Prachov Rocks: Walking Among Sandstone Cliffs In Czechia
The Prachov Rocks is one of the most beautiful natural areas in the Czech Republic, located near the town of Jicin in the Bohemian Paradise. This place is famous for its impressive sandstone formations, narrow gorges, and steep cliffs that rise up to tens of meters high.
Although I had visited the Adršpach Rocks the day before, I liked the Prachov Rocks even more. It was quieter here, without large crowds, so I could stop, look around and fully enjoy the views. In this guide, you will find not only what makes the sandstone cliffs of Prachov special, but also tips on how to get there, which routes to take, and what sights to see along the trails.
History Of The Prachov Rocks
The Prachov Rocks are a sandstone formation that began taking shape when much of today’s Czech Republic lay beneath the sea. Over millions of years, nature carved the landscape into the tall stone walls, narrow crevices, rock towers, and valleys we see now.
Archaeological finds show people lived here thousands of years ago. On the hill of Starý Hrádek, researchers uncovered Bronze Age artifacts, evidence of an ancient settlement. Later, Celts arrived, and Slavic tribes turned the rocks into a natural fortress. The steep walls gave them a shield against enemies.
In the Middle Ages, the Prachov Rocks gained even more strategic importance. Historical sources describe how locals hid in the stone labyrinths during wars and built simple fortifications among the cliffs. Scorch marks still scar several rocks, silent reminders of old battles.
The 19th century brought a different kind of discovery. Travelers and artists, enchanted by wild landscapes, explored the area. During the Romantic era, they laid down the first paths and stairways and built viewpoints. Some viewpoints still carry the names of the visiting groups that inspired them, such as the choral society Hlahol.
By the early 20th century, growing crowds of tourists pushed for better infrastructure. Builders added rest houses and extended hiking routes. In 1933, authorities declared the Prachov Rocks, including their sandstone cliffs, a nature reserve — a key step in protecting the fragile landscape from overuse.
Today, the rocks form part of the protected Bohemian Paradise. They keep their wild beauty yet welcome visitors. Walking among the stone towers, you sense both nature’s artistry and the presence of history. Here, ancient settlements, medieval defenses, and modern tourism all come together.
Trails In The Prachov Rocks
The area offers several marked trails in different colors, each varying in length and difficulty.
Yellow Trail (~1.5 km)
This is the shortest and easiest route, suitable for a quick visit or families with children. The trail starts at the main entrance and quickly leads into the sandstone labyrinth. Although it is not very long, you can still see several of the most notable sights of the Prachov Rocks along the way.
On the Yellow Trail, you will pass through Mouse Hole (Myší díra) – a narrow passageway that is one of the most popular spots in the park. The route then climbs up to the viewpoint Vyhlídka Českého ráje, which offers one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Bohemian Paradise.
The return route leads through the so-called Emperor’s Passage (Císařská chodba), a wide corridor between sandstone walls that makes for a comfortable descent. The Yellow Trail is the best choice if you want to see the main highlights in a short amount of time without much physical effort.
Red Trail (~2.5 km)
The Red Trail is a medium-length route, making it an excellent choice for those who want to explore more of the rock complex without committing to the longest hike. The trail starts at the main entrance and first leads through Green Gorge (Zelená rokle), where the rocks rise tightly around the narrow path.
Along the route you’ll encounter several main viewpoints, including Vyhlídka Českého ráje and Vyhlídka Míru. From these spots you can admire not only the sandstone towers themselves but also the surrounding forests and valleys. The trail winds through passages of varying widths, so the scenery constantly changes.
The return follows Emperor’s Passage, the same corridor as on the Yellow Trail. However, the Red Trail is longer and includes more ascents and stairways, and therefore requires slightly more stamina. Still, it is an excellent compromise between a short walk and a longer hike.
Green Trail (~3.5 km)
The Green Trail is the longest, and in my opinion also the most beautiful in every sense. I started this trail very early in the morning – around seven o’clock. At that time there was no one at the entrance, so I started the hike in complete silence and enjoyed every moment.
The first section of the trail winds through narrow passages – in some places, it is necessary to walk almost pressed against the rock wall. Climbing the stone stairs, you reach the first viewpoints, which offer impressive sights of the sandstone towers and the vast stone labyrinth below. This leads to the Pechova Viewpoint, from where you can admire the breathtaking panorama of the winding gorges and the dramatic landscape of Bohemian Paradise.
The trail then continues along the Masaryk Path – here it is wider, with more light, but soon you again have to squeeze through narrower sections. In my opinion, this contrast between open panoramas and tight passages is what makes the route truly special.
Although the trail isn’t very long, I spent about two and a half hours walking it. I stopped at almost every point, as each view looked different from the last. The morning quiet made the experience even more magical, making even the simplest narrow crevice or staircase climb feel like a discovery. I think this kind of walk really lets you feel the true atmosphere of Prachov.
Blue Trail
The Prachov Rocks also feature a specially marked Blue Trail designed for visitors with strollers or wheelchairs. It starts at the main entrance and follows a forest path leading to several viewpoints. The path is relatively even, with no steep stairways, making it fairly easy to navigate with a stroller.
This route leads to places such as the Pechova Viewpoint, Českého ráje Vyhlídka, Vyhlídka Míru, Hlaholská Vyhlídka, and Křížkovský Vyhlídka. The route is not very long, but with stops at the viewpoints it takes about 1–1.5 hours to complete.
Best Time To Visit The Prachov Cliffs
The Prachov Rocks are open year-round, but each season has its own advantages. In summer, the area sees the highest number of visitors – especially on weekends and during holiday months. If you plan to come during this time, it is best to arrive early in the morning, before the crowds.
Spring and autumn are often considered the most pleasant times to visit. In spring, everything turns green, the air is fresh, and there are still relatively few people. In autumn, the rocks are adorned with vibrant colors, and the atmosphere becomes more peaceful and inviting. Both seasons allow you to enjoy nature at a slower pace and spend more time at the viewpoints without the rush.
The rocks are also open in winter, but the trails can be slippery. Still, it’s a special time – the snow-covered towers look stunning, and there are almost no tourists. It’s an opportunity to experience nature in a completely different way.
Each season has its charm, but from my own experience I can say the real magic happens early in the morning. The trails were empty, the silence was complete, and that walk felt perfect.
Opening Hours & Tickets
The Prachov Rocks are open all year round, but opening hours vary by season. From June to October the gates open at 8:00 and close at 18:00, while during the rest of the year the park is open from 9:00 to 17:00.
Tickets are sold at the entrance and are valid for the whole day. During the main season (June–September) an adult ticket costs €6 (150 CZK), while in the off-season it is €4 (100 CZK).
How To Get To The Prachov Rocks
Prachov, with its impressive cliffs, lies in the Bohemian Paradise region, close to the town of Jicin and about 100 km from Prague. Their central location makes them an easy day trip from the capital or nearby towns.
By Car
The most convenient way to reach the Prachov Rocks is by car. The distance from Prague is about 100 km, a drive of about 1.5–2 hours. Next to the entrance you will find the main car park. Parking for cars costs around €4 (100 CZK). In summer the lot fills up quickly, so it is worth arriving early in the morning while there are still free spaces.
By Train
If you decide to travel by train, first head to Turnov or Jicin and from there continue to Jinolice station. From there it’s about a 3.5 km walk along the marked green tourist trail that passes the Jinolice Lakes. This section is easy and very scenic – the path winds through the forest, opens up to lake shores, and as you approach Prachov it climbs uphill, where the sandstone towers gradually come into view. However, this option takes more time, so it’s best suited for visitors planning to spend more than a day in the Bohemian Paradise. You can check train times and buy tickets here.
By Bus
From Jicin, local bus No. 412 runs to the Prachov Rocks. Get off at the stop Holín, odb. Prachovské skály, which is located right by the main entrance. The ride takes just a few minutes, and once you get off you are immediately at the ticket office and the start of the trails.
Discover: Prachov Rocks Tour With Guide.
Where To Stay Near The Rocks
Although the area around the Prachov Rocks is small, there are plenty of accommodation options nearby. From simple guesthouses to family-run hotels, both in the villages close to the park and in Jicin. The best choice is to stay as close as possible to the park entrance if you want to start your hikes early in the morning.
- Turistická chata Prachov – a historic lodge located right inside the park, just a few steps from the trails. A convenient spot for those who want to start their hikes straight from the doorstep.
- Penzion Prachov – a guesthouse located a couple of kilometers from the entrance. A good option for budget travelers or anyone who wants to stay close to the park.
- Hotel Pod Šikmou věží – a small hotel with a restaurant, suitable for those who want more comfort while still staying close to nature.
- Penzion U Jindry – a charming guesthouse I stayed at myself in Železnice, about 9 km from the Prachov Rocks. The rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, perfect for a short stay near the rocks. What really stood out were the hosts – incredibly friendly and welcoming, always ready to help even with limited English.
Where To Eat Near The Prachov Rocks
Since the village of Prachov is small, there aren’t many restaurants, but a few options will cover your needs.
- Restaurant at Turistická chata Prachov – located next to the main entrance to the trails, serving simple Czech cuisine such as soups, hot dishes, and snacks.
- A kiosk at the entrance, Pelíškův Kiosek Prachov, offers drinks, ice cream, and quick snacks. A good option for a fast bite after a hike.
- Restaurace Pod Šikmou věží – a traditional Czech restaurant just a few minutes’ drive from the rocks. Perfect if you are looking for a hearty meal in a quiet setting.
FAQs About Prachov Rocks
Where are the Prachov Rocks?
They’re in the Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) nature reserve, about 100 km northeast of Prague, close to the town of Jicin.
How much is the entrance fee?
In high season (June–September) an adult ticket costs €6 (150 CZK). In low season (October–May) the price is €4 (100 CZK). Children, students, and families get discounted tickets.
Can I pay by card?
Yes, both entrance tickets and parking fees can be paid by card.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash. Be prepared for narrow stairways that can be tricky with bigger pets.
How long does a visit take?
The shortest trail (Yellow) takes about 45 minutes. To see more sights and explore additional trails, plan 2–3 hours. With photo stops and extra exploration, half a day can pass by quite quickly.
Is there food or water inside?
No cafes inside the rock area. There’s a restaurant Turistická chata Prachov and a kiosk by the entrance. Bring water, especially in summer.
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Have you visited the Prachov Rocks and seen these stunning cliffs? Share your experience in the comments!
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Hi, I’m Evelina, a travel enthusiast who loves nature, peace, and authentic places. I cherish the freedom to explore and learn with each adventure, whether it’s hiking trails, stunning beaches, natural parks, unique architecture, or rich cultural heritage. I hope my experiences inspire you to embark on your own journeys!
