Discover the Spots in Bohemian Switzerland That Hold a Special Charm in Summer

Summer is the perfect time to pack your backpack and go exploring. And few corners of the Czech Republic will reward you with as many unforgettable experiences as Bohemian Switzerland. Deep forests, breathtaking viewpoints, refreshing small rivers, and warm evenings spent on a terrace with a panoramic view all await you here. Simply choose your route and set off on an adventure. Whether you are heading out for a day trip, a weekend with friends, or a family holiday, this summer you will have plenty of stories to tell. We bring you a selection of places that boast a truly unique atmosphere during the summer season – whether you are looking for tranquility, stunning views, activities for children, or a proper mountain hike. Let the summer begin!

Tiské stěny and Ostrov

From the summit of Děčínský Sněžník, enjoy a ride down to Ostrov. You can do it by bike or by car – and in the winter season, even on cross-country skis or sledges – and it is quite a ride! The contrast in altitude (Ostrov lies roughly 300 metres lower than the peak of Děčínský Sněžník) makes for a fascinating experience. While the wind on Sněžník might nearly blow you away even in the height of summer, down in the Ostrov hollow, you will feel as if you are tucked up in a warm blanket of forest. In summer, there is wonderful swimming here, the surrounding rocks are usually dotted with climbing adventurers, and you can watch them right from the terrace of Hotel Ostrov. The hotel boasts excellent cuisine and a crisp craft beer brewed specifically for them by the Falkenštejn brewery in Krásná Lípa.

Krásná Lípa and Surroundings

Krásná Lípa is another destination you simply cannot afford to miss during your stay in Bohemian Switzerland. Firstly, this is where we are based, and we would love to welcome you to our tourist information centre on the main square (infocentrum na náměstí). We will shower you with ideas for further trips, offer the most original souvenirs from regional producers, and keep your children entertained with an interactive exhibition. Secondly, right next door stands the aforementioned Falkenštejn brewery, where they will take the best gastronomic care of you and pour you world-class beer. And thirdly, it is simply beautiful here. Aside from our own apartments right inside the Bohemian Switzerland House (Dům Českého Švýcarska), you can stay at several excellent establishments: the luxurious resort Hotel Lípa, relaxed accommodation at Penzion Na Bělidle, the stylish Apartmány Stará Škola, or the apartments at Café Nostalgie. From here, you can set off on a completely different trip every single day. For instance, through the shady and refreshing valley of the Křinice river, to see the traditional timber-framed houses (podstávkové domy) and unique local culture in Doubice, for a swim at the Kyjovská přehrada reservoir, to the Lučni bar (Meadow Bar) in Kamenná Horka, or along the Köglerova naučná stezka (Kögler’s educational trail) to Vlčí hora and some fragrant shopping at Nobilis Tilia.

Vysoká Lípa and Šaunštejn castle

Southwest of Krásná Lípa lies another Lípa with a capital L: Vysoká Lípa. If you love rolling hills and green meadows, this is your place in Bohemian Switzerland. The surrounding forests are brightened by an abundance of deciduous trees, so in autumn, the landscape plays with shades of yellow and reddish-brown. To the north of Vysoká Lípa, you will stumble upon Šaunštejn, the remnants of a rock castle, where you climb up ladders to the very tops of sandstone towers. You can manage it even with children, provided you exercise a bit of caution and discipline, of course. At the top, there are metal platforms and railings, offering adrenaline within reasonable limits. After all that adventure, you can reward yourself at the Hotel Kortus restaurant, for instance.

Dolský mlýn, Mezná

South of Vysoká Lípa, you can run down into a narrow ravine where the Kamenice river winds through the landscape. Tucked away here for centuries is the famous Dolský mlýn mill, a firm favourite of filmmakers. The ruins of this authentic mill, steeped in an interesting and turbulent history dating back to the early modern era, are a popular walking destination for everyone staying in Mezná, perhaps in one of the accommodation options at Resort Mezná.

Jetřichovické skály (Jetřichovice Rocks)

This area, formerly known as the Hinterland (Zadní země), is probably the second most famous spot in Bohemian Switzerland after Pravčická Gate – and entirely rightfully so. Tourism here has been developing since the beginning of the 19th century, heavily supported by the noble Kinsky family, who commissioned the famous Jetřichovické vyhlídky (Jetřichovice viewpoints) and the paths leading to them. The loop around Mariina skála (Mary’s Rock), Vilemínina stěna (Wilhelmina’s Wall), and Rudolfův kámen (Rudolf’s Stone) is an absolute must for all Bohemian Switzerland beginners.
Accommodation is available at every turn, but given the popularity of this location, we highly recommend not travelling blindly without a booking. However, if you do want to try your luck, you could test the waters at Hotel Bellevue or perhaps Wellness Hotel Zámeček. And for true connoisseurs, there is the historic Ozdravovna sanatorium lodge. From July onwards, you can explore the Jetřichovické vyhlídky viewpoints in a fun and adventurous way thanks to the new mobile app Objevuj České Švýcarsko (Discover Bohemian Switzerland).

Článek vznikl v rámci projektu „Marketingové aktivity na podporu turismu v Českém Švýcarsku“ realizovaného za přispění prostředků státního rozpočtu České republiky z programu Ministerstva pro místní rozvoj.