The Pavlina Valley Hiking Trail is Open Again

Pavlina Valley is situated close to Jetřichovice in the picturesque region of Czech Switzerland. This valley, reminiscent of a canyon, stretches approximately 3.5 kilometers and has been sculpted by the Chřibská Kamenice river through the Cretaceous sandstones. The river gracefully curves around the sandstone slopes and meets the estuary at the site of the historic Griesl Mill, which is now transformed into a recreational area. At the western end, near the pond, you can spot a rock hollow charmingly known as the Rusalka Cave.

What achievements have the Forests of the Czech Republic made recently? Collaborating with the Ohře River Basin, they have successfully removed nearly 2000 hazardous trees that were at risk of collapsing into the river or onto the hiking paths. This effort has been ongoing since autumn 2024, making the area once again safe for visitors. With spring upon us, it’s a perfect time to plan a visit to Pavlina Valley and witness the beauty of nature coming back to life!

This entire valley serves as an important haven and sanctuary for many rare animal and plant species, including the meadow horsetail, the yellow-eyed Susan, and the wet-eyed warbler. Among its wildlife, you can find the river otter, kingfisher, mountain chamois, brook lamprey, and black stork. Due to its outstanding natural and aesthetic significance, Pavlina Valley was designated as a nature reserve in 1993.

Pavlina Valley can be accessed from the nearby villages of Jetřichovice and Studený by taking the red hiking trail. A delightful hike can be enjoyed starting from Jetřichovice, leading to Griesel’s Cross, then to the swimming area, and continuing along the Kamenice River through Pavlina Valley. From there, a blue trail guides you to Dwarf Rock, and the Church Trail will bring you back to Jetřichovice. Overall, this beautiful journey comprises about 7 km.

Pavlina Valley – A Natural Haven

Discover the stunning and ecologically significant Pavlina Valley, a canyon-like area carved by the Chřibská Kamenice river, located in the picturesque Czech Switzerland region.

Accessibility and Hiking Trails

• Hiking Routes:
  Reach the valley by following the red hiking trail from the villages of Jetřichovice and Studený.

• Trail Length:
  Enjoy a complete hiking circuit measuring approximately 7 kilometers.

• Improved Safety:
  The valley has been cleared of nearly 2,000 unstable trees, ensuring safer hiking paths and reducing potential hazards near the river.

Natural Attractions and Wildlife

• Flora:
  Encounter species such as meadow horsetail, yellow-eyed Susan, and wetland horsetail.

• Fauna:
  Watch for the river otter, river kingfisher, mountain chamois, creek lamprey, and black stork.

• Scenic Landmarks:

  • Rusalka Cave:
    Enjoy stunning views from this romantically named rock formation.

  • Additional Sites:
    Along the route, explore Griesel’s Cross, a nearby pond, a swimming pool, and Dwarf Rock.

Environmental and Conservation Highlights

• Nature Reserve Status:
  Pavlina Valley was officially recognized as a nature reserve in 1993.

• National Park of Bohemian Switzerland:
  The area gained further protection when the national park was established on January 1, 2000.

Pavlina Valley offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts, combining breathtaking landscapes with a diverse array of wildlife and well-maintained hiking paths.