Čertova pláň

Čertova pláň is a peak in the western Krkonoše Mountains (Giant Mountains), located roughly 3.5 km southeast of Harrachov, a small Czech town sitting right on the border with Poland. The name translates loosely to "Devil's Plain," fitting for a range steeped in local folklore — though the peak itself stays well off the beaten path compared to crowd-pullers like Sněžka or Szrenica.

Where is Čertova pláň located?

The peak sits in the Czech part of the Krkonoše range, part of the Sudetes that run along the Czech-Polish border. Its coordinates are 50.7505 N, 15.4748 E. The nearest access point is Harrachov, a town well known to visitors approaching the Krkonoše from the Czech side, with trails leading further into the mountains from there.

How do you get there?

Most visitors start from Harrachov, just over 3 km from the summit as the crow flies. The town sits along a road connecting the Czech Republic and Poland, making it a convenient base for both day-trippers and travelers planning a longer stay in the Krkonoše. Trails typical of this part of the range lead from Harrachov toward Čertova pláň — it's worth picking up a current map of the Krkonoše National Park (Krkonošský národní park) before setting out, since the trail network in the region is extensive and some routes close seasonally.

What will you see at the top?

Like most elevations in the western Krkonoše, Čertova pláň offers landscape typical of the range — forested lower slopes giving way to more open terrain near the tree line characteristic of the Sudetes. It's a spot for travelers looking for a quieter alternative to the busier peaks inside Krkonoše National Park, where fewer crowds and less-traveled paths are the main draw.

When should you visit?

The Krkonoše have distinct seasons, and timing shapes the character of a visit. Summer and early autumn are best for hiking, with longer days and the most accessible trails. In winter the region, including Harrachov, turns into a ski destination, but reaching quieter summits like Čertova pláň at that time of year calls for proper preparation and winter hiking experience, given the snow cover and shorter daylight hours.

Who is this destination for?

Given its low-key character and the absence of the tourist infrastructure found on the Krkonoše's main peaks, Čertova pláň suits hikers who prefer calmer routes away from the heaviest foot traffic concentrated around Sněžka. It's also a solid choice for anyone already based in Harrachov looking for a shorter route to round out a longer stay in the region.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Čertova pláň from Harrachov? The peak lies about 3.5 km southeast of central Harrachov.

Is it a popular tourist destination? Not one of the best-known Krkonoše peaks — it's better suited to travelers seeking quieter trails near Harrachov.

Do you need mountain experience to reach it? In summer and autumn, it's manageable for averagely fit hikers, but winter conditions call for more caution and preparation.

What's the best base for visiting? Harrachov — a town on the Czech side of the Krkonoše, close to the Polish border, with trails leading toward the peak.