The Bohemian-Moravian Cyril & Methodius trail spans 420 km from Levý Hradec to Velehrad, celebrating the 9th century missionaries and featuring sections through many historical and cultural sites across the Czech Republic.
Category: East Bohemia
*A brilliant walk along the Sázava river between Ledeč and Světla nad Sázavou: 17 km*
This is one of the best walks along the picturesque Sázava river. Part of the Cyril & Methodius long distance route, this deserves a standalone trip – especially to see the Stvořidla nature reserve.
A short countryside walk from the Kvasetice chateau hotel/restaurant: 5 km
The neo-Gothic Kvasetice chateau, located close to Havlíčkův Brod in the Vysočina region, has been beautifully restored as a boutique hotel-restaurant. Here is a short walk to accompany a visit!
A short visit to Světla nad Sázavou, with its impressive chateau and park: 2 km
The historic glass-making town of Světla nad Sázavou in the Vysočina region is worth a visit, especially to see the Neo-Renaissance chateau and the beautiful Church of St Wenceslaus.
*Circular routes along the challenging Doubrava river canyon, near Chotěboř: 5 km to 14 km*
The Doubrava valley is a pretty rock lined canyon with a well-known footpath that traverses the left bank for 5 km. It is a fun route, but only in good conditions!
*A visit to the castle and home of Jaroslav Hašek in Lipnice nad Sázavou: 6 km*
Lipnice is definitely worth a visit, especially to see the partly reconstructed late Gothic castle. The village – located in attractive countryside -is also the last home of acclaimed author, Jaroslav Hašek.
A short visit to Přelouč, on the Santiago de Compostela trail, with a section along the Labe: 4 km
The historic town of Přelouč is located on the river Labe and is also an important stopping point on the Santiago de Compostele pilgrimage trail, due to its famous church.
*A short visit to the historic East Bohemian royal town of Polička: 2 km*
Polička, a historic royal town in East Bohemia founded in 1265, features well-preserved fortifications, a Baroque town hall, and notable landmarks, including a Plague column and composer Bohuslav Martinů’s birthplace.
A visit to Hronov, birthplace of Alois Jirásek, with a stop at the Signal viewpoint: 2 km to 8 km
Hronov is the birthplace of influential 19th century author Alois Jirásek. Make a stop to explore the museums, the lovely churchyard area and maybe hike up to the Signál viewpoint.
*Walks to the Pilgrimage site in the hills above historic Police nad Metují: 4 km to 8 km*
A forested hill above the historic Broumovsko monastery town of Police nad Metují, is the setting for a famous 19th century pilgrimage site. This is a very scenic round trip.
*The pre-WWII Dobrošov fortifications educational trail, starting from Jiráskova chata : 6 km*
The Dobrošov artillery fortress is one of the best preserved of the tunnel-linked WWII border fortifications. In addition to the blockhouses and museum, there are some great views to enjoy.
*Walks to the Velká Deštná viewing tower, including winter options: 4 km to 12 km*
Velká Deštná is the tallest peak in Orlické hory at 1116m and is accessible year round on various scenic trails. The new observation tower on the summit is an iconic east Bohemian monument.
*Routes to the Orlické hory peak, Vrchmezí (1084m), starting from Deštné: 15 – 20 km*
Vrchmezí is the highest peak in the Orlické hory directly on the Cz-Poland border. It is a popular hiking destination year round, accessed by several good trails on both sides of the border.
*The Pardoubek pond fairytale trail at the spa town of Lázně Bělohrad: 2 km*
A brilliant collection of larger-than-life wooden figures from fairytales and myths line the short trail around the picturesque Pardoubek pond in the spa town of Lázně Bělohrad.
*A varied circuit around the spa area and countryside near Lázně Bělohrad: 8 km*
The east Bohemian spa, Lázně Bělohrad, may lack the grandeur of the west Bohemian spas, but the countryside is equally attractive. There are a couple of nature trails which are worth investigating.
A walk in the forest area near Ostroměř, noted for its prehistoric and early medieval sites: 12 km
The hilly ridges bordering the northeast part of the Labe river plain are full of important archaeological sites – and also offer attractive forest walking routes. Try this one near the town of Ostroměř.
*A visit to the historic town of Hořice (home to one of Bohemia’s most famous sweets): 2 km to 7 km*
Hořice is probably best known to Czechs today as the home of the famous ‘hořické trubičky’. However, the town has some other claims to fame and is worth exploring, even by those without a sweet tooth!
