Are you planning a trip to Prague and wondering if there are any mountains nearby? The answer is yes!
While Prague itself is not in a mountainous region, there are several beautiful ranges within driving distance. Let’s take a closer look.
Říp Mountain
Říp Mountain, located just 50 kilometers from Prague, is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. This iconic mountain has been a symbol of Czech identity for centuries and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Legend has it that the founder of the Czech nation, Forefather Čech, climbed to the top of Říp to survey the land before settling in the area.
Hiking Trails
There are several hiking trails that lead to the summit of Říp Mountain, ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate. The most popular route starts in the village of Krabčice and takes about two hours to complete. Along the way, hikers will pass through dense forests and open meadows before reaching the top.
- Distance: 6 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 320 m
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Krkonoše Mountains
The Krkonoše Mountains are located about 150 kilometers from Prague and are part of the Sudetes mountain range. These majestic peaks are known for their stunning natural beauty and unique ecosystems. The highest peak in the range is Sněžka, which stands at 1,603 meters above sea level.
Skiing and Snowboarding
During the winter months, the Krkonoše Mountains become a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. There are several ski resorts located throughout the region, offering a variety of slopes for all skill levels. The most popular resorts include Špindlerův Mlýn, Harrachov, and Pec pod Sněžkou.
Hiking Trails
In the summer months, the Krkonoše Mountains offer a plethora of hiking trails for visitors to explore. The most popular trail is the Sněžka Trail, which leads hikers to the summit of Sněžka. This trail is challenging but offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Distance: 15 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 m
- Duration: 6-8 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
Bohemian Switzerland National Park
Bohemian Switzerland National Park is located about 130 kilometers from Prague and offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The park is home to several impressive rock formations, including Pravčická brána, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe.
Hiking Trails
There are several hiking trails located throughout Bohemian Switzerland National Park, ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging. One of the most popular trails is the Edmund Gorge Trail, which takes hikers through a narrow canyon with towering rock walls on either side.
- Distance: 3 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 100 m
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
So there you have it – while Prague itself may not be surrounded by mountains, there are several beautiful ranges within driving distance that are worth exploring. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a scenic drive, these mountains offer something for everyone.