Špičák

Špičák is a distinctive hill on the northern edge of Česká Lípa, rising to 446 metres above sea level. It's not an imposing height, but its silhouette is visible from far away, and the lookout tower on its summit has served as a local landmark for well over a century. It's a popular short hike or bike destination for locals and visitors looking for an easy outing near town.

How do you get to Špičák?

The hill sits just 1–2 km from the centre of Česká Lípa, making it an easy walk or short bike ride. A blue-marked hiking trail leads from town up a gentle wooded slope, and the one-way walk usually takes about 20–30 minutes depending on your pace and route. Drivers can park at the base of the hill, leaving only a short walk to reach the top.

What will you find at the top?

At the summit stands a 14-metre stone lookout tower, built between 1884 and 1885 on the initiative of the North Bohemian Excursion Club (Severočeský exkursní klub), designed by architect Gottlieb Alber. It was ceremonially reopened on 28 August 1887 and quickly became a popular attraction — in 1906 alone, some 2,500 visitors signed the guestbook, a sign of how significant a destination it once was in the region.

It's worth knowing, though, that the tower is not open to the public today. For years it was leased to telecommunications companies, and in 1997 it was purchased by Real Invest, a company owned by entrepreneur Tomislav Procházka. The tower was renovated and converted into a radio transmitter and mobile phone base station, which meant closing it off to visitors. Even so, the climb up the hill and a walk around the tower remain a worthwhile outing, and the surrounding forest and summit offer a quiet escape from the town below.

At the foot of Špičák, a nature trail (naučná stezka) was established in 2008, introducing visitors to the history and natural surroundings of the area. It's a good option for families with children and anyone interested in the local flora and geology.

When should you visit?

Špičák can be visited year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most pleasant conditions for walking or cycling, with moderate temperatures and fewer crowds in the woods. In summer, families often come for bike outings, while in winter, weather permitting, the trails are pleasant for a snowy walk. Since the tower itself is closed, the main draw here is the walk and the surrounding nature rather than the view from above.

Frequently asked questions

Can you climb the lookout tower on Špičák? No, the tower is currently closed to visitors — it now serves as a telecommunications transmitter and has no public access.

How far is Špičák from the centre of Česká Lípa? The hill is about 1–2 km from town, and the walk along the blue trail usually takes 20–30 minutes.

Can you cycle up to Špičák? Yes, the route to the hill is suitable for both hiking and cycling.

What else is worth seeing near Špičák? At the base of the hill you'll find a nature trail (naučná stezka) established in 2008, which highlights the area's history and natural surroundings — a good addition to a visit to the summit.