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Pravcicka brana

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Pravčická brána is the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe and the iconic symbol of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park. This massive geological monument is home to a span of 26.5 meters at its base and a clear height of 16 meters, making it a unique natural wonder of the continent. The arch was formed over millions of years by the selective erosion of Cretaceous sandstone, where harder layers remained while the softer parts were weathered away. Adjacent to the arch is the 'Sokolí hnízdo' (Falcon's Nest) chateau, a romantic alpine-style building constructed in 1881 by Prince Edmund of Clary-Aldringen to serve as a hotel. Since 1980, walking across the top of the arch has been strictly prohibited to prevent structural damage and ensure its preservation, but several nearby rock terraces offer spectacular views of the formation. Pravčická brána gained international fame as a filming location for 'The Chronicles of Narnia'. Visitors can reach the site via scenic hiking trails from Hřensko or Mezní Louka, winding through deep gorges and dense forests. It has been protected as a National Nature Monument since 1963 and remains one of the most visited natural attractions in the Czech Republic.

Location: Czech Republic
Top sights: Pravčická brána · NPP Pravčická brána · Křížový kámen
Nearby: Děčín (12 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	-2	-1	3	8	13	17	19	19	14	9	4	0
Rain mm	63	44	51	38	66	75	89	83	59	56	56	56

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The natural sandstone arch is freely accessible outdoors within Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Reaching it requires a hike on marked trails; icy conditions are possible in winter.

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Typical hours

Access to the arch is generally unrestricted, but the park gate operates seasonally. Parking is typically available from 8 AM to 6 PM. Check the national park's current opening times in advance.

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Photography

Photography is allowed and the landscape gives spectacular shots. Tripods and drones require a permit from the park administration; drones are often prohibited.

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Time needed

Allow at least one hour for the round-trip walk from the parking lot to the arch. With stops for photos and a rest, budget about two hours total.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with a hike through the Edmund Gorge (Tiché soutěsky) or a trip to Prebischtor. The nearby town of Hřensko has dining and accommodation.

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Getting there

Drive to Hřensko, then walk or take a bus to the parking lot. A large paid parking area is at the national park entrance. Local buses run from Děčín.

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Insider tip

Arrive early in the morning to experience the arch without crowds. Bring plenty of water and sturdy footwear - the path is rocky and uneven.

Geography

Coordinates

50.88420, 14.28140

Facts

The arch of Pravčická brána spans 26.5 meters and stands 16 meters high.
The Sokolí hnízdo chateau was built in 1881 specifically for tourist purposes.
Access to the top of the arch was closed in 1980 due to stability concerns.
The arch's width ranges between 7 and 8 meters at its widest point.
The formation consists of sandstone deposited 90 million years ago.
It is located only 3 kilometers from the Czech-German international border.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bohemian Switzerland2 km · NEExplore →

Hrensko3 km · WExplore →

Bohemian Switzerland National Park4 km · EExplore →

Saxon Switzerland8 km · NWExplore →

📍Sebnitz9 km · NExplore →

Schmilka / Bad Schandau10 km · WExplore →

Děčín12 km · SExplore →

Saxon Switzerland National Park14 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Pravcicka brana (10)

Pravčická brána

Largest natural sandstone arch in Europe, landmark of Bohemian Switzerland, Czechia.

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NPP Pravčická brána

National nature reserve protecting the arch and surrounding sandstone landscape.

Křížový kámen

Viewpoint with a cross on a rock, overlooking valleys of Bohemian Switzerland.

Horní vyhlídka Edmundova kamene

Upper viewpoint at Edmund Gorge, view of the rock face.

Dolní vyhlídka Edmundova kamene

Lower viewpoint in Edmund Gorge, close to the stream.

Czech Brethren Cave

Cave in Bohemian Switzerland, used by the Czech Brethren.

Webergrotte

Cave in Germany, part of the Saxon Switzerland sandstone area.

Snake head

Rock formation in Bohemian Switzerland resembling a snake head.

Katzenstein

Mountain in Germany, 337 m, in Saxon Switzerland.

Großer Winterberg

Mountain in eastern Germany, 556 m, with views of the Elbe valley.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you walk across the top of Pravčická brána?

No, walking on the arch has been prohibited since 1982 for protection reasons.

How big is Pravčická brána?

It is Europe's largest sandstone arch, 16 m high with a 26 m span.

Do you have to pay an entrance fee?

Yes, there is a fee to enter the area and the viewpoints.

What is the building right next to it?

The 'Sokolí hnízdo' (Falcon's Nest) chateau, now a restaurant and museum.

How long is the hike there?

From Hřensko, the uphill hike takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Pravcicka brana: where is it located?

Pravcicka brana is located in Czech Republic.

Pravcicka brana: what is there to see?

Highlights include Pravčická brána, NPP Pravčická brána, Křížový kámen.

Pravcicka brana: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Pravcicka brana: why is it worth visiting?

Pravčická brána is the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe and the iconic symbol of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park.

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