Rozhledna Janovský vrch

Janovský vrch Lookout Tower rises 40 meters above a gentle hill on the edge of the village of Janov, right in the heart of Bohemian Switzerland, roughly 15 km north of Děčín. It's one of the region's newer viewpoints, yet it has quickly become a favorite stop for hikers — and it's completely free to visit year-round.

How do you get there?

A yellow-marked hiking trail connects the tower to Hřensko, the picturesque village at the confluence of the Elbe and Kamenice rivers that serves as the main gateway to Bohemian Switzerland National Park. The walk winds through forests and meadows and is manageable for most visitors, including families with children. If you'd rather skip the hike, you can drive and park near the village of Janov or by the Janov Golf Club, leaving only a short walk to the tower itself.

What can you see from the viewing platform?

The tower stands 40 meters tall overall, with the observation deck positioned at 30 meters. A spiral staircase of 160 steps winds up through the interior to reach it — the climb takes a bit of stamina, but the view at the top makes it worthwhile. From the platform you get sweeping views of the region's signature rock formations: Děčínský Sněžník, the Stříbrné stěny (Silver Walls), the famous Pravčická Gate, and Růžovský vrch. On clear days the visibility extends much further, revealing parts of the Lusatian Mountains and the table mountains of Saxony across the German border.

Where did this tower come from?

The Janov lookout tower opened in December 2013, and its origin story is a little different from most rozhlednas. It was built as an investment by the mobile operator Vodafone, aiming to improve cell signal coverage for Janov and the surrounding villages. Local authorities quickly recognized the tourism potential of the structure and opened it to visitors free of charge, turning a telecom project into a dual-purpose landmark.

When is the best time to visit?

The tower is open year-round at no cost, with one important exception: it closes when temperatures drop below -10°C or when dangerous ice forms on the structure, for safety reasons. Spring and autumn tend to offer the clearest air and the longest sightlines, while summer brings more foot traffic along the trail and around the tower itself.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? No, the tower is freely accessible year-round, except when closed due to extreme cold or icing.

How many steps lead to the top? The spiral staircase inside the tower has 160 steps up to the viewing platform.

Can I drive close to the tower? Yes, parking is available near the village of Janov and by the Janov Golf Club, both a short walk from the tower.

What's the view like from the top? You'll see the iconic rock formations of Bohemian Switzerland — Děčínský Sněžník, the Stříbrné stěny, Pravčická Gate, and Růžovský vrch — with the Lusatian Mountains and Saxon table mountains visible on clear days.