Krtské skály

Krtské skály is a nature monument covering nearly 89 hectares of forest in the Rakovník district of the Czech Republic, right next to the village of Krty. The protected area was designated in 2002, with its highest point reaching 525 meters above sea level. It combines a geological curiosity with a history of stone quarrying and a quiet forest landscape, making it appealing both to nature enthusiasts and to anyone looking for an unhurried walk away from crowds.

What can you see at Krtské skály?

The heart of the area is a series of weathered granite outcrops, scattered boulders, and boulder fields (scree) shaped by centuries of erosion. The granite here belongs to the so-called Jeseník type — a dense, hard variety of rock long valued as a building material. The forest also hides traces of past human activity: old quarries where stone was extracted well into the 19th century.

What is the history of granite quarrying here?

In the central part of the area lies a now-flooded upper quarry, a remnant of once-intensive stone extraction. The granite mined here had a strong reputation and was used in several notable constructions, including the Legion Bridge (Most Legií) in Prague, the chateau in Krásný Dvůr, and the church in Žatec. This history is part of what makes Krtské skály worth a visit beyond its natural features — it's also a record of the region's stone-cutting craft.

How do you get there, and what else is worth seeing nearby?

A blue-marked hiking trail leads to Krtské skály from the village of Krty. An educational nature trail also runs through the area, linking its most interesting points with information panels that explain both the geology and the local mining history. Marked side paths lead to the upper quarry and to the legendary Devil's Stone (Čertův kámen), located just beyond the reserve's northern boundary — it's worth setting aside extra time for it, since it's one of the more distinctive stops along the route.

Who is this place good for?

Krtské skály makes for a solid day-trip destination for families with children — the educational trail helps explain what you're looking at, and the route doesn't demand advanced fitness. Geology enthusiasts will appreciate the close-up views of granite outcrops and quarry remains, while nature photographers can make the most of the boulder-strewn forest scenery, especially in the softer light of early morning or late afternoon.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Krtské skály located? It lies in the Rakovník district of the Czech Republic, directly next to the village of Krty.

How large is the protected area? The nature monument covers roughly 88.8 hectares of forest.

Since when has the area been protected? It has held protected status since 2002.

Why is this site protected? Mainly for its granite rock outcrops, boulder fields, and the remains of historic quarries that once produced the prized Jeseník-type granite.

Can you reach it on foot? Yes — a blue-marked hiking trail runs there from Krty, and an educational trail with information panels crosses the protected area itself.

Is there anything worth seeing beyond the reserve itself? Just past the northern boundary stands the Devil's Stone, a popular add-on stop for visitors exploring Krtské skály.