Stožec

Stožec is a distinctive, cone-shaped peak in the Lusatian Mountains (Lužické hory) in the Czech Republic, rising about 3 km south of the village of Lesná. Its regular, haystack-like shape makes it one of the more recognizable summits in this part of the country and a popular target for hikers looking for a short but rewarding climb.

Where is Stožec located?

The peak sits on the eastern edge of a sandstone ridge stretching between Jedlová railway station and the Stožecké sedlo saddle. It belongs to a small group of hills known locally as the Konopáče (or Jelení kameny) ridge — three neighboring summits, of which Stožec is the easternmost. The summit itself lies within the cadastral territory of the village of Svor, while the wider massif straddles the border between the Děčín and Česká Lípa districts. Notably, the main European watershed between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea runs along this very ridge, meaning rain falling on one side of the mountain and the other ends up in entirely different drainage basins.

Lesná, the village closest to the peak, is a small settlement near Nový Bor, right in the heart of the Lusatian Mountains — a region known for its distinctive basalt "haystack" hills and sandstone rock formations.

How do you get to the summit?

A green-marked hiking trail crosses Stožec, with a side branch leading to the Jelení kámen ("Deer Rock") rock formation. The most convenient starting point is the Stožecké sedlo saddle, crossed by the I/9 main road — from there, the round trip to the summit typically takes a little over an hour. Alternative starting points include Jedlová railway station or the small settlement of Nová Huť, about 1.5 km from the peak. The village of Svor, which also has trails leading up, lies roughly 5 km to the south.

Given its short distance from Nový Bor, a hike up Stožec pairs well with a visit to that town, known for its glassmaking tradition and several other viewpoints in the surrounding area.

What will you see there?

The summit, reaching an elevation of around 665 metres, is built of basalt (olivinite) and has a strikingly regular, cone-like shape — hence the frequent comparisons to a haystack. Its slopes are covered by sparse beech woodland, through which the path to the top winds. This rocky, volcanic character sets Stožec apart visually from the sandstone formations that dominate much of the surrounding Lusatian Mountains, and that contrast is part of what makes it a worthwhile stop on a longer hike.

An additional highlight nearby is the Jelení kámen rock formation, reached via the side trail — well worth combining with the ascent of the main summit to make a longer, half-day loop.

When is the best time to visit?

The most rewarding months for a visit run from May to October, when the trails are dry and the beech forest on the slopes looks its best — fresh green in spring, gold and red in autumn. Winter ascents are possible, but hikers should be prepared for icy stretches on the steeper, cone-shaped sections of the path.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Stožec? The peak rises to roughly 665 metres above sea level and is built of basalt, which sets it apart from the sandstone hills typical of the Lusatian Mountains.

Where's the best place to start the hike? Most visitors start from the Stožecké sedlo saddle on road I/9 or from Jedlová railway station — both are linked to the summit by a green-marked trail.

Are there other attractions nearby? Yes — a side trail leads to the Jelení kámen rock formation, and the town of Nový Bor, known for its glassmaking heritage and several viewpoints, is close by.

How long does the climb take? From the Stožecké sedlo saddle, the round trip usually takes a little over an hour, making Stožec a good target for a short afternoon hike.