Svatý Bernard

Svatý Bernard is a small but distinctive natural monument located in the municipality of Chudenín, in the Klatovy District of the Czech Republic. The site owes its name and local renown to an unusual cluster of rock formations that has drawn hikers and nature lovers to this corner of the Bohemian Forest foothills for generations.

What can visitors see here?

The main reason for protecting this area is its exposed rock outcrops made of amphibolitic gabbronorite, a magmatic rock for which this particular site serves as the type locality of the Kdyně Massif — meaning geologists use these very outcrops as the reference point when describing this rock type across the wider region. Thousands of years of erosion have produced a striking grouping of boulders and rock blocks arranged in a way that resembles a natural sanctuary. At the center of this formation stand two boulders resembling menhirs, which today serve as the main landmark for visitors exploring the site.

What is the history behind this place?

The rocks of Svatý Bernard also carry a layer of historical memory. In the past, memorial plaques dedicated to those who died during the world wars were mounted on the stones. Over time these original plaques deteriorated or were removed, but renewed versions were later reinstalled on the rocks, restoring the site's role as a local place of remembrance. As a result, Svatý Bernard combines two distinct layers of significance — natural and historical — rarely found together on such a small scale.

A few dozen meters from the natural monument itself stands the Medvědí kaple svatého Bernarda (the Bear Chapel of Saint Bernard), dating from the late 18th century. Though modest in size, the chapel is a notable stop along the walking paths through the area and makes a natural destination for a short excursion combined with viewing the rocks.

Who is this destination for?

Svatý Bernard suits visitors looking for a quiet, undemanding hiking destination that combines an interesting rock formation with a small but historically rich chapel. It is also worth a stop for anyone with an interest in geology, since its status as the type locality for the amphibolitic gabbronorite of the Kdyně Massif makes it a point of reference for understanding the geological structure of the wider Bohemian Forest region.

Frequently asked questions

What can be found at the Svatý Bernard natural monument? A distinctive cluster of boulders and rock formations made of amphibolitic gabbronorite, including two boulders resembling menhirs, along with memorial plaques for those who died in the world wars.

Is there anything else worth seeing nearby? Yes — a few dozen meters from the rocks stands the Medvědí kaple svatého Bernarda, a chapel dating from the late 18th century.

Why is this site protected? Because of its rock outcrops of amphibolitic gabbronorite, which represent the type locality for the Kdyně Massif and hold significant geological value for the region.

Where is Svatý Bernard located? In the municipality of Chudenín, in the Klatovy District, in the western part of the Czech Republic, near the foothills of the Bohemian Forest (Český les).