Lookout towers in Czechia

Are visitors planning a hiking trip along the Vltava River and would they like to view it from a bird's-eye perspective? In that case, visitors are gladly invited to the Máj viewpoint in Krňany-Netvořice, which is located in romantic nature above the former Svatojánské proudy. This part of the river was quite demanding for timber raftsmen who floated wood to Prague. However, tourists with good physical fitness do not need to mind the local terrain here. All the more so since the construction of the Štěchovice dam brought an end to the existence of these rapids. In the event that visitors decide to visit the Máj viewpoint, it is sufficient to follow the yellow tourist markings leading from the village of Teletín.

The viewpoint is very popular among travelers because it is said to provide the nicest view of the river. Therefore, it is not by chance that photographers who want to capture the local scenery in their nature photographs appear here quite frequently.

In the event that visitors decide to seek accommodation near the Máj viewpoint in local guesthouses, apartments, or one of the surrounding farms, other trips in the neighborhood should also be planned. Wandering along the Svatojánské proudy educational trail will be a good choice. Moreover, the Myšák and Mařenka viewpoints are also located in the immediate vicinity of Máj. Therefore, visitors should carefully consider whether they will also want to view the Vltava River from other angles.

Gothic castle tower with a view

Štramberská Trúba is the remnant of the 13th-century Strallenberg medieval castle, the origin of which is associated with the Benešovic or Přemyslid dynasties. The 40-metre-high tower dominates the picturesque town of Štramberk, nicknamed the "Moravian Bethlehem". The tower acquired its present appearance with a characteristic wooden gallery during a reconstruction in 1903, following a design by the architect Kamil Hilbert.

Today, Trúba serves as a popular observation tower offering breathtaking views of the Beskydy and Jeseníky mountain ranges, as well as the Moravská brána. The castle grounds also function as a cultural centre. Below the tower stands Jaroňkova útulna, a folk-style wooden structure that previously served as a tourist hostel.

Access

The tower can be reached on foot from Náměstí Štramberk via a steeper paved path or steps around Jaroňkova útulna. Parking is available at the central car park below the square. The "Štramberk, nám." bus stop is within walking distance. The "Štramberk" railway station is located about 1 km from the centre.

What is worth discovering

Directly in Štramberk, visitors are recommended to taste traditional Štramberské uši, a local gingerbread specialty. Not far from the square lies the world-famous Šipka cave, where the remains of a Neanderthal child were discovered. The Botanical Garden and Arboretum in the old limestone quarry are also well worth a visit.

Štramberská Trúba is an icon of the region, combining history, architecture, and magnificent views. It represents an ideal trip destination for the entire family.

Since 2012, visitors have been able to admire views of the Valašsko region from the heights of the Miloňová Lookout Tower. It is located in the Zlín Region, in the Vsetín District near the town of Velké Karlovice. It was built at an altitude of 846 metres above sea level, and from it, visitors can see not only a large part of the Beskids, but also the Javorníky mountain range. A green tourist trail leads to the lookout tower, so visitors certainly cannot miss it. Visitors can also connect here to the yellow trail, which guides them along the ridges of the Vsetínské vrchy hills.

It is a hexagonal wooden lookout tower with a concrete base, designed by architect Antonín Závada, the author of the better-known project of the Jurkovičova rozhledna in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm. The Miloňová Lookout Tower rises to a height of 20 metres, while the roof is another four metres higher. The viewing platform is circular, so visitors will have a truly magnificent view in all directions. Visitors can set off here all year round, because thanks to its stable structure, adverse weather conditions do not bother the lookout tower. Furthermore, in fine weather, even children will enjoy the journey, as around the lookout tower they can walk a children's tourist trail named Hledej poklad na Galiku.

As the location of the Miloňová Lookout Tower implies, several tourist trails with attractive destinations are immediately available here for visitors. It is sufficient to book accommodation near the Miloňová Lookout Tower, and it does not matter whether it will be apartments, cottages, or a guesthouse. From any accommodation in the surrounding area, visitors can set off somewhere else every day. For example, Vsetín or Nový Hrozenkov can serve as a starting point for visitors. However, visitors can just as easily stay in Karolinka or Hovězí. Visitors should simply be careful on some tourist trails and take their identity card or passport with them, as the local trails often extend into Slovakia.

