Where to go on a trip Semilsko

The cradle of Czech skiing

The Ski areál Kozinec is located in the Krkonoše mountains, in the Hrabačov district, just one kilometre from the town of Jilemnice. This smaller yet popular resort sits at an altitude of 450 to 520 metres above sea level and is an ideal choice for beginners, families with children, and recreational skiers. Jilemnice, as the historical centre of Czech skiing, gives this place a specific atmosphere.

The resort offers one main downhill slope with a total length of 490 metres. The slope is classified as blue in difficulty, is beautifully wide, and is suitable for learning first turns as well as improving one’s technique. Transport for skiers is provided by one Tatrapoma FP ski lift with a capacity of 600 persons per hour, which fully meets the resort’s needs. Thanks to artificial lighting, evening skiing is also available. A Snowpark with daily groomed obstacles is prepared for snowboarders. The slopes are regularly equipped with artificial snow and are groomed. Directly from the upper station of the lift, it is possible to join maintained cross-country skiing trails spanning several tens of kilometres, such as the Buď fit circuits or the Na Hraběnce – Střelnice route.

How to get there

The Ski areál Kozinec is located in the Jilemnice – Hrabačov district, near the road towards Harrachov. On the approach route from Jilemnice, one must turn left after the railway tracks. A free car park is available for visitors directly at the lower lift station. The nearest railway station is Jilemnice, located approximately 1.5 km away, from where it is possible to continue on foot or via local transport.

What you can discover in the surroundings

Jilemnice and its surroundings in the western Krkonoše offer rich opportunities for year-round tourism. Directly in the town of Jilemnice, one can find the Krkonošské muzeum located in the historical chateau, where, among other things, the unique Metelkův mechanický betlém is on display. Another tourist attraction is the collection of folk architecture known as Zvědavá ulička. In the vicinity of the resort, there is a great opportunity to set out on a hike to the Žalý peak, where the rozhledna Žalý stands, offering panoramic views of the Krkonoše. A few kilometres from Jilemnice lies the Zámek Horní Branná, associated with the stay of Jan Amos Komenský. For skiing in the wider area, it is possible to visit larger ski resorts such as the Ski areál Benecko or the Ski areál Herlíkovice.

Even in the Liberecký kraj region, specifically in the Semily district, interesting caves can be found. Less than a kilometre from the village of Bozkov are the Bozkovské dolomitové jeskyně, which represent the most extensive cave area in North-Eastern Bohemia. The caves are formed of calcareous dolomite and have been designated a national natural monument since 1999. To date, just over 1,000 metres have been explored, making them the longest dolomite caves in the country.

The Bozkovské dolomitové jeskyně were formed gradually due to the corrosive activity of underground water. Currently, two separate systems of corridors and halls exist, which were connected by an extensive gallery and excavations at the time the entire system was made accessible to the public. In the lowest parts, the caves remain flooded with water, thus forming the most extensive underground lakes in the Czech Republic.

Visitors who choose to tour the Bozkovské dolomitové jeskyně are welcome to bring children along. The tour is not physically demanding and takes approximately 45 minutes. Visitors may leave their cars in the car park, located a few minutes from the caves. Those arriving by bicycle may use the designated area with bike racks. Refreshments, an information office, and toilets are also available.

The tour begins in the entrance corridor, where, after a few metres, one arrives at a section with a high ceiling called Kaple. A point of interest in these areas is the Zkamenělý orel, which forms part of the sinter decoration on the walls. From here, the route continues to Půlnoční jeskyně. It earned its name due to the blue lighting from ultraviolet lights. The Půlnoční jeskyně is freely connected to the Za prahem cave. In these areas, the natural decoration was damaged by the collapse of rock blocks.

Slowly moving forward along the path around Mechová zahrádka, one arrives at Křižovatka. Here, the tour of the Nové jeskyně circuit begins. Via the Souběžná and Pirátská corridors, one reaches the thematically lit Peklo cave. This is likely to be particularly enjoyed by children. After all, the mysterious underground and the mention of hell will certainly capture their interest and imagination.

