Dutý kámen

Dutý kámen is a small but strikingly unusual natural feature located near the town of Cvikov, in the Česká Lípa district of the Liberec Region in the Czech Republic. This sandstone rock ridge stretches for roughly 600 meters and rises about 30 meters above the surrounding terrain, forming an elongated crest that stands out clearly against the landscape.

What makes this site so distinctive?

The uniqueness of Dutý kámen lies in its unusual geological structure. In certain sections, the sandstone has broken down into small, angular columns — four-, five- and six-sided pillars just 2 to 5 centimeters wide and up to 3 meters tall. Arranged in a fan-like pattern and resembling bundles of grain, these formations gave rise to local nicknames such as "vějíř" (fan) and "varhany" (organ). They were formed by the effect of hot basaltic magma on the sandstone — a geological phenomenon rarely seen in this part of Europe, which is why the site continues to draw the attention of geologists and nature enthusiasts alike.

What can visitors explore along the ridge?

Walking along the rock crest, visitors encounter several notable spots. One is Karolínin odpočinek, a viewing platform with a stone bench decorated with a crown-shaped relief. Nearby stands an octagonal stone table fitted with a sundial and orientation plaques, making it a natural resting point along the trail. Carved into the rock face in 1913 is a relief featuring a bust of the poet Theodor Körner, which has been protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic since 1996. The route also passes an old pathway with remnants of steps cut directly into the rock, and the wider area includes other viewpoints such as Broad Stone (reached via 38 steps carved into the stone), the rock spire known as Sloupská jehla, and the elevation called Šustrova hůl.

How long has the site been protected?

The natural value of Dutý kámen was recognized as early as the beginning of the 20th century, when a local association first placed it under protection in 1914. Protection was reaffirmed after World War II, in 1955, and since 1963 the site has held official status as a natural monument. Since 2003, it has been administered by the Regional Office of the Liberec Region.

How do you get to Dutý kámen?

The natural monument sits on the right-hand side of road I/13, which runs from Cvikov toward Jablonné v Podještědí, near the village of Drnovec. Thanks to its proximity to this main road, the site is easy to reach both by car and on foot for those exploring the wider Lusatian Mountains area.

Frequently asked questions

Is Dutý kámen suitable for a family walk? The route along the rock ridge is relatively short and undemanding, though some sections involve steps cut into the rock, which is worth keeping in mind when visiting with small children.

What does the name "Dutý kámen" mean? Literally translated, it means "hollow stone," referring to the characteristic hollowed-out rock formations found along the ridge.

Is there really a sundial on site? Yes, the octagonal stone table along the trail features a sundial together with orientation plaques, making it one of the ridge's distinctive landmarks.