This mountain resort in the Krkonoše Mountains has slopes for beginners and expert skiers alike. In summer, hikers explore marked trails through alpine meadows.
Špindlerův Mlýn sits in the Giant Mountains of Czechia, at the source of the Elbe River. In winter, you can ski down the World Cup slalom course at Svatý Petr or glide through illuminated evening slopes. During summer, you can hike to the rushing Elbe Falls or cycle along the Labská Dam's shoreline. The town left its mark on literature too - Franz Kafka wrote parts of "The Castle" here in 1922, drawing inspiration from the mountain setting.
Winter Sports in Špindlerův Mlýn
You can access 28 kilometers of slopes from both sides of the river valley, with lifts reaching elevations between 702 and 1,235 meters. The resort's snow-making system - the largest in the Czech Republic - keeps the slopes covered typically from early December to mid-April. For a different perspective on the mountains, try night skiing on illuminated runs from 18:00 to 21:00.
Mountain Areas and Trails
At Medvědín, beginners and families can practice on 4-kilometer forest runs. Advanced skiers head to Svatý Petr for its steep red and black slopes, including the same course used for World Cup slalom competitions. Cross-country skiers can explore 85 kilometers of groomed trails. Snowboarders and freestyle skiers gather at the Burton Snowpark in Svatý Petr, where you'll find a competition-grade half-pipe.
Summer Activities
The mountain paths transform into hiking and biking routes when the snow melts. You can follow over 100 kilometers of marked trails through the Giant Mountains, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The Elbe Falls drop 30 meters down the mountainside, with the strongest flow during spring snowmelt. You can also walk or cycle around the Labská Dam, built in 1914, which creates a 40-hectare lake.
Practical Information
The ski resort operates from 8:30 to 16:00 during winter season. You'll find three parking areas with more than 900 free spaces. Regular ski buses connect the town center to the slopes. The town has room for up to 10,000 visitors across its hotels and holiday apartments.
Historical Background
The current town formed in the early 20th century when several Elbe valley settlements merged into one. You can still see the 1802 Church of Saints Peter and Paul and the concrete arch bridge from 1911. Many original guesthouses from the early 1900s remain, now updated inside while keeping their traditional exterior designs.
