Český ráj Protected Landscape Area

Český ráj Protected Landscape Area, known internationally as Bohemian Paradise, is one of the oldest protected areas in the Czech Republic. Established in 1955, it was the very first Protected Landscape Area designated in the former Czechoslovakia. Located in northeastern Bohemia between the towns of Turnov, Jičín and Mnichovo Hradiště, the region earned its poetic name back in the 19th century, thanks to its picturesque scenery at the foothills of the Krkonoše (Giant) Mountains and its many castles and chateaus built among dramatic sandstone rocks.

What makes Bohemian Paradise distinctive?

At the heart of the area lie its famous "rock towns" — extensive sandstone formations riddled with narrow corridors, labyrinths and natural stone bridges. Hundreds of thousands of years of water, wind and frost erosion have carved rock towers reaching up to 60 meters in height. The territory has a turbulent geological past: it has repeatedly been covered by ancient seas and lakes, with volcanic activity occurring on several occasions throughout its history. That layered history is what produced today's landscape of wild rock formations, extinct volcanoes, karst phenomena, rivers, romantic valleys, forests, meadows and ponds.

In 2005, the original protected landscape area was expanded through the creation of the Bohemian Paradise Geopark, which now covers more than 700 km² and holds UNESCO Global Geopark status.

Which sites are worth visiting?

Among the most recognizable spots in the region is Prachovské skály (Prachov Rocks) — the most famous rock formation in Bohemian Paradise, located less than 10 km northwest of Jičín and a favorite destination for climbers from across the country. Equally iconic is Trosky Castle, whose twin towers rise dramatically atop two basalt volcanic plugs, making it one of the region's most photographed landmarks.

Near Turnov lies Hrubá Skála, a small village with a castle and an adjoining rock city, serving as a popular starting or finishing point for numerous hiking trails, including a route leading to Valdštejn Castle.

Karlovice as a starting point

Karlovice-Sedmihorky is one of the trailheads used for exploring the region on foot. A popular, if demanding, roughly 12 km loop trail leads from here to a viewpoint near Hrubá Skála Castle and continues to the Mariánská vyhlídka (Marian Viewpoint), offering panoramic views over the surrounding rock formations and forests.

Frequently asked questions

Is Bohemian Paradise suitable for a day trip from Prague? The region sits about two hours' drive from Prague, making it a popular day-trip destination, although the sheer number of trails and attractions leads many visitors to stay longer.

Can the sandstone rock towns be explored independently, without a guide? Yes, most rock towns and viewpoints are accessible via marked hiking trails, although some rock sections are reserved exclusively for climbers.

What sets Bohemian Paradise apart from other protected areas in the Czech Republic? Its defining feature is the combination of unique sandstone geology with a dense concentration of historic sites — castles and chateaus built directly on or alongside the rock formations.

How large is the protected area? The Protected Landscape Area itself covers 181 km², while the associated Bohemian Paradise Geopark extends across more than 700 km².