Once visitors have had enough of walking in the mountains, it will certainly come in handy to refresh themselves at the Velké Karlovice swimming pool. Conversely, if visitors have arrived during the winter season, they should certainly make use of one of the Beskid ski resorts, for example the Razula ski resort or Synot Kyčerka. At any time of the year, the Karlovské muzeum and the Muzeum sklářství Karolinka are worth a visit. Should visitors also desire culture, they are invited to check out the programme of the Valašské národní divadlo. Whatever visitors ultimately decide, they will thoroughly enjoy nature, entertainment, and knowledge here.

Wooden tower with a view of the central parts of Šumava

Rozhledna Churáňov stands on the Sokol hill (1,253 metres) near the village of Stachy in the Prachatice district in the Jihočeský kraj. This modern wooden tower, approximately thirty metres high, was opened in 2010. Its observation deck offers an extensive circular view of the central and highest parts of Šumava, the dominant peaks of Boubín and Javorník, the vast Šumavské pláně, and in clear weather, even the Alps. The tower is an ideal destination for hiking and cross-country skiing in winter.

Access

A well-maintained road leads to the lookout tower from the village of Stachy (accessible from road number 4). It is recommended to park at the paid car park with sufficient capacity, which is located in the Churáňov ski resort near Hotel Churáňov. From there, it is an easy ascent along a forest path approximately one kilometre long, following the yellow tourist marker, which leads slightly uphill. The nearest bus stop, Stachy, is less than five kilometres away.

What is worth exploring

Nearby is the extensive CHKO Šumava with the dominant Boubínský prales and Boubín with its lookout tower. Less than twenty kilometres to the south lies Jezero Laka and hrad Kašperk. It is also worth visiting the Muzeum Šumavy in Kašperské Hory and Rozhledna Javorník.

In the Semily District, south of Lomnice nad Popelkou, stands Allainova věž. It served as a hunting seat for the lords of the Rohan family and is now used as a lookout tower. From its gallery, there are beautiful views of the local hills and the town of Jičín. The tower was dedicated to the tragically deceased young Prince Allain.

The lookout tower was built in the neo-Gothic style within the local Rohan game preserve. This was brought about by Kamil Josef Rohan, who commissioned the architect Josef Pruvot to draw up a plan for the opulent hunting seat. Costs climbed to 1,714 florins, and construction was completed in 1862. It has an octagonal floor plan covering an area of more than 30 m². The tower is single-storeyed, made of stone, 10.5 m high, and stands at an altitude of 540 m above sea level. Various inscriptions are placed here, one of which is connected to the tragic event involving the nephew of Kamil Josef Rohan, Prince Allain. He fell from a horse during a hunt and died (he was 28 years old). Kamil Josef Rohan suffered from remorse because when Allain's father (the brother of Kamil Josef Rohan) was dying, he promised to look after the young prince. However, he failed to fulfil this. Therefore, he dedicated the tower to the memory of his nephew. In 1945, based on the Beneš decrees, the property was confiscated from the Rohans, the tower was used as animal feed storage, and subsequently, it was completely abandoned. It suffered from vandalism and general decay. In 2013, when it almost became a ruin, it came into the ownership of Lomnice nad Popelkou. The town began its extensive reconstruction, and the surroundings of the lookout tower were also landscaped. Information boards, benches, and bicycle racks were installed.

The lookout tower can be found along the path leading from the Kyje u Jičína railway station, which has yellow tourist markings, and from the crossroads along the blue markings (1.5 km). The route is also cyclable. Near the viewpoint, visitors can admire a memorial oak tree and refresh themselves at the local spring.

Near Lomnice nad Popelkou, many interesting places to visit can be found. Hrad Trosky, the Válečné muzeum Újezd pod Troskami, or the Lyžařský areál Lomnice nad Popelkou should not be missed. For a stay, accommodation is offered in the vicinity of Allainova věž with direct reservation with the owner. The Semilsko region provides wonderful accommodation not only in cottages and chalets, guesthouses, and hotels.

