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Bohemian Forest
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The Bohemian Forest, known as Šumava in Czech, is an extensive low mountain range along the border of the Czech Republic, Germany, and Austria, forming the largest contiguous forest in Central Europe. As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and National Park, it protects a unique landscape of primeval forests, mysterious peat bogs, and crystal-clear glacial lakes like Černé jezero (Black Lake) and Čertovo jezero (Devil's Lake). The region is a mosaic of dense spruce, fir, and beech forests, interspersed with gentle hills and rugged peaks such as Plechý. Šumava is not only a refuge for rare animal species like the lynx and capercaillie but also an important water reservoir, being the source of the Vltava River, among others. The area is well-developed with a dense network of hiking and cycling trails that lead visitors to its most beautiful natural treasures, earning it the name 'the Green Roof of Europe'.
- Location: Czech Republic
- Top sights: Studená hora · Kaple svatého Jana Nepomuckého · Lovčí skála
- Nearby: Kvilda (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -2 | 2 | 7 | 12 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 13 | 8 | 3 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 66 | 49 | 59 | 50 | 90 | 105 | 102 | 103 | 68 | 60 | 54 | 58 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Numerous trailheads are scattered along the border regions, typically reached via regional train lines or by driving through quiet foothill communities towards the high forest ridges.
Best season
Late spring to early autumn generally has the most favorable hiking climate, allowing visitors to deeply explore the extensive contiguous woodland without facing snow disruptions.
Terrain & paths
The topography consists of sweeping mountain ranges blanketed by thick trees, interspersed with moderate slopes and occasional rugged sections demanding sustained physical exertion.
What to bring
Hikers should always pack layered outdoor clothing, a reliable map or GPS device, and enough hydration supplies to support them during long stretches deep in the secluded woods.
Parking
Many official trailheads and local village squares provide designated areas where visitors can park securely before disappearing into the sprawling central European mountain wilderness.
Safety
Venturing far off the officially marked pathways poses a genuine risk of losing orientation in the remarkably uniform tree cover, making compass or GPS navigation highly recommended.
Time needed
Day hikes typically last anywhere from four to eight hours, but the immense scale of these contiguous border woodlands naturally invites much longer, rewarding multi-day trekking holidays.
Geography
Facts
- Area of 680 square kilometers
- Established in 1991
- Highest peak is Plechý (1,378 m)
- UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Bohemian Forest (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest peak in Šumava?
On the Czech side, Plechý (Plöckenstein) is the highest peak at 1378 meters.
Are there glacial lakes in Šumava?
Yes, there are five Czech glacial lakes, including Black Lake and Devil's Lake.
Can you visit the source of the Vltava river?
Yes, the Vltava source near Kvilda is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists.
What is the Lipno treetop walk?
A spectacular walk in the treetops with a 40-meter high observation tower and a slide.
Are wolves present in the national park?
Yes, wolves have returned to Šumava. There is a visitor center in Srní for wolf observation.
Bohemian Forest: where is it located?
Bohemian Forest is located in Czech Republic.
Bohemian Forest: what is there to see?
Highlights include Studená hora, Kaple svatého Jana Nepomuckého, Lovčí skála.
Bohemian Forest: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Bohemian Forest: why is it worth visiting?
The Bohemian Forest, known as Šumava in Czech, is an extensive low mountain range along the border of the Czech Republic, Germany, and Austria, forming the largest contiguous forest in Central Europe.
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