Kyjov valley

Kyjovské údolí, which lies in the vicinity of the village Kyjov u Krásná Lípy, is one of the most picturesque parts of the National Park Czech Switzerland. It offers visitors a wide range of experiences – from easy walks to more demanding hikes or cycling trips. Whether you head here with your children, friends or just for a trip into nature, there is something for everyone.

Tips for trips:

1. Family circuit around Kyjovský hrádek
Ideal route for families with children. It leads along marked trails, partly on stairs and ladders between sandstone rocks. It offers beautiful views and the opportunity to learn about the history of the rock castle.

2. Long-distance hike along the Křinice
For more experienced hikers, we recommend the route along the Křinice River, which takes you deep into a quiet valley and can continue across the border into Germany. You can return via Zadní Jetřichovice – ideally with a headlamp if the trip extends into the evening.

3. Winter route to the ice waterfalls
In winter, the Kyjov valley turns into an ice kingdom. In freezing weather, natural icefalls are formed at the Wolf Creek – the most famous are Opona, Varhany, Betlém or Velký Sloup. Sturdy footwear and extra caution are recommended – some sections can be slippery and access to the rocks is not maintained.

Cave of the Fairies

One of the most magical places in the Kyjov valley is the Cave of the Fairies – a natural rock overhang where in winter delicate icicles and ice curtains reminiscent of fairy-tale decorations form. The place is at its most beautiful during the longer frosty periods, when the walls of the cave become covered with a glistening veil of ice.

GPS coordinates: 50.9154086N, 14.4433250E – show map

The cave is located about 2.5 km along the red trail from the village of Brtníky towards the Brtnice Icefalls. The most common starting points are:

  • Kyjov – a longer but picturesque route over Vlčí potok (approx. 6-7 km)
  • Brtníky (train stop) – shorter winter route directly to the Cave of Fairies and further to the icefalls

Recommendation:
We recommend wearing sturdy winter shoes. The trail is not officially maintained and can be challenging in places in snow or ice. The site is in a protected area – please be considerate, do not enter the cave or destroy the icicles. You will be rewarded with a quiet winter experience to remember.

Nature and observation

The Kyjov valley is home to many protected species. If you are lucky, you can see the river kingfisher, otter or rare mosses. The surrounding rocks offer beautiful views – short climbs will reward you with quiet panoramas without crowds.

Kyjov Dam

In the vicinity of Kyjov, there is the Kyjovská dam – a popular natural swimming pool and a pleasant place to relax during the summer days. It lies about 1 km northeast of Kyjov, accessible on foot, by bike and by car.

The dam is surrounded by forest, so it offers pleasant shade and a peaceful environment. In the summer season it is suitable for swimming – the bottom is sandy, the entrance to the water is gradual and suitable for children. There is also a grassy beach by the dam, seating and parking nearby.

GPS coordinates: 50.9101772N, 14.5080844E
Access: from Krásná Lípa on foot along the yellow tourist trail or by bicycle along cycle route no. 3013. From Kyjov it is approximately 10 minutes on foot.

Tip: The dam is an ideal place to refresh yourself after a hike through the Kyjov valley or as a destination for a shorter trip with children. In the surroundings you will also find several nature trails and benches to relax on

Cycling

Marked cycle paths pass through the valley. Thanks to its pleasant microclimate, the Kyjov Valley is one of the few places where you can really take a break from the heat in summer by bike. The cycle route will take you all the way to the German border – you can return via the Czech Road or via Vlčí Hora and Sněžná, from where you can easily reach Kyjov or Krásná Lípa.

And a few more tips:

  • With children: yes, there is a paved path through the heart of the Kyjov valley suitable for strollers and bicycles. There is also an interactive All Senses Nature Trail in the valley.
  • Dogs: yes, on a leash
  • How to get here: by car, parking in Kyjov is possible, but in the summer season the capacity is quickly exhausted – we recommend arriving early in the morning. From Krásná Lípa you can also get here by bus BUS 434. By train only to Krásná Lípa.