Bohemian Switzerland
A national park of dramatic sandstone rock formations and gorges in the north - crowned by the great natural arch of Pravcicka brana.
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Bohemian Switzerland is a national park of wild sandstone country on the German border, where the Elbe and its tributaries have carved deep gorges, pillars and mesas from the rock, cloaked in forest. Its crown is Pravcicka brana, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe, a soaring rock span with a view over a sea of forested pinnacles.
What you actually see
- Pravcicka brana - the great natural sandstone arch, the largest in Europe.
- The gorges - the deep river canyons, some explored by boat.
- The rock formations - the pillars, mesas and pinnacles of the sandstone.
- The forest trails - the hikes through the wooded rock landscape.
When to go
Late spring to autumn for the trails, boat trips and forest; autumn adds colour. Some areas have been affected by wildfire, so check current access.
Honest expectations
The famous arch is reached by a fair uphill hike, and you can no longer walk on the arch itself to protect it. Parts of the park were damaged by a major wildfire, so check what is open. It is a couple of hours from Prague.
Nearby
It continues across the border as Saxon Switzerland in Germany; Decin and the Elbe are nearby.
What to pack for Bohemian Switzerland
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