A panoramic view from the Jestřebí hory mountains

Built on the Markoušovický hřeben ridge (708 m a.s.l.) near Trutnov, Radvanice, and Velké Svatoňovice, the Slavětínská rozhledna observation tower offers a vivid view of the landscape. It was established in 2014 on the initiative of Lesy ČR, reaches a height of approximately 22–23 m, and the observation platform is located at a height of 18 m. The tower combines wooden elements with a steel structure and a spiral staircase with oak railings and flooring. A wooden sculpture of a hawk is placed above the main pillar of the tower. The area is complemented by a gazebo, information boards, and a sandstone memorial stone.

What the lookout reveals

The observation tower offers a unique 360° view of the diverse landscape. In clear weather, it is possible to see the panorama of the Krkonoše mountains, including Sněžka, Luční hora, and Žalý. The horizon is further lined by Rýchory, Javoří hory and Soví hory, Adršpašsko-teplické skály, Broumovské stěny, Stolové hory, and Králický Sněžník. With good visibility, one can see as far as more distant points, such as Kunětická hora or Poříčí.

Who is this place designed for

The lookout is an ideal destination for lovers of mountain landscapes, panoramic views, and photography. It is suitable for both hikers and cyclists who wish to experience a view of the surrounding nature without the need for a demanding ascent. Marked trails lead to the observation tower, for example from Trutnov (following the green trail, approx. 3.6 km) or from Palkovice and Paseky. Part of the journey can be completed by car, followed by only a short walk along the green trail. Due to the nature of the site, entry with dogs is not permitted.

How to get here and what your visit will bring

Parking is available near the villages of Radvanice or Lhota. This is followed by a marked ascent (green route) or a relaxing trip on a mountain bike. With a dreamlike view, you can expect not only relaxation but also a connection with the forest silence and the history of post-war recreation in the Jestřebí hory mountains.

A lookout that will take you higher than your thoughts

The Slavětínská rozhledna observation tower combines natural beauty with architecture in harmony. Every step up is a journey to a view that delights the eyes and the soul. And you will see the mountains from a truly different perspective.

Žaltman Lookout Tower – views over the Jestřebí Mountains

On the highest peak of the Jestřebí Mountains, Žaltman Hill (739 m a.s.l.), a steel lookout tower about 22 meters high has stood since 2020. It replaced the original 1967 structure and today is one of the region’s most remarkable viewpoints for anyone seeking a breathtaking panorama.
 

What you will discover here – four viewing platforms with circular views

• A steel structure with a spiral staircase leading 120 steps up to the highest viewing deck at 23.5 m
• Four platforms offer sweeping circular views of the Krkonoše Mountains, Rýchory, Orlické Mountains, Broumov Walls, Adršpach-Teplice Rocks, Javoří Mountains, Ostaš, Table Mountains, Králický Sněžník, and more

Who the tower is for

• Nature lovers, view seekers, and admirers of mountain panoramas
• Tourists and cyclists who enjoy a summit view without the need for high physical effort
• Accessible from Malé Svatoňovice (approx. 4 km), Radvanice (4 km), or Odolov (8 km) via marked trails
• Entry with dogs is not allowed

How to get here and what to know
You can park at Malé Svatoňovice, Radvanice, or Odolov. From there, the route follows the blue and then green marked trails up to the tower. The trail is partly accessible by bike.

A view that unfolds before you
Žaltman Lookout Tower is a place where the mountain landscape opens in its full breadth. The Jestřebí Mountains and surrounding peaks spread out before you like a painting you will never forget.

Rozhledna Kraví hora near Bořetice is set in a picturesque landscape interwoven with countless cycle paths and vineyards. It is therefore no little wonder that it ranks among the most popular destinations for people who love sports and high-quality Moravian wine. An interesting feature is also the fact that the Olbramy hill, upon which it towers, is in the immediate vicinity of the whimsical Svobodná spolková republika Kraví hora. Consequently, for those with a sense of humour, this micro-territory can be explored from a bird's-eye view and subsequently visited in person.

