*The challenging Kögler nature trail starting in Krásná Lípa: 23 km*

• The Kögler nature trail is apparently the oldest natural science trail in the Czech Republic, established in 1941 by Rudolf Kögler, a native of Krásná Lípa. The original 12 km Kögler route ran from Vápenka to Vlčí Hora and followed the geological line of the Lusatian fault, which separates the sandstone area of the Bohemian Cretaceous Basin from the Lusatian Granite Massif. The route has now been expanded into a circular 23 km trail starting in Krásná Lípa.
• Highlights of the route include the Kyjov nature trail through a classic sandstone rock labyrinth (sometimes called ‘rock towns’) and the ascent of the volcanic peak of Vlčí hora (581m), with its summit lookout tower. Both of these highlights can be done as separate smaller trips if preferred (click the links for details).
• However, the full Kögler route is well worth doing, if having sufficient time. The terrain is varied and there are around 40 information boards along the nature trail, explaining the history and natural environment of the area (in Czech only).
• This is quite a strenuous route, with nearly 700m of ascent and descent along the 23 km trail. The Kyjov section, is particularly challenging as it involves a number of steep step sections and narrow gullies to squeeze through.
• There are a number of good refreshment options along the way, including the pleasant café, Bylinková čajovna Nobilis Tilia (map point 11) and Restaurace Penzion Vlčárna (map point 14). In Krásná Lípa (the suggested start and finish point for the route), there some nice cafés, including Kavárna U Frinda (map point 17) and the excellent brewery restaurant Pivovar Falkenštejn (map point 16).

Note: click ‘Show on map’ above to go to a full screen version directly on the mapy.cz site. This can be used for on line navigation, saved or exported as a GPX file

Directions

• Start the walk in the center of Krásná Lípa (reached by bus from Děčín). There are parking areas on the main square
• The Kögler trail begins behind the Dům Českého Švýcarska information office-museum. The trail is marked on its entire length with green-white triangle nature trail markers, as well as on the trail junction signposts.
• It is suggested to follow the route clockwise, starting in the direction heading towards Nad Krásnou Lípou