Na strašidlech

Na strašidlech is a rocky ridge and a well-known climbing spot in the Krušné hory (Ore Mountains), close to Potůčky, near the border with Horní Blatná. The name translates roughly as "at the ghosts" or "haunted place," and it's a fitting introduction to one of the more atmospheric rock formations in the region.

How to get there?

Potůčky sits right on the German border, in the Rolava river valley at the foot of the Krušné hory. The Na strašidlech rocks lie on a mountain ridge stretching toward Horní Blatná — less than two kilometers from that village's center, reached by a clear, well-trodden forest path. From Potůčky, the easiest approach is by car toward Horní Blatná and then on foot along the marked trail; the wider area is also well connected by hiking routes linking the two villages. Expect typical Krušné hory scenery along the way — forested ridgelines, stony slopes, and wide views toward the border.

What will you see?

Na strašidlech consists of two adjoining, extensive rock outcrops surrounded by boulder fields typical of the Krušné hory, shaped by frost weathering during the interglacial periods of the Quaternary. The rocks themselves are made of hard Paleozoic stone, which erosion has carved into the jagged, dramatic forms visible today. Wall heights range from 6 to 25 meters, making this one of the more recognizable climbing areas in the region.

Climbers will find a varied set of routes here — slabs, cracks, chimneys, small-hold sections known locally as "sokolíky," and a short ridge traverse along the top of the formation. The terrain suits both beginners and more experienced climbers, which is why it has long been popular with climbers from the Karlovy Vary area and visitors from across the German border. Even without climbing gear, it's worth the walk — the rock towers rising out of the forest are striking on their own.

Where does the name come from?

Local legend holds that Na strašidlech is haunted — an easy thing to believe when the fantastical rock shapes catch the light at dusk. The story centers on two brothers who are said to have once found a lump of silver somewhere among these rocks. The discovery reportedly brought them more misfortune than luck, and echoes of the tale still circulate among people living in the surrounding villages, adding a slightly eerie edge to the place.

When to visit?

Spring and summer are the best times to come, when the forest path is dry and the long days leave room to combine a climb with a longer walk along the ridge. Autumn is a good choice for those seeking quieter trails, with fewer visitors and the colorful forests of the Krušné hory adding to the scenery. In winter, the area can be harder to reach because of snow and icy rock faces, so climbing isn't recommended then, though a snowshoe walk can be an interesting alternative.

Frequently asked questions

What is Na strašidlech? It's a pair of extensive rock outcrops on a mountain ridge in the Krušné hory, known mainly as a sport climbing area, with a ghost legend behind its name.

How far is it from Potůčky? The rocks sit on the ridge toward Horní Blatná, less than two kilometers from that village's center; from Potůčky, drive in that direction and continue on foot along the forest path.

Who is the climbing here suitable for? Walls ranging from 6 to 25 meters offer routes of varying difficulty, from easy slabs to demanding chimneys and cracks, so both beginners and experienced climbers will find something here.

Where does the name "Na strašidlech" come from? According to local legend, the place is haunted, and the story is tied to two brothers said to have found a lump of silver here — a discovery that reportedly brought them bad luck, with echoes of the tale persisting to this day.