*An easy circular route in the Králický Sněžník nature park, near Sky bridge 721: 14 km*
The Králický Sněžník nature park has many attractive hiking and cycle paths, some of which can be best accessed by using the Dolní Morava resort chair lift. This is one of the easier routes!
Sky Bridge 721: (once) the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge – a 2 km trail
Sky Bridge 721, in the Dolní Morava mountain resort was included in Time Magazine’s prestigious “World’s Greatest Places” list. It is worth the effort (and expense) to visit the attraction.
*Králický Sněžník (1423m) from Dolní Morava, along the Polish border trail: 24 km*
The climb to the summit of Králický Sněžník is rewarding: super views into Poland and back into the Czech lands and a nice return along the fledgling river Morava, from its source.
*The Králíky military museum and WWII fortification education trail: 6 km (extendable)*
The northeast Bohemian town of Králíky is known for its well preserved, extensive pre-WWII border fortifications. This easy walk explores the museum area to the north of the pretty town center.
*A visit to the Hora Matky Boží pilgrimage site above the east Bohemian town of Králíky: 8 km*
The Baroque complex of Hora Matky Boží is the most important pilgrimage site in east Bohemia. Impressively situated on a hilltop overlooking historic Králíky. It is well worth the hike up!
A short visit to Jablonné nad Orlicí, on the edge of the historic Králíky fortification area: 2 km
If travelling in NE Bohemia, especially on a tour of the famous pre-WWII border defenses, maybe make a quick stop in Jablonné (and perhaps discover a little about a half-forgotten Czech hero….)
A visit to historic Lanškroun, with an optional extension to the fishpond area: 2 km – 11 km
Lanškroun, a historic town in northeastern Bohemia, features Renaissance architecture, notable history, and attractions like a picturesque fishpond area with marked trails, ideal for exploration and recreation.
The ‘Krok za krokem’ education trail around the town of Česká Třebová: 5 km
Česká Třebová is not just a famous railway junction. Jump off the train for a look around this historic and attractive town, which has East Bohemia’s oldest stone monument.
*The Betonová hranice WWII fortification trail, starting at Suchý vrch: 12 km*
The Betonová hranice trail near Králíky follows the line of the densest network of pre-WWII border defences in the country. It is a ‘must see’ for anyone with even a passing interest in 20th century history.
*An easy walk between Letohrad and Tvrz Orlice, at the edge of Orlické hory: 5 km*
If visiting the Orlické hory region, consider a stop in Letohrad to visit the Renaissance town and chateau, then stroll down the road to reach the fine restaurant at the former fortress at Tvrz Orlice.
*A visit to Častolovice to see the Sternberg and Kinský family chateaux: 4 km*
The Sternberg family chateau at Častolovice is a real jewel of East Bohemia. Visit the Renaissance chateau, park and mini zoo and take the short walk also to visit the nearby Empire-style Kinský chateau.
*A short walk to the Suchý vrch viewpoints, at the edge of the Orlické hory: 2 km*
Suchý vrch is a popular spot at the southern edge of the Orlické hory. For a nice short stroll to some excellent viewpoints, try this route and then grab some refreshments in the mountain hut.
A short walk around historic Žamberk, with its beautiful English park area: 4 km
Žamberk is an historic and attractive eastern Bohemian town with a number of attractions for the curious visitor, including a lovely English park. It is worth a look around.
*An exceptionally varied route visiting Potštejn and Litice castles, on the edge of Orlické hory: 15 km*
The ruins of Litice and Potštejn castles are two of the most interesting in east Bohemia. This fine circular walk connects the both, along some attractive footpaths and also visits two super restaurants.
A short visit to Potštejn castle and chateau, with a stop at the Clock brewery: 3 km
Potštejn castle is a legendary and romantic 13th-century Gothic ruin overlooking the Divoká Orlice river. It is definitely worth a visit, either on a short or longer walk.
A short walk to Jiří of Poděbrady’s favourite castle – Litice nad Orlicí: 3 km
The late medieval Litice nad Orlicí castle is one of the nicest places to visit in the Orlické hory region, not least because of a nearby excellent restaurant serving artisanal ice cream!
A visit to Rychnov nad Kněžnou, home of the beautiful Santini-designed Kolowrat chateau: 3 km
Rychnov nad Kněžnou is an historic town in east Bohemia, with a superb Baroque complex designed by the incomparable Jan Blažej Santini. This is a short walk around a lovely town.
