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Broumov Highlands
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Mountain
The Broumov Highlands, located in northeastern Bohemia along the border with Poland, are part of the Central Sudetes mountain range. This region is internationally renowned for its spectacular 'rock cities' made of Cretaceous sandstone, most notably the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks. The landscape is characterized by deep ravines, high rock towers, and distinctive table mountains like Ostaš, created through millions of years of erosion. The highest peak of the range is Královecký Špičák, reaching an elevation of 881 meters. Cultural history in the area is deeply intertwined with the Benedictine Abbey in Broumov, which influenced the construction of several Baroque churches scattered throughout the surrounding countryside. The entire region is protected within the Broumovsko Landscape Protected Area, ensuring the preservation of sensitive sandstone ecosystems and nesting sites for rare birds such as the peregrine falcon. For outdoor enthusiasts, the highlands offer a vast network of hiking trails and some of the best traditional sandstone climbing opportunities in Europe.
- Location: Czech Republic
- Top sights: Muzeum Broumovska · Městské Divadlo · Muzeum Broumovského Pivovaru
- Nearby: Adršpach (13 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 | -4 | -2 | 1 | 7 | 12 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 13 | 7 | 3 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 56 | 46 | 51 | 43 | 78 | 85 | 92 | 83 | 67 | 56 | 52 | 54 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Travelers typically access these striking sandstone areas via well-maintained hiking paths originating from nearby towns in Northeast Bohemia. The rock cities themselves are best explored on foot using the extensive regional trail network.
Best season
The good season for hiking among the volcanic elevations and sandstone rocks is typically from late spring to early autumn. Winter conditions often bring ice and snow, making the narrow rock passages potentially slippery and treacherous.
Terrain & paths
Navigating the rock cities involves walking on uneven sandy paths, climbing wooden or stone stairs, and passing through narrow natural corridors. The terrain is generally hilly with steep ascents leading up to various panoramic viewpoints.
What to bring
Sturdy hiking shoes with excellent grip are highly recommended for safely traversing the steep steps and rocky surfaces. It is also wise to carry enough drinking water, sun protection, and a reliable map of the extensive trail system.
Parking
Most visitors typically park their cars in designated lots near the main trailheads or in adjacent villages serving as entry points. These parking areas generally require a moderate fee and fill up quickly during peak summer weekends.
Safety
Hikers should proceed carefully near sheer drops and unfenced lookout points scattered throughout the prominent rock formations. Keeping a close eye on changing weather is important, as rain can make the sandstone surfaces exceptionally slippery.
Time needed
Exploring a section of the rock cities and enjoying the dramatic volcanic landscapes generally requires at least half a day. Thoroughly discovering the wider highland region often takes a full day or multiple days of extensive hiking.
Geography
Facts
- The highest peak is Královecký Špičák at 881 meters above sea level.
- Adršpach-Teplice Rocks contain the 'Lions Cage' and 'Great Waterfall' rock formations.
- The Broumov Monastery houses a unique 17th-century copy of the Shroud of Turin.
- The Broumov Walls feature a long sandstone ridge with bizarre rock formations.
- Table mountain Ostaš reaches an elevation of 700 meters and offers two labyrinths.
- The region is a major European destination for traditional crack climbing in sandstone.
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
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Broumov Highlands (8)
Muzeum Broumovského Pivovaru🏛 museum
A museum dedicated to the history of brewing in the Broumov region.
🌐 pivovarbroumov.cz🕒 Sep-Mai Mo-Fr 10:00,12:00, Jun Mo-Fr 10:00,12:00, Sa 11:00;
Farma Wenet🎡 recreation
A small zoo in the Broumov Highlands featuring various animal species.
🌐 wenet.cz🕒 Mar-Aug: Mo-Su 10:00-17:00; Sep-Feb: Mo-Su 10:00-14:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Broumov Highlands?
A region in NE Bohemia famous for bizarre sandstone formations.
What are the Adršpach-Teplice rocks?
One of the largest and most spectacular rock cities in Central Europe.
What can you visit in Broumov?
The monumental Benedictine monastery in Broumov.
Is hiking there demanding?
The paths are well-maintained but often involve many stairs.
How is the weather among the rocks?
In the rock crevices, it stays pleasantly cool even in summer.
Broumov Highlands: where is it located?
Broumov Highlands is located in Czech Republic.
Broumov Highlands: what is there to see?
Highlights include Muzeum Broumovska, Městské Divadlo, Muzeum Broumovského Pivovaru.
Broumov Highlands: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Broumov Highlands: why is it worth visiting?
The Broumov Highlands, located in northeastern Bohemia along the border with Poland, are part of the Central Sudetes mountain range.
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