Outdoor activities in Czechia

The Czech Republic offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. Especially in the mountains and national parks, you can take part in numerous activities. Hiking, cycling, water sports and winter sports are among the most popular and widespread activities in the Czech Republic's natural landscape. In addition, golf and climbing are also possible in this impressive country. In this article, we give you an overview of the outdoor activities in the Czech Republic.

Hiking

The hiking trails in the Czech Republic are not only very extensive and widely spread, but also lead through a wide variety of landscapes. The more than 40,000 km of hiking trails run through impressive gorges, forests, mystical caves, peat bogs and high cliffs. In addition, tourism remains limited in many regions, allowing you to enjoy the nature and landscape in peace. The selection of hiking trails is correspondingly large and extremely varied.

Inspiration for your hikes

The Ore Mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities. The various hiking trails cover a wide range – both in terms of difficulty level and the nature of the surroundings. Ideally, find out in advance which trails best suit your preferences. Consider, for example, which animals you would like to observe, whether you prefer rocky landscapes or dense forests, and what level you feel comfortable with.

The Giant Mountains (Krkonoše National Park) are also a very popular hiking region. Particularly well known is the hike to Sněžka (the highest mountain in the Czech Republic). This tour offers spectacular views and impressive nature. In the mountain huts of the Giant Mountains, you can try Czech specialties and take a well-deserved break.

The Bohemian Switzerland is known for its impressive rock formations and the largest natural rock arch in Europe.

If you prefer hiking through untouched nature and dense forests, we recommend the Bohemian Forest. Rivers and lakes further enrich the natural experience and offer fascinating insights into the Czech Republic's diverse landscape.

When it comes to hiking in the Czech Republic, there really is something for everyone. However, be sure to pack sturdy footwear, enough provisions and weatherproof clothing to be well prepared. It is also important to respect the flora and fauna and to take your rubbish with you.

Cycling

The Czech Republic is a popular destination for cycling – whether you are a beginner or already more advanced. Whether you prefer a relaxed, slightly hilly route or a challenging, mountainous tour: there are numerous options. Particularly popular regions include:

• Elbe Cycle Path (a classic route with picturesque scenery around Prague)

• South Moravia (gentle hills, vineyards and historic towns)

• Bohemian Forest (challenging mountain bike trails and picturesque landscapes)

• Vltava Cycle Path (along the Vltava River with numerous sights)

• Prague (city tours)

If you want to explore cities and nature by bike, you will find many suitable routes in the Czech Republic. In addition, there are also numerous mountain bike trails where you can experience challenging, sporty descents.

Water Sports

There are numerous water sports and activities in the Czech Republic. Below, we present the various options and give you an overview.

Swimming

Even though the Czech Republic has no sea, you can theoretically still enjoy a beach-style holiday here. This is because the country offers numerous lakes, rivers and ponds, many of which are safe for swimming. Among the most popular bodies of water are Lake Lipno (especially for water sports), Lake Mácha (known for its beautiful beaches), as well as the glacial lakes in the Bohemian Forest (ideal for nature lovers, less touristy). These include, for example, Čertovo jezero (Devil's Lake) and Černé jezero (Black Lake). As with all swimming areas, please check in advance the water quality, water temperature and possible currents. Popular rivers for swimming include the Vltava, the Berounka and the Sázava.

Kayaking

In the Czech Republic, there isn't just one but several rivers and routes that are excellent for kayaking. Guided tours on the Vltava are even offered for beginners, allowing you to experience the city from a completely new perspective. The Sázava river is also popular. However, there are rapids and a whitewater section there, which is why this route is recommended more for those with some experience. The Otava river flows through the Šumava National Park, offering a particularly natural and relaxing atmosphere.

For safety reasons, you should never paddle alone and should choose a tour that matches your abilities whenever possible. During peak season, it can get very crowded, so it makes sense to reserve a kayak in advance. Since some tours only take place with a minimum number of participants, it is also advisable to have a backup plan. Kayaking can be strenuous, so remember to bring enough food and drink, sunscreen and a waterproof bag for your valuables.

Canoeing

On a tour on the water, you can discover hidden places in nature that are only accessible from the water. Canoeing is very popular in the Czech Republic. As a result, it can get quite crowded in places during the summer and holiday periods. There are numerous routes with varying levels of difficulty and different group sizes. Weirs (dams) and rapids can pose a challenge for many people. We recommend choosing more demanding tours only if you are aware of the requirements involved.

