Turov

Turov is a 603-metre table mountain about 5 km northwest of Hronov, within the cadastral area of Rokytník and inside the Broumovsko protected landscape area. As the highest and clearly separated point of the Radvanice highlands, it stands out for its broad, flat summit plateau and unusually complex geology, making it one of the more rewarding hiking destinations in the Jirásek region of eastern Bohemia.

How do you get to Turov?

The most straightforward approach starts in Hronov itself. Follow the red-marked trail to the Maternice crossroads, then switch to the green trail leading straight to the top. The climb is moderate and manageable for most walkers, including families used to longer hikes. Many visitors turn it into a loop: from the summit, the green trail continues past the former military fortification known as Pěchotní srub Turov, then by Maternice u Hronova, the Skalákova spring — reputed for its healing water — and the Zbečnické chleby rock formations, before heading back down to Hronov.

What will you see at the top?

Above all, Turov functions as a crossroads of several marked trails, which makes it a natural starting point for further walks through the quiet, scenic countryside around it. A short distance below the summit stands Jirásek's cottage, a spot favored by the writer Alois Jirásek, who was born in nearby Hronov. Originally built of wood, the cottage still stands as a reminder of how closely the mountain is tied to the writer and his work rooted in this region. Along the loop route, it's worth pausing at the remains of the Pěchotní srub Turov fortification, a trace of pre-war border defenses, and at the Zbečnické chleby rock formations, a popular subject for photographs.

Where does the name come from?

A local legend explains the mountain's name. Hunters chasing a pair of wild aurochs (in Czech, "tur") are said to have driven the animals up the hill, forgetting a calf they had brought along and were playing with at the summit. When the calf's parents spotted the hunters from the bushes, they came out to protect their young, and the frightened hunters fled — over time, the story goes, the wild aurochs grew tame out of devotion to their calf. The mountain is also known as the "Blaník of Jirásek's region": according to local folklore, a legendary company of knights loyal to St. Wenceslas sleeps inside the hill, ready to rise and help the region in its hour of greatest need.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and summer are ideal for Turov, when the trails are dry and the wide, flat summit invites an unhurried walk through greenery. Autumn brings good conditions for photographing the surrounding forests and rock formations in their seasonal colors. Thanks to its moderate elevation, the mountain is accessible nearly year-round, though winter hikers should expect icy or slippery stretches on parts of the trail.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Turov? The summit reaches 603 metres above sea level, making it the highest point of the Radvanice highlands.

How long does the hike from Hronov take? Following the red trail to the Maternice crossroads and then the green trail to the top usually takes around 2–3 hours round trip, depending on pace and stops along the way.

What else is worth seeing besides the summit itself? Jirásek's cottage just below the top, the remains of the Pěchotní srub Turov fortification, the Skalákova spring, and the Zbečnické chleby rock formations.

Is Turov located in a protected area? Yes, the mountain lies within the Broumovsko protected landscape area, which helps keep the surrounding nature largely unspoiled along the route.