About this place
Borecké skály is a small yet remarkably atmospheric sandstone rock city perched on Bor hill (360 m above sea level) near the village of Doubravice, right along the northeastern edge of the Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) protected landscape area. Designated a natural monument in 1985, it covers nearly 29.3 hectares and remains one of the region's lesser-known but genuinely distinctive rock formations.
How did Borecké skály form?
The rock formations were shaped from sandstone deposited during the Turonian stage of the Late Cretaceous period, tens of millions of years ago, when a shallow sea covered what is now Bohemian Paradise. Over millions of years, water and wind erosion carved the sandstone mass into its present, highly textured shapes.
What makes it different from other rock cities in the region?
Unlike neighboring rock cities dominated by tall, freestanding rock towers, Borecké skály has a more compact, cohesive character. Rock towers appear only occasionally here — most of the massif consists of solid walls with unusually sculpted surfaces. This is precisely what sets it apart from the surrounding formations of Bohemian Paradise.
What can visitors see on site?
The rock walls are rich in overhangs, rock windows, and small cavities known locally as "voštiny" — often near-circular hollows formed through sandstone weathering. Look out for rock ledges and several cave-like niches as well. The most archaeologically significant is the pseudokarst Ludmilina Cave, one of the area's notable curiosities.
What natural features are protected here?
The protected area covers not only the Mesozoic-era rock city itself but also the specific flora and fauna tied to it. Especially noteworthy are the remnants of a relict pine forest, made up of dwarf pines and birches that have survived on poor, sandy soils and rocky ledges. This unusual microclimate supports species adapted to harsh, dry conditions rarely found elsewhere in the region.
How can you plan a visit?
A blue-marked hiking trail runs through Borecké skály, connecting the village of Borek pod Troskami with the town of Rovensko. The route passes through the most interesting part of the rock labyrinth and offers beautiful views of the famous Trosky Castle, one of the emblematic sights of Bohemian Paradise. This combination makes for a walk that pairs natural scenery with a striking historical backdrop.
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is Borecké skály located? On Bor hill, near the village of Doubravice, along the northeastern border of the Bohemian Paradise protected landscape area, in the Liberec Region.
When was the natural monument established? The Borecké skály natural monument was designated in 1985.
Are there rock towers here like elsewhere in Bohemian Paradise? No — that's one of the defining features of this site. Compact, solid rock formations dominate, while towers are rare.
What's worth seeing along the walk? Rock windows, overhangs, the honeycomb-like "voštiny" cavities, the pseudokarst Ludmilina Cave, and views of Trosky Castle from the trail.
Which trail passes through the area? A blue-marked hiking trail running from Borek pod Troskami to Rovensko.
Nearby places
Earn badges for the places you visit
Download NextOnTrip, discover new places and check off your trails.