Once visitors manage to get out of Peklo, two small Labutí jezírka can be seen to the side. Subsequently, passing the inaccessible areas known as Betlém, one reaches the Loupežnická cave. Then, one simply walks through the Blátivá corridor past the rock niche known as Chlebová pec, and one is back at Křižovatka, at the end of the Nové jeskyně circuit.

From here, a gentle ascent through an artificial tunnel leads to the opening through which the first explorers entered. This is the first level, the so-called Staré Bozkovské jeskyně. Right at the beginning of this circuit, the Prušácká přilba is sure to catch the eye. It is a large sinter block, including a part of a "curtain", which was formed by the gradual shifting of rock.

Subsequently, following the route of the explorers, one passes the Bludiště to reach the Překvapení cave. Visitors are sure to enjoy this area. The magnificent stalactite decoration and the number of stalactites, which form the Bozkovské varhany on the front wall, are complemented by the stalagmites Palec and Ukazovák. To see the large stalactite called Raketa, one must move on to the Listopadová cave. Subsequently, passing Sloní uši, Rokokové panenky, and Perníková chaloupka, one arrives at the starting point of the Staré jeskyně circuit.

And here, the highlight of the tour awaits, the largest underground lake in Bohemia, which is also the lowest point of the Bozkovské dolomitové jeskyně. To these superlatives, the largest space discovered so far can be added the Jezerní dóm, behind which the Mládežnický dóm is located, representing the final section of the entire tour route.

The Bozkovské dolomitové jeskyně will certainly be an interesting experience. It is highly recommended to include them in holiday plans. Just imagine: a beautiful cottage or other accommodation near the Bozkovské dolomitové jeskyně, together with a great group of friends or family, sounds like a wonderfully spent time. Furthermore, the attractions in the Semily region are diverse and numerous, so there will certainly be plenty to choose from. It is entirely up to the visitor where to begin.

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 unique Renaissance bell tower in the Pardubice Region featuring rare bells mounted upside down, now a significant technical monument.

The bell tower with inverted bells, situated in the municipality of Hrochův Týnec in the Pardubice Region, is neither a castle nor a chateau, but a unique 16th-century Renaissance bell tower that serves as a significant technical and architectural monument. The bell tower is a world rarity, as its bells are fixed and mounted upside down; it is not the bells that move, but the entire structure. This system is known as a rotating bell and provides a specific method of ringing. The bell tower is part of the premises of the Kostel svatého Michala Archanděla and represents a rare example of Renaissance timber architecture in the region.

Access

The bell tower is located in the municipality of Hrochův Týnec, at the address Hrochův Týnec 1. By car, it is accessible from the I/17 or II/358 roads. Parking is available at a free car park near the village. The nearest bus stop is Hrochův Týnec, náměstí, which is within walking distance. The Hrochův Týnec railway station (line 016) is approximately 500 metres away. The bell tower is open seasonally with guided tours.

What to see nearby

In the vicinity of Hrochův Týnec, visitors may visit the historic town of Chrudim with the Chrudimské muzeum and the Kostel Nanebevzetí Panny Marie. Visitors may also wish to see Zámek Slatiňany, an extensive chateau featuring a hippological museum and a vast park. Another point of interest is the Rozhledna Bára near the town of Chrudim, which offers views of the Železné hory and the surrounding area.

The symbol of Český ráj is the ruin of Hrad Trosky. It is situated on the hill of Trosky near the village of Troskovice in the Semily district and falls under the Liberecký kraj region. The late medieval castle was considered impregnable in its time and stands on a unique volcanic rock formation. Visitors are invited to discover one of the most sought-after castles in the Czech Republic.

From a distance, the structure of the ruin resembles horns set into the ground. The Gothic castle was built on a pair of steep basalt rocks of volcanic origin, which ensured its complete security. An inner castle with living quarters was established between the two peaks, and defensive (as well as residential) towers were built on the two crags. The lower one, with a more substantial appearance, is named Baba and was a hexagonal, two-storey structure. A rectangular, three-storey building was erected on the higher peak; it once housed a chapel, and the tower is named Panna. It is also the highest point of the castle, reaching 514 metres above sea level. There was a well in the first courtyard, and rainwater reservoirs were carved into the rock on the Panna tower. It is assumed that there are