The lookout tower was built in 2006 on a hill with an elevation of 272 metres above sea level, which means that even though the platform stands at a mere 12 metres, visitors will enjoy an unobstructed view of the surrounding countryside. Bringing a camera along on the way up is certainly recommended, as Pálava and the Novomlýnské nádrže reservoirs will lie directly opposite, naturally inviting nature photography. Furthermore, a smaller chapel decorated with folk Slovácko motifs stands at the base of the viewpoint.

A further point of interest is that the initial impulse for the construction of the lookout tower was a victory in the 2005 Village of the Year competition. When travelling towards it, by following the yellow tourist trail, visitors will pass wine cellars that might tempt them to taste some of the local produce. However, if advice may be offered, this activity is best postponed, as reaching the viewing platform requires climbing 65 steps, a feat that might prove somewhat challenging after a glass or two.

This tourist destination can be reached both from Bořetice and from nearby municipalities such as Vrbice and Němčičky. This makes it easy to secure comfortable accommodation near the Rozhledna Kraví hora away from the unpleasant bustle of the town. Countless wine guesthouses, suitable for celebrations and weddings alike, or private lodgings await visitors in the surrounding area. Afterwards, quality relaxation can be pursued by heading to the nearby Arboretum Němčičky, which is likewise well worth a visit. Visitors are invited to tune in to new experiences and come and enjoy their well-deserved leisure time here.

Unique spiral-shaped structure with a view of the Beskids

The Rozhledna Bílá hora is located on the summit of Bílá hora (557 meters) near the historic town of Štramberk in the Moravskoslezský kraj. It was ceremoniously opened in 2000 and is unique for its architecture, which resembles a DNA helix. The lookout tower, designed by architect Milan Šmída, has a height of thirty-six meters and is accessed by one hundred and sixty-five steps. From the viewing platform, a circular and panoramic view is offered of the Podbeskydská pahorkatina region, the Moravskoslezské Beskydy (dominated by Lysá hora), the Oderské vrchy, and the picturesque town of Štramberk with the Štramberská trúba tower.

Access

Visitors can reach the lookout tower by car from the I/58 road leading from Štramberk. A free parking lot is available for visitors near the foot of the mountain, from where a mildly rising asphalt road about eight hundred meters long leads to the lookout tower. The most popular pedestrian access is directly from the center of Štramberk along the yellow tourist trail, which leads through the Šipka natural monument. The nearest bus stop, Štramberk, náměstí, is located approximately one and a half kilometers away. The lookout tower is open year-round.

What is worth discovering

The dominant feature of the immediate surroundings is Hrad Štramberk with the aforementioned Štramberská trúba tower. In the town of Štramberk, visitors can view historic wooden houses and taste the local specialty – Štramberské uši. South of the mountain is the Muzeum Tatra Kopřivnice, dedicated to the history of the automotive company. Nearby is also the Kamenný vrch natural monument and the Šipka cave, known for the discovery of a Neanderthal jawbone.

Silent panorama from the mountains

At the very top of Adršpašsko-teplické skály, rising to an elevation of 786 metres above sea level, the unique Rozhledna Čáp has stood since 2014. This modern timber and steel structure, the individual parts of which had to be transported to the inaccessible summit by helicopter, reaches a height of roughly twelve metres and offers a truly breathtaking panoramic view of the wide surroundings. Since its opening, it has become a prominent landmark of the Broumovsko region and a sought-after destination for tourists throughout the year, whether surrounded by spring greenery or a quiet winter landscape.

A hike full of views and viewing platforms

The sturdy wooden structure conceals a spiral steel staircase comprising a total of 44 steps, which leads visitors to two viewing platforms at heights of approximately 4.5 and 9 metres. Once visitors stand at the top, they will be rewarded with a magnificent panorama encompassing not only the Adršpašsko-teplické skály themselves, but also, in good visibility, the ridges of the Krkonoše, the Orlické hory, the Jestřebí hory and the Javoří hory, the Polish Soví hory, the Broumovské stěny, the Stolové hory, and picturesque Ostaš. It is a place where the landscape unfolds beneath visitors as if on the palm of a hand.

