Discover the Allure of Hřebenovka, Máchova Cesta, and Maloskalsko for Hikers!

Have you already experienced the beauty of the Jizera Mountains but want to discover fresh and exciting paths? Then, consider embarking on a rewarding hike on Hřebenovka. This trail has two branches in the Liberec region. The northern branch goes through the heart of the Jizera Mountains, while the southern branch follows the original path of the Blue Ridge, specifically along the Černostudní Ridge. Both sections kick off at the Czech-Polish Pedestrian crossing on the bridge over the Jizera River near Orle, within the Jizera Mountains, and they wrap up at the border with the Ústí nad Labem Region.

The southern route, spanning 47 km, begins at Jizerka and passes through Desná and Tanvald, eventually reaching the Černostudníční ridge. The hike continues through the village of Milíře past the Císařský kámen observation tower, following the Ještěd ridge until it arrives at Ještěd. From there, the trail guides hikers to Petrovice, finishing at the Czech-German border close to Lückendorf. If you prefer exploring the mountain peaks of the Jizera Mountains, you can take The northern route of Hřebenovka, which leads through Smeddava, Snow Towers, Bird Cluster, and Meridian. The route weaves around Oldřichov v Hájích, continuing to Albrechtice u Frýdlantu, Václavice, and Hrádek nad Nisou. In Hartau, it crosses into Germany and follows along the lake in the German territory named Olbersdorfer See and the Mandau River. Hikers will then come to the Oybin, reaching the tip of Hochwald (Hvozd), which marks the Czech-German border before heading to Jonsdorf. The hike comes back to the Czech side at the border crossing Dolní Podluží/Waltersdorf and concludes at Nová Hut, right at the border of the Ústí nad Labem region. This longer trail measures 86.5 km.

Mácha’s Way is exclusively for hikers and takes you through some of the prettiest parts of Kokořínsko to Máchovo Lake, finishing at the village of Zahrádky. The journey spans 61.5 km, beginning in Mělník, or more specifically, at the crossroads beneath the castle. This lovely town will guide you to the forest of Chloumek and then through Liščí roklí to Lhotka (you can also opt for a train ride here on the Mšensko local line, which runs alongside the Pšovka stream. Opting for the train will save you seven kilometers, but you’ll miss out on the stunning views from Chloumek to Polabí and the Bohemian Central Highlands). At the Lhotka pond, you’ll encounter tall walls of rugged sandstone cliffs for the first time. The red trail from the Štampach homestead travels along the rock ridge, past the flat rocks. Continuing through the old mill Kroužek, you’ll arrive at Harasov pond, where the path weaves through rocks, passing a historical rock dwelling that once had a castle in the 15th century, alongside the legendary Krvomlýn stream. As you move on through the area, you’ll pass the Mlčeň site, another old mill, and the location known as Mácha’s Gypsies, where log cabins and huts from the 1930s are found in the Harakoku settlement. This will lead you to Kokořín Mine, home to the well-known U Grobiána pub, perfect for a relaxing break. If you’re feeling a bit tired from the hike, you can divert here to Kočičina and catch a train to Mšena. However, if you choose to stick to Mácha’s Way, you’ll eventually reach the base of Kokořín Castle. The trail then leads past the U Splávku campsite and the starting point for the Kokořínské pokličky, where you can find additional refreshment options in Raj, before continuing along Pšovka.

After the bus stop at Olesno, the trail shifts towards the enchanting Houska Castle, passes through the village of Žďár with its charming traditional architecture, and then goes through the Žďárský forest to Bezděz. From Bezděz, it’s just a stone’s throw to Doksy and of course, to Máchovo Lake. If you’re up for the full adventure, you’ll continue all the way to Stary Splavy and Suchý vrch, which features the Braniborská Cave. The ruins of Jestřebí Castle nearby are also worth a visit. The Mácha Trail ultimately guides you through the deserted village of Mnichov and onward to the castle in the village named Gardens, from where rock climbers can take the path through the Pekel valley leading to Česká Lípa.

The stunning rock formations found in the Bohemian Paradise cater to all types of adventurers, from families with young ones to hardcore hikers to those who prefer a more leisurely stroll. We highly recommend taking a trip to Malá Skála, which tends to be less crowded compared to larger rock towns. Here, you can discover Vranov Rock Castle – Pantheon, and you can combine this visit with the magnificent ruins of Frýdštejn Castle and the Drábovna rock town, where you’ll find the Golden Trail of the Bohemian Paradise. On the opposite side of the Jizera River, you’ll see the Besedice Rocks, which include a challenging rock maze known as Chléviště. Although the climb from Malá Skála is quite steep, there is an easier route starting from Besedice.

Should you choose to follow the Golden Trail of the Bohemian Paradise, your journey will lead you to Dolánek u Turnova, a wonderful spot that offers the beautiful Dlask Farm or the Bohemian Paradise House of Nature. Continue on to Rohliny, and you’ll arrive at another delightful rock town. The Klokočské and Bethlehem Rocks are connected by a nature trail that guides hikers to the Postojna Cave, Rotštejn Castle, and the Klokočské passages. For those looking to enjoy stunning views, I recommend heading to the nearby lookout towers! You can take in sights not only from the famous Kozákov but also from Dubecko and Hamštejn.

Turnov serves as an excellent starting point for adventures in Hruboskalsko. From the Turnov-město train station, you can follow the Golden Trail of the Bohemian Paradise to reach Valdštejn Castle, and enjoy the highlighted viewpoints at U Lvíčka or Na Kapelu. Don’t miss out on the Kopic farm, which features remarkable rock reliefs that are also easily accessible.