Pravčická brána
Pravčická brána is the symbol of the Národní park České Švýcarsko. It is located near the village of Hřensko in Northern Bohemia. This national natural monument is the largest natural rock arch on the European continent. It has stood in its place since time immemorial, formed by a millions-of-years-long process of weathering of the sandstone massif, specifically its lower, less resistant part.
Tourists began to discover the beauty of Pravčická brána, formerly known as Prebischtor, quite early. In the immediate vicinity of the arch, a small bark-covered house served as a taproom at that time. By the end of the 1870s, the access road from Hřensko had been paved, and the promenade trail to Mezní Louka was also established during that period. In 1881, Prince Edmund Clary-Aldringen, the owner of the estate, had the Sokolí hnízdo excursion château built directly at Pravčická brána. Italian builders completed it in almost record time, in a single year. A few years later, railings were added to the surrounding rock viewpoints. Shortly after the restaurant was built, an entrance fee to the area began to be charged. Since Pravčická brána became a tourist attraction, it has demonstrably been visited by millions of people, including famous personalities. The famous writer Hans Christian Andersen visited here not once, but twice, in 1831 and 1851, drawing inspiration for his work.
Until 1980, visitors had the opportunity to climb to the very top of the arch. However, access was prohibited because the presence of people on the rock arch caused accelerated erosion. As a result, this section narrowed by almost a metre, which led to the ban so that the monument would remain for future generations. Even though it is not possible to enjoy the view from the rock bridge itself, the vistas are certainly worth it. Three viewpoints offer beautiful views not only of the arch itself but also of the České Švýcarsko and Saské Švýcarsko regions. They can be reached via maintained trails and staircases that lead directly from the entrance to the area. The first viewpoint is located directly below the rock arch and will enchant visitors with its unique atmosphere. From the second viewpoint, Pravčická brána and the Sokolí hnízdo château can be seen in their full beauty, as well as the Křídelní stěny and the Pravčický kužel. The third viewpoint offers a view of the Dlouhodolské stěny.
Sokolí hnízdo, an excursion château in the Alpine style, is inextricably linked to Pravčická brána. In the past, it served as accommodation for important guests of the princely family. Today, it houses a stylish period restaurant, decorated with original wall panelling and paintings. In addition, the château is home to the museum of the Národní park České Švýcarsko and an information centre. The first floor of the building is dedicated to an exhibition of photographs of the local nature by Julius Pufler.
Pravčická brána can be reached either from Hřensko or Mezní Louka. If Hřensko is chosen as the starting point, a red tourist trail leads for about 2 km along the road towards Mezní Louka, then at Tři prameny, the trail enters the forest and continues with a gentle ascent for about 2.5 km to the national natural monument. A red trail also leads from Mezní Louka along the Gabrielina stezka; an undulating trail about 6 km long with beautiful views awaits visitors. Parking areas can be found in both Hřensko and Mezní Louka.
Visitors may wonder if there is surely more to see here besides Pravčická brána. And that is correct. Two nearby gorges, Divoká soutěska and Edmundova soutěska, also deserve attention. Explore also the CHKO Labské pískovce and the entire Národní park České Švýcarsko, including Malá Pravčická brána, Růžovský vrch, the rock ravine Úzké schody, or the Jetřichovické stěny. Is a bit of an urban environment desired? Head to Děčín, which has two landmarks: a château and the Pastýřská stěna with a viewpoint. Families with children will also be well entertained here, as a visit to the zoological garden or the aquapark will certainly be an experience.
Excitement for discovering this beauty is certainly shared. Plan a multi-day holiday with accommodation near Pravčická brána. In the surrounding area, stylish cottages and cosy guesthouses can be found, as well as comfortable hotels or chalets in a peaceful setting. When searching, various directions can be chosen; accommodation capacities are offered by Hřensko, Janov, Arnoltice, or Jetřichovice, and various rooms or apartments can also be found in Děčín. Pravčická brána and the entire České Švýcarsko region boast a unique beauty that is worth seeing with one's own eyes. Start planning your stay right now by browsing our accommodation offer!
