Dramatic sandstone formations in northern Czechia, shaped by water and wind over millions of years. A climbing and hiking area within Krkonoše National Park.
In northern Czech Republic, towering sandstone cliffs rise 70 meters above narrow gorges at Adršpach-Teplice Rocks. You'll walk under massive stone arches like the Giant Gate, pass the thundering Main Waterfall, and see rock formations shaped like the Polar Bear and Mayor's Chair. The 17-square-kilometer nature reserve has two sections - Adršpach and Teplice - connected by the 4-kilometer Wolf Gorge.
The main 3.5-kilometer trail takes you between tall rock pillars covered in yellow moss. Start at the lake, where early morning visitors often see low-hanging mist around the rocks. You'll cross wooden walkways and climb occasional steep stairs, but most people with basic fitness can complete the trail. Plan about three hours for the full circuit, including photo stops and breaks.
The Teplice section has continuous rock walls up to 70 meters high, different from Adršpach's separate towers. Follow the blue-marked 6-kilometer loop through narrow passages between the cliffs. Look for named formations like the Polar Bear, the Crown Rock, and Krakonoš's Toothpick. In one area called Siberia, the deep gorges are so cold that snow sometimes stays until summer.
Peregrine falcons nest in the high cliffs, making this one of Europe's major breeding sites. The park closes several climbing and hiking zones during nesting season to protect the birds. You can't fly drones here to avoid disturbing the wildlife. Watch for woodpeckers, owls, and small mammals like pine martens throughout the reserve.
Visit year-round between 8 AM and 6 PM (April-October) or 8 AM to 4 PM (November-March). Book tickets online to pay less and skip the entrance lines - select your entry date and approximate time when booking. If you use a stroller or have limited mobility, you can access the first part of Adršpach from the entrance to the small waterfall.
Find the reserve near the Polish border, 33 kilometers from Wałbrzych. Take regular trains to both Adršpach and Teplice from Trutnov and Wrocław. From Prague, drive 2.5-3 hours. Park in the main lot for 150 CZK per day. Local trains (szynobusy) connect the two sections of the park throughout the day.
Tell us about it! Is it place worth visiting, are you coming back?
