Černý vrch near Vrbno pod Pradědem

Černý vrch is a peak in the Hrubý Jeseník range, rising to roughly 1,200 metres above sea level right next to Vrbno pod Pradědem, a small town in the Bruntál district of northern Moravia. The name — "black hill" in Czech — recurs across the country, with well over a dozen summits sharing it, so this particular one is easy to confuse with others. It sits inside the Jeseníky Protected Landscape Area and is also known locally as Malé Loučky.

Where exactly is Černý vrch?

The peak rises within the Hrubý Jeseník massif, close to Vrbno pod Pradědem, a spa town sitting at about 590 metres that has long served as a gateway toward Praděd. A few kilometres further into the mountains lies Karlova Studánka, the highest-situated village in the Bruntál district and a well-known spa resort in its own right, as well as a starting point for trails up Praděd. Černý vrch itself stays in the shadow of these better-known destinations, which makes it a fitting choice for anyone after a quieter route away from the busiest paths.

Why is this area protected?

The whole surrounding landscape belongs to the Jeseníky Protected Landscape Area (CHKO Jeseníky), established in 1969 and covering 744 square kilometres. Elevations within the protected area range from 314 to 1,492 metres, with Praděd — the second-highest mountain in the Czech Republic — as its highest point, visible from several vantage spots around Vrbno. The protection covers both the upper ridges of the range and the stream valleys draining toward Vrbno pod Pradědem, making this one of the most ecologically valuable regions in the country.

How do you get to the area around Černý vrch?

Vrbno pod Pradědem is the most convenient starting point, with trails leading directly into the Hrubý Jeseník range. Karlova Studánka or the nearby settlement of Vidly, a local trailhead for routes in this part of the mountains, offer alternative approaches. The area works well as a day trip combined with a look around Vrbno itself, known for its historic town layout and long spa tradition.

What should you know before heading out here?

The country around Černý vrch is typical Hrubý Jeseník terrain: forested ridges, small stream sources, and views that stretch toward the higher parts of the range with Praděd on the horizon. It suits travellers who value quiet, unspoiled mountain scenery over the visitor infrastructure found on the range's main summits.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Černý vrch? The summit reaches about 1,200 metres above sea level.

Which mountain range is Černý vrch part of? It belongs to the Hrubý Jeseník range, within the Jeseníky Protected Landscape Area.

What's the nearest base for visiting it? Vrbno pod Pradědem, a spa town at roughly 590 metres above sea level.

Is there a well-known peak nearby? Yes — Praděd, the second-highest mountain in the Czech Republic, rises in the same range.

Is Černý vrch a popular tourist destination? It stays far less visited than Praděd or Karlova Studánka, making it a good pick for a quieter hike.