Who the trip to Čáp is intended for

This trip naturally attracts all lovers of untouched nature and distant mountain views. Both hikers and cyclists will find satisfaction here. A green tourist trail leads to the summit from Teplice nad Metují or from the Skály settlement, while cycling makes it possible to ride up to a distance of roughly three hundred metres from the lookout tower. However, it must be taken into account that the route represents a moderately demanding hike along a firm, occasionally stony path with an ascent. Due to safety and the demanding terrain, bringing dogs to the lookout tower is not particularly suitable.

How to set off here and where to continue

An ideal starting point for the trip can be either the Skály settlement or the town of Teplice nad Metují, where parking is conveniently available before setting off along marked tourist trails. Once visitors have had their fill of the views from the lookout tower, they can continue their journey further into the heart of nature, a great tip is visiting nearby Supí skály or continuing to discover other fascinating corners of the entire rock city.

Rozhledna Čáp is not merely an ordinary structure with a view, but a place where the history of the region, the raw beauty of the rock formations, and the deep silence of the mountains are sensitively intertwined. The view from its height will perfectly remind visitors how magnificent and free nature can be, far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Architectural pearl of Valašsko

Rozhledna Vartovna is an architecturally exceptional structure towering on the hill of the same name (651 metres above sea level) in the Hostýnské vrchy hills, not far from the municipality of Liptál in the Zlín Region. This modern tower, officially opened in 2009, stands thirty-seven metres tall and features an unconventional triangular ground plan with radial ends, giving it a futuristic appearance. Two hundred and thirteen steps lead to the viewing platform situated at a height of thirty-five metres. Vartovna offers a circular view of the Vsetín region, the Vizovické vrchy hills, and the Hostýnské vrchy hills, while Malá Fatra can even be seen in good conditions.

Access

The lookout tower can be reached by car, with parking available at Sedlo pod Vartovnou, where a paid car park is located. From there, visitors must ascend to the summit on foot along a gentle path approximately 1.5 kilometres in long. The lookout tower is most frequently accessed via the yellow tourist trail from the municipality of Liptál, which leads through the forest and is approximately three kilometres long. Another option is the red tourist route from the municipality of Seninka.

What is worth discovering

In the vicinity lies the historic town of Vsetín, where visiting Zámek Vsetín with the Muzeum Valašska is recommended. Further along into the region stands the Hrad Lukov castle ruin, which is one of the most extensive in Moravia. For lovers of history and sacred architecture, the Hostýn pilgrimage site with the Bazilika Nanebevzetí Panny Marie is crucial. A wonderful trip with children is offered by the ZOO a Zámek Lešná, located not far from Zlín.

Stone tower with a view of the Middle Vltava region

Rozhledna Na Mackově Hoře stands on the hill of the same name (479 metres) near the municipality of Vysoký Chlumec, not far from Orlík in the Central Bohemian Region. This thirty-six-metre-high stone lookout tower was built in 2004 in a historicising style. One hundred and eighty-one steps lead to its viewing platform. The lookout tower offers a circular view of the extensive Střední Povltaví, the Vodní nádrž Orlík reservoir, and, in good visibility, the prominent landmarks of the Brdská vrchovina highlands and the Českomoravská vrchovina highlands.

Access

An asphalt road leads to the lookout tower from the municipality of Vysoký Chlumec. A free car park with sufficient capacity is available for motorists directly below the lookout tower. From there, the entrance is just a few dozen metres away. For hikers, a red tourist trail from the municipality of Svatý Jan, which forms part of an educational trail, leads to the lookout tower. The nearest bus stop, Hrachov, is located about two and a half kilometres away.

What is worth discovering

The immediate surroundings are dominated by the medieval Hrad a Zámek Vysoký Chlumec, which is privately owned. Less than ten kilometres to the south-west lies Zámek Orlík and the extensive Vodní nádrž Orlík reservoir. It is also worthwhile to visit the technical monument of the Žďákovský most bridge and the nearby Hrad Zvíkov at the confluence of the Vltava and Otava rivers.