, which boasts an early Baroque chateau, before finishing at Budyně nad Ohří Castle.

If you enjoy breathtaking views, you won’t want to miss the charming circular trail titled “In search of the views at Porta Bohemica“, which is 10 kilometers long. The beautiful, canyon-like valley of the River Elbe, stretching from Velké and Malé Žernoseky to Ústí nad Labem, has earned the nickname The Czech Gate – Porta Bohemica. Here, the Elbe enters the Bohemian Central Mountains and starts creating stunning curves. The view of the river, winding between the peaks of the surrounding mountains on either side, is simply marvelous.

The trek begins at Dolní Zálezly railway station, following a green trail towards Dubice. After about 700 meters, you’ll turn right at Stupkova louka onto a blue nature trail that takes you up to the beautiful Moravanský stream waterfall. The route carries on along the blue trail, turning left at the crossroads until it connects back to the green trail. Shortly after, this will lead you to the Mlynářův kámen viewpoint and then to Dubičky, where you can see the small church of St Barbara, offering even more lovely views. From there, the trail continues along the yellow path to Doerell’s Lookout. At this point, you can either return the same way (below Mlynářův kámen, you can take the green trail back down to Dolní Zálezly), or choose an exciting alternative route that leads towards the railway line to Prackovice, though this route is not signposted. Once you reach the diverging point to Doerell’s Lookout, keep going along the yellow trail to the unmarked fork for Vilemína’s Lookout. From here, a path descends the hillside toward the Elbe, crosses a stream, and leads you directly to the station in Prackovice. Altogether, the distance is about 3.5 kilometers through unmarked terrain.

The Elbe Sandstone Mountains Protected Landscape Area is characterized by a series of deep gorges and canyons, bordered by remarkable rock massifs and towers, some of which form unique rock towns. A notable natural wonder is the dramatically carved canyon of the River Elbe that stretches between Děčín and Hřensko. This lush forested area is home to various wildlife, including deer and wild boar, with chamois having been reintroduced. The Elbe Sandstone Mountains Protected Landscape Area features incredible sites like the well-known rock town Tiské stěny, Děčínský Sněžník, the scenic waterfalls on the Dolnožlebský stream, the Labská stráň with the stunning Belveder viewpoint, the Růženka observation tower in Růžová, the Srbská Kamenice nature trail, Pavlínino Valley, Trpasličí skála, the menhirs of Chřibská Kamenice, and the nature trail and Elbe Canyon National Natural Monument near Děčín. The protected area also expands around Mikulášovice and Krásná Lípa, which include observation towers like Vlčí hora and Tanečnice.