Petřkovická hora

Petřkovická hora is a modest but distinctive hill near Janovice, part of the Starý Jičín municipality, sitting at the northwestern edge of the Podbeskydí region and its rolling upland. The summit reaches 608 metres above sea level and lies roughly 6 km southwest of Nový Jičín, just a kilometre east of the village of Petřkovice, which gave the hill its name. It makes an easy half-day trip, well suited to families and anyone after a gentle walk that ends with a rewarding view.

How do you get to the top?

The shortest and most popular approach starts in Petřkovice and follows a yellow-marked trail. After about a kilometre, the path passes a small pilgrimage site known as the Petřkovice Lourdes, a modest shrine tucked among the trees that makes an interesting stop in its own right. From there it's another half kilometre of fairly steep climbing to the summit. In total, the ascent covers about 1.5 km with an elevation gain of around 220 metres, so despite the short distance, sturdy footwear is worth having.

Janovice, lying south of the centre of Starý Jičín, connects to Petřkovice via local roads and paths, making it a convenient starting point for anyone staying in the area who wants to reach the marked trail.

What will you see at the summit?

The slopes of Petřkovická hora are mostly wooded, but the summit itself has been partly cleared, opening up views in several directions. To the north, you can spot the ruins of Starý Jičín Castle perched scenically above the surrounding hills. Looking east, the silhouette of Štramberk appears alongside Bílá hora, one of the region's best-known landmarks. It's this contrast between dense forest and an open summit that makes the short hike memorable.

When is the best time to visit?

Thanks to its moderate elevation and the mild microclimate of Podbeskydí, the trail is accessible almost year-round. In spring and summer, the green forest contrasts with the open summit; in autumn, the surrounding hills turn colourful; and in winter, on clear days, views toward Štramberk and beyond can be especially crisp. It's best to avoid days with heavy fog, which is common in this part of Moravia during autumn and winter, since the payoff view may simply not appear.

Who is this hike suited for?

The route requires no special fitness or hiking gear — it's a typical half-day outing that pairs well with a visit to Starý Jičín itself, Štramberk, or Nový Jičín. Petřkovická hora also works well as a starting point for longer walks across the Podbeskydí upland for those looking for a more extended route.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Petřkovická hora? The summit reaches 608 metres above sea level, making it a gentle climb suitable for beginner hikers.

How long does the climb to the top take? From Petřkovice, the trail covers about 1.5 km with an elevation gain of roughly 220 metres — the one-way walk usually takes 40 to 60 minutes depending on pace.

What's worth stopping for along the way? The Petřkovice Lourdes pilgrimage site, passed about a kilometre along the yellow trail from Petřkovice, is worth a short stop.

Can you reach the summit directly from Janovice? Janovice sits on the approach road to Petřkovice, where the marked trail begins — a convenient jumping-off point for anyone staying in the village.