*A 4 km tour around the 2024 ‘Historic City of the Year’: Moravská Třebová*
The beautiful Moravian town of Moravská Třebová is justly renowned for its early Renaissance architecture. Pay a visit, before the town gets overwhelmed with tourists after its recent award!
*A short walk around the historical center of the East Bohemian town, Vysoké Mýto: 3 km*
Vysoké Mýto is one of the oldest and best preserved historical towns in east Bohemia. It seems a bit off the normal tourist routes, making it an even more attractive place for a short stop!
A short walk around historic Svitavy, the birthplace of Oskar Schindler: 3 km
Svitavy, on the Moravia-Bohemia border, deserves a visit for its large Baroque-Renaissance town square, fine 19th century villas and for its association with Oskar Schindler.
A short walk around the poignant World War II memorial site of Ležáky: 1 km
Ležáky is one of the most poignant WWII memorial sites in the country, commemorating the tragic massacre of the village’s population after the assassination of Richard Heydrich.
*Discovering castles along the Sázava river – from Zruč to Ledeč: 25 km (with shorter options)*
The hiking trail between the Sázava riverside towns of Zruč to Ledeč (with their famous castles) is very attractive and can be done as a one-way route by using the railway running beside the river.
*A fabulous circuit along Broumov Walls via Hlavňov, the Kovářova gorge and Suchý Důl: 13 km*
This circuit is one of the nicest circular routes in the Broumovsko region, offering stunning rock formations, great viewpoints, and some super refreshment options.
*A short walk to Hvězda chapel and best Broumov Walls viewpoints via Kovářova gorge: 6 km*
The Broumov Walls has some spectacular Cretaceous sandstone rock formations including shaped rock pillars and stunning viewpoints, many of which are visited on this trip.
*Easy walks to the Hvězda pilgrimage chapel and nearby Broumov Walls viewpoints: 2 km*
The Hvězda pilgrimage chapel, a stunning Baroque architectural gem, offers easy access from a nearby parking area. The charming Chata Hvězda lodge and scenic viewpoints make for an enriching visit.
*A tour of the spectacular Broumovsko sandstone rocks formations, Ostaš and Kočičí skály: 5 km*
Broumovsko is blessed with many remarkable Cretaceous era sandstone rock formations. Combine two of the smaller areas into one short trip, with lots of great viewpoints!
*A short walk around the Renaissance town and chateau of Nové Město nad Metují: 3 km*
Nové Město nad Metují, a small town near the border with Poland in east Bohemia, has uniquely retained its Renaissance character and has one of the region’s most interesting chateaux.
A short visit to Náchod with its famous chateau protecting the Czech-Polish border: 4 km
A visit to Náchod is definitely worthwhile, mainly to see the large historic chateau perched above the town. There are also some interesting refreshment options along the way!
*A walk around historic Opočno, with its Renaissance chateau and park area: 4 km*
Visit Opočno chateau (and the historic town) for a touch of Italian style in east Bohemia. No, not the ice cream, but a wonderful chateau with a colorful and long history.
A short walk around the walls of the 18th century Habsburg fortress of Josefov: 4 km
Josefov fortress was built to protect eastern Bohemia against the Prussians. It was never captured. Follow the easy education trail around the ramparts to learn more!
*In the footsteps of Božena Němcová: Ratibořice chateau and along Babiččino údolí – 3 km to 15 km*
Božena Němcová was inspired by her childhood in Ratibořice to write her most famous novel, Babička. A super nature trail beside the Úpa river visits all the important places in the novel.
A walk around Dvůr Králové town before heading to the famous zoo and Safari Park: 4 km
The excellent Dvůr Králové zoo and Safari Park attract vast numbers of visitors. Take a stroll around the historic town centre before heading off to see the African animal collection.
*A tour around historic Trutnov, including a walk around the famous 1866 battlefield site: 6 km*
Trutnov was the site of a significant battle between Prussian and Austrian forces in 1866. The town boasts a fine historic center and an interesting trail commemorating the battle.
*An extended trip in the landscape surrounding Slatiňany chateau: 14 km to 17 km*
This is an extended version of an earlier post detailing easy walks near the beautiful Slatiňany chateau, adding some new landmarks and additional refreshment options!