Whitewater Rafting

If you want to plunge into the waters of Czech rivers at high speed, we recommend whitewater rafting. In this activity, you sit with other people in an inflatable boat and travel through channels with rapids and obstacles. These are often artificially created routes with impressive rapids and waves. Besides the adrenaline, teamwork, skill and shared fun in the water are also key aspects. There is often a minimum number of participants required for a tour to take place. For many providers, this minimum is six people. Here too, different difficulty levels are available, depending on the specific route.

SUP Board

Kayaking isn't the only way to experience Prague from the water. On the Vltava, you can paddle a SUP board beneath Prague's famous bridges. On some tours, guides also take photos that you can keep as a memento. Similar tours are also offered on other lakes and rivers. We recommend checking the length of the tour in advance to assess whether your stamina is sufficient for a relaxed ride or whether the trip will be more sporty. Depending on the tour, you can therefore choose a calm or more demanding route.

Flyboard

This water activity offers an extraordinary experience, allowing you to fly up to 10 meters above the water. A flyboard is a hydroflight device that lifts you above the water's surface using a high-pressure water propulsion system. You are connected to a watercraft via a hose, which ensures safety. Controlled flying may require a bit of practice, but it's worth it. This activity is often permitted from age 10.

Wakeboarding

In wakeboarding, athletes are pulled behind a boat and try to perform slaloms, jumps or even tricks on a surf-like board. Especially at the beginning, falls into the water are not uncommon – but in summer, this is often a welcome way to cool off. Wakeboarding is also frequently used in summer as an alternative to snowboarding, while in winter it can be the other way around.

Golf

If golf is one of your passions, you certainly don't have to miss out during your trip to the Czech Republic. There are numerous golf clubs and golf courses in the country. In total, more than 90 different facilities are available, so you're sure to find a course that meets your expectations. Beginners, advanced players and professionals alike will find suitable options. You can also plan a dedicated golf trip and stay at a golf hotel to combine golf with wellness offers. Popular regions for a golf holiday include Prague, Western Bohemia and North Moravia.

Climbing

There are many climbing opportunities in the Czech Republic, for example in the central area of Skalák. This belongs to the Hruboskalsko climbing area. There are more than 400 rock towers there, with heights of over 55 meters. A special highlight is that you can climb between the individual rock towers with the help of a rope. For this, you need solid knowledge of various securing knots. It is also important to observe the climbing ban during wet conditions and up to 48 hours after rainfall, as the sandstone in this area is soft and can break off when wet.

In the Suché skály and Vranovský hřeben climbing area, you can climb more independently of the weather, as the sandstone there has a firmer structure and doesn't crumble as easily. Rock formations such as the two rock gates Trojnožka or the round elephant stones Sloní hřbety are particularly well known there.

The Prachov Rocks are also extremely popular and versatile. Steep rock staircases and narrow paths wind through the sandstone cliffs and the forest. It almost feels like a rock city. Since this climbing area is located on private land, you should find out about the current opening hours and rules in advance.

In addition to natural climbing routes, there are also climbing halls and climbing parks. There's something for every level. Each climbing area offers its own special features and views. Please remember to bring enough water and food, and wear sturdy footwear.

Winter Sports

Even in winter, the Czech Republic offers numerous outdoor activities. Skiing is particularly popular and easily possible thanks to the many mountains and mountain ranges. Harrachov, Špindlerův Mlýn and Pec pod Sněžkou are among the best-known ski resorts. In many ski resorts, you can enjoy wellness offers alongside the sport and try the culinary specialties of the Czech Republic in restaurants. In some regions, ski lifts are not up to date, and the slopes could in some cases be better developed. Depending on your expectations and skill level, it is therefore advisable to find out about the different ski resorts beforehand. The size of the ski resort also affects visitor numbers as well as the selection of restaurants and shops. If you prefer skiing in a quieter environment, smaller ski resorts are often better suited – provided you feel up to the conditions. Another major advantage of a ski trip to the Czech Republic is the price. A six-day ski pass is significantly cheaper in the Czech Republic than, for example, in the Alps. Still, you don't have to miss out on anything – whether it's après-ski, ski school, wellness offers, nature experiences or dining.

The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant trip!

We wish you a wonderful trip to the Czech Republic and lots of enjoyment exploring the nature and the diverse activities. Please don't forget to find out in advance about the country's toll regulations. If you have any questions, we are happy to help. Please contact us by email.