Outdoor activities in Czechia
The Czech Republic offers a wide range 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 surroundings. 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 distributed, but also lead through a wide variety of landscapes. The more than 40,000 km of hiking trails pass through impressive gorges, forests, mystical caves, peat bogs and high cliffs. In addition, tourism remains limited in many regions, so you can 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 opportunities for hiking. The various hiking trails cover a wide range – both in terms of difficulty level and the nature of the terrain. It is therefore advisable to find out in advance which trails best suit your preferences. Consider, for example, which animals you would like to observe, whether rocky landscapes or dense forests appeal to you more, and what level you feel confident tackling.
The Giant Mountains (Krkonoše National Park) is also a very popular region for hiking. The hike to Sněžka (the highest mountain in the Czech Republic) is particularly well known. On this tour, spectacular views and impressive nature await you. In the mountain huts of the Giant Mountains, you can get to know Czech specialties and take a well-deserved break.
Bohemian Switzerland is known for its impressive rock formations and the largest natural rock arch in Europe.
If you prefer to hike through untouched nature and dense forests, we recommend the Bohemian Forest. Rivers and lakes further enhance the natural experience and offer fascinating insights into the diverse landscape of the Czech Republic.
When it comes to hiking in the Czech Republic, there is truly 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 – regardless of whether you are a beginner or already 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 (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 attractions)
Prague (city tours)
If you want to discover cities and nature by bike, you'll find many suitable routes in the Czech Republic. In addition, there are also numerous mountain bike trails where you can experience sporty, challenging descents.
Water sports
There are numerous water sports and activities in the Czech Republic. Below, we introduce you to the various options and give you an overview.
Swimming
Even though the Czech Republic has no sea, you can theoretically still spend a beach holiday there. This is because the country offers numerous lakes, rivers and ponds, in which, in many cases, you can safely swim. Some of the most popular bodies of water include Lipno Reservoir (especially for water sports), Lake Máchovo (known for its beautiful beaches) and 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 the water quality, water temperature and possible currents beforehand. Popular rivers for swimming include the Vltava, the Berounka and the Sázava.
Kayaking
In the Czech Republic, there is not just one but several rivers and routes that are excellent for kayaking. For beginners, guided tours on the Vltava are even offered, allowing you to experience the city from a whole 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 people 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 as closely as 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 you should remember to bring enough food, sunscreen and a waterproof bag for your valuables.
Canoeing
On a tour on the water, you can discover hidden places in nature that can only be reached from the water. Canoeing is very popular in the Czech Republic. In summer and during the holidays, it can therefore get quite crowded in places. There are numerous routes with different difficulty levels and various group sizes. Weirs (dams) and rapids can be 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 currents of Czech rivers at high speed, we recommend whitewater rafting. Here, you sit with other people in an inflatable boat and travel through channels with rapids and obstacles. These are often artificially constructed 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 respective route.
SUP board
You don't need a kayak to experience Prague from the water. On the Vltava, you can paddle a SUP board under the famous Prague bridges. On some tours, the guides also take photos that you can keep as a souvenir. Corresponding tours are also offered on other lakes and rivers. We recommend checking the length of the tour beforehand to assess whether your stamina is sufficient for a relaxed ride or whether the excursion will be more athletic. Depending on the tour, you can therefore choose a calm or more challenging 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 jet. 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, that's often a welcome way to cool off. Wakeboarding is also often used as a summer alternative to snowboarding, while the reverse can be true in winter.
Golf
If golf is one of your passions, you certainly don't have to do without it 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 as well as advanced players and professionals will find suitable offers. 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, West 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 using a rope. For this, you need solid knowledge of various securing knots. It is also important to observe the climbing ban when the rock is wet and for 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 does not crumble as easily. Rock formations such as the two rock arches Trojnožka or the round elephant rocks 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 property, you should find out about current opening hours and rules in advance.
In addition to natural climbing routes, there are also climbing gyms and climbing parks. There's something for every level. Each climbing area offers its own unique features and views. Please remember to bring enough water and food, and wear sturdy footwear.
Winter sports
The Czech Republic also offers numerous outdoor activities in winter. Skiing is particularly popular and easily accessible 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, in addition to sport, you can also enjoy wellness offers and get to know the culinary specialties of the Czech Republic in restaurants. In some regions, ski lifts are not up to date, and the slopes could also be better developed in places. Depending on your requirements and skill level, it is therefore advisable to find out about the different ski resorts in advance. The size of the ski resort also affects visitor numbers as well as the selection of restaurants and shops. If you prefer to ski 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 go without anything – whether it's après-ski, ski school, wellness offers, nature experiences or gastronomy.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant trip!
We wish you a pleasant trip to the Czech Republic and lots of enjoyment exploring 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.