*Easy walks in the landscape surrounding Slatiňany chateau: 3 km to 13 km*
The park area surrounding the beautiful Slatiňany chateau offers easy walks of varying lengths, including a stroll through the lovely chateau gardens, a visit to the Bára lookout, and a riverside path.
From Řečany to Přelouč via the UNESCO listed landscape at Kladruby nad Labem: 14 km
The World Heritage horse breeding landscape at Kladruby is well worth exploring. Extend the trip with a walk in the Labe river valley forests between two towns linked by frequent trains.
The ‘Via Czechia’ trail system: with specific focus on the 1058 km ‘northern route’
The ‘Via Czechia’ is a series of six multiday long distance routes crossing different regions of the country. The northern trail – discussed here – is the longest and most challenging.
A visit to Oheb castle ruins perched high above Seč reservoir – 3 km to 6 km
The romantic ruins of Oheb castle look down on the shimmering waters of Seč reservoir. The short walk from the reservoir shores is worthwhile, with the option of a dip in the lake afterwards!
*Along the river Labe from Pardubice to Kunětická hora castle: 8 km to 17 km*
The castle on Kunětická hora is an important landmark in the otherwise flat Labe river plain, north of Pardubice. It is an interesting site to visit, especially if approached using the Labe footpath.
A tour of the unique Baroque complex of Kuks and the Braun sandstone sculptures: 3 km to 9 km
The hospital and former spa complex at Kuks is one of the most impressive Baroque monuments in Bohemia. Tour the complex and the surrounding landscape, filled with sculptures by M.B. Braun.
Exploring the UNESCO listed horse breeding landscape at Kladruby nad Labem: 5 km
In 2019 the national stud farm at Kladruby and its surrounding area was inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Tour the landscape on this easy nature trail – even recommended for non horse lovers!
An easy walk around the pretty historical center of Pardubice: 3 km
Take the educational route around the old town of Pardubice, filled with superb Renaissance architecture, including the unique castle, the largest and best preserved of its type in Central Europe.
A short visit to the neo-Gothic Nechanice chateau and park area: 3 km
Hrádek u Nechanic, situated near Hradec Králové, is the youngest chateau of its type in Bohemia. Take a short trip around the forested park area to admire this colorful neo-Gothic masterpiece.
An historical tour around the capital of East Bohemia, Hradec Králové – 3 km
Hradec Králové is one of the most interesting cities to visit in the country, with a wealth of different architecture and a spectacular old town, which is easily toured in a walk of less than 3 km.
Chlumec nad Cidlinou and its remarkable Santini designed Baroque chateau: 3 km
The Baroque chateau in Chlumec nad Cidlinou (near to Hradec Králové) was designed by the legendary architect Santini. It is a highlight of an easy walk around town and the park area.
An easy walk around the historic town of Havlíčkův Brod on the Sázava river: 2 km
Havlíčkův Brod, one of several historic towns in the Vysočina region, is worth exploring on a short walk for its scenic Baroque town square and impressive medieval fortifications.
Walks to the romantic ruins of Orlík castle near Humpolec: 2 km to 8 km
The 14th century ruins of Orlík castle are perched on a hill 2 km to the east of Humpolec. The unique tower viewpoint offers a super panorama. There are various route options to reach the castle.
*A short walk around the town of Litomyšl, with its famous Renaissance chateau – 3 km*
Litomyšl is mostly known as the location of a spectacular UNESCO listed Renaissance chateau. However, the whole town is filled with many Baroque and Renaissance buildings and is worth exploring.
Lichnice castle from Třemošnice and the Lovětínská gorge – 8 km
The dramatic ruins of the once powerful fortress of Lichnice are on the ridge at the western edge of Železné hory. Take a short hike up to the ruins and return through the scenic Lovětínská gorge.
*Along the Broumovské stěny from Hvězda to Machov – a 17 km tour*
This one way route runs along the most spectacular part of the Broumovsky sandstone ‘walls’ starting at Hvězda, by using the bus connection and visiting the best viewpoints on the route to Machov.
*A 15 km tour of the extraordinary Adršpach-Teplice Rocks (with shorter options)*
This is one of the most spectacular walks in the country. Exploring the extraordinary Adršpach-Teplice rock formations (preferably outside the holiday season) feels like a visiting a lost world.
*Short walks amongst the amazing Adršpach Rocks: 5 km*
The Adršpach rocks are amongst the most spectacular sandstone formations anywhere in Europe. It is possible to explore the main sights in around a couple of hours.