The remarkable Jizerské mountain viewpoint of Ořeštník overlooking Hejnice: 7 km

• The town of Hejnice, on the northern side of the Jizerské mountains, has been known as a pilgrimage location for over 900 hundred years. Pilgrims presumably also used the opportunity to climb into the hills and scale the granite rock outcrops that are a feature of the northern slopes. However, the nearest outcrop to Hejnice, the 800m peak of Ořeštník, was inaccessible to all but the best mountaineers. Then, in 1898, the German Mountain Association carved 28 steps up the rock face and installed protective railings and a very large cross.
• Today, this is an iconic peak to capture in the Jizerské range. Those brave enough to scramble up the 28 steps are rewarded with superb view over Hejnice and over the whole northern mountains. The approach route from Hejnice is itself one of the nicest trails in the area, passing through oak groves on the lower slopes and later the beautiful UNESCO listed beech forests, which are filled with massive granite boulders.
• The pilgrimage church in Hejnice, according to legend, dates back to 1211. The Franciscan Order founded a monastery here in 1692 at the invitation of Count František Gallas. The Franciscans ran the monastery for over 250 years, until communist rule saw the site gradually fall into disrepair. Only at the end of the 20th century, with the support of EU funding, did the complex take on a new lease of life as a spiritual centre, offering accommodation and other facilities. The site is free to walk around and there are interesting exhibition areas.
• The approach trail to Ořeštník (which is part of the ‘Via Czechia’ long distance trail, northern section) is not difficult, but the rocky ascent to the summit should only be attempted by those comfortable with some exposure. For refreshments, there are various options in Hejnice, including a restaurant in the monastery. Overlooking the Basilica is a nice café, with a terrace – the Kavárna Hugo.

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Directions

• Starting at the Hejnice train station (where there is free parking and also good bus connections with the rest of the region), join the RED trail heading towards Hejnice Basilika, which is reached in 500m
• From the Basilika, continue on the RED trail for 2.9 km to reach the trail junction just below the summit of Ořeštník
• At the junction, turn right to follow the diversion signs (red triangle markers) to reach the summit and the stone steps after 250m
• Return back to Hejnice on the same path