8 Best Hiking Trails in Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj): Rock Towns, Castles and Lakes Two Hours from Prague

Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) is a UNESCO geopark located between Turnov, Jičín and Mnichovo Hradiště, drawing visitors with its sandstone rock formations, medieval castles and forest trails. This guide is for anyone coming from Prague for a day trip or a weekend who wants more than just "look at the rocks" — who wants to actually walk a specific route, from an easy stroll suitable for kids to a multi-day trek along the "Golden Trail." All the trails are marked with colored KČT signs, and the easiest way to plan them is via mapy.cz.

Prachovské skály (Prachov Rocks)

The region's most famous rock town lies about 10 km from Jičín, near the village of Prachov. Prachovské skály is the most famous rock formation in the Bohemian Paradise region and, without doubt, a climbers' paradise — this rock town lies less than 10 km northwest of Jičín. Inside, there are two routes to choose from: a short, easy one for those who'd rather avoid steep climbs or are pushing a stroller, and a longer, more challenging one for those who want truly breathtaking views. Be sure to visit the two main lookout points — Vyhlídka na Český ráj and Vyhlídka Míru — from which you can see the "Madonna and Child" rock formation and the silhouette of Trosky Castle. Admission costs just 60 CZK (about €2.20) for adults and 30 CZK for children over 6.

Hrubá Skála (Hruboskalsko) — Circular Trail from Sedmihorky

This rock town near the Hrubá Skála castle hotel (a long way from Prague — you're now in the Liberec Region, in the Turnov area) is known for its peaceful viewpoints without the crowds. A pleasant walk through the rocky landscape near the Sedmihorky spa resort: the route starts from the parking lot by the Sedmihorky resort, then heads south to the Osudov signpost, enters the rocky terrain and ends at the Hrubá Skála castle hotel, from where you can detour to the Mariánská or Zámecká vyhlídka viewpoints. The trail is easy and family-friendly.

Valdštejn Castle — Walk from Sedmihorky Campsite

One of the most atmospheric short trails leads through the forest straight to a Gothic rock castle. The route begins at the Sedmihorky campsite and continues through the forest to Valdštejn Castle; along the way you'll see rock formations and views over the Perch area, and the castle itself, built in Gothic style in the second half of the 13th century, is the oldest castle in the Bohemian Paradise region. There's also an easy there-and-back option of about 7 km from the Hrubá Skála rocks to the castle, with lookout points along the way.

Circular Trail Around Trosky Castle (11 km)

Perfect for those who want to combine iconic ruins with lakes and valleys. This is an 11 km circular trail that starts and ends at the iconic Trosky Castle, passing through the picturesque Podtrosecká and Žehrovka valleys along the shores of several small lakes. The castle itself is two tower ruins perched on volcanic plugs, forming an unmistakable silhouette that's fascinating from both a geological and a photographic standpoint.

The "Golden Trail" in One Day: Trosky — Hrubá Skála — Valdštejn

A classic Bohemian Paradise route for those with just one day to spare. A one-day route along the main section of Bohemian Paradise's "Golden Trail," covering the famous Trosky, Hrubá Skála and Valdštejn castles — you can get there by regional train to Ktová station and walk back to Turnov. The trail is marked in red and passes through the Podtrosecká Valley and the Apolena rocks.

Klokočské skály and Rotštejn Castle

A less touristy rock town near Turnov, with hardly any crowds. A classic walk through the "rock town," starting right outside Turnov and circling the entire picturesque area of Klokočské skály, including a visit to Rotštejn rock castle and Postojná Cave. As another source describes it, Klokočské skály is a quieter rock town with slender spires and pine-lined paths, less touristy and ideal for peaceful climbing and calm forest walks.

Drábské světničky, Příhrazské skály and Mužský Hill

A route for day two or three, once you've covered the main highlights — deeper into the natural part of the reserve, closer to Mnichovo Hradiště. Experienced travelers recommend splitting the region by day: one day for Prachovské skály, another for Hrubá Skála, and a third for Drábské světničky, Příhrazské skály, Valečov and Mužský, staying overnight in a nearby Airbnb cottage. There are fewer tourists here, but you'll find rock fortresses and dwellings carved straight into the sandstone.

Kost Castle and Plakánek Valley

The eastern part of the reserve, closer to Jičín, is known for its Gothic castle on the water and a secluded forest valley. The final day of the classic route follows the famous stretch of the "Golden Trail" between the medieval Kost and Valečov castles, passing through the entire Příhrazské skály area, and before reaching Kost Castle you'll have the chance to see the Humprecht hunting lodge, the folk-architecture village of Vesec, and the mysterious Plakánek Valley. Another well-known architectural landmark lies closer to Jičín — the 14th-century Gothic Kost Castle.

The Big 4-Day Tour (120 km) — For Serious Walkers

If you want to see the entire reserve rather than choosing between areas, there's a multi-day option. Day two explores the central part of Bohemian Paradise, spending most of the time around the Hrubá Skála rocks, with visits to Valdštejn and Hrubá Skála castles and the mysterious rock ruins of Kozlov, and in total, it's a tiring but rewarding continuous trek with three overnight stays, covering nearly 120 km along the region's best trails, passing through almost every rock area and all the major castles and manors. Overnight stops are planned in Sobotka and near Kost Castle.

Getting there: the region's official website is www.cesky-raj.info, it's 91 km from Prague, about an hour's drive, and direct trains run from Prague's Hlavní nádraží to Turnov, the most convenient starting point for the Hrubá Skála rocks and Valdštejn Castle; Prachovské skály and Trosky Castle are easier to reach via Jičín, by bus from Černý Most. Bring comfortable shoes for the stone steps and staircases, water, and at least 100–150 CZK in cash for entry to the rock reserves — and Bohemian Paradise will reveal itself in all its fairy-tale beauty, whether you choose an easy one-hour walk or a four-day march along the "Golden Trail."