Čertova stěna-Luč

Čertova stěna-Luč is a national nature reserve stretching along a section of the Vltava River between the towns of Loučovice and Vyšší Brod in southern Bohemia, Czech Republic. Covering 140 hectares, it is one of the most striking landscape features of the Šumava region.

How the reserve came to be

The reserve in its current form was created in 1992 through the merger of two much older protected areas: Čertova stěna, established in 1956 and originally covering just 10 hectares, and Luč, established back in 1934 with 95 hectares. In 2005 the protected territory was further enlarged to include land on the river's right bank as well as the stretch of the Vltava itself between the boulder field and Loučovice, extending protection to the riverbed.

What there is to see

The reserve spans the southeastern slope of Mount Luč (933 metres above sea level) and the western slope of the Čertova stěna ridge. Its defining feature is a canyon-like gorge cut by the Vltava, lined with loose rock scree and containing a riverbed known locally as "Čertovy proudy" — the Devil's Rapids. The most recognisable landmark is the summit cliff of Čertova stěna itself, overlooking an extensive boulder field on the river's right bank.

Getting there and what to do nearby

The summit of Čertova stěna can be reached from a car park on the road connecting Vyšší Brod and Loučovice; venturing further into the boulder field beyond the marked point is prohibited to protect the fragile habitat. Two hiking trails, a cycling route, and a railway line all pass through the reserve, making it an accessible stop for anyone exploring the Šumava region on foot or by bike.

Frequently asked questions

Can visitors climb onto the Čertova stěna rock itself? A marked trail leads to the summit from the car park on the Vyšší Brod–Loučovice road, but going further into the boulder field is not allowed, since the area is under strict nature protection.

Why is this stretch of the river called the "Devil's Rapids"? The name "Čertovy proudy" refers to the rocky, fast-flowing section of the Vltava that runs through the reserve — a stretch considered one of the most difficult natural slalom and canoeing courses in the world.

When did the reserve take its current shape? In 1992, when two older reserves — Čertova stěna from 1956 and Luč from 1934 — were combined into a single, larger protected area, which was then expanded again in 2005.

How can the site be reached? A railway line and the road linking Vyšší Brod and Loučovice both run through the reserve, with a car park available for visitors along with a cycling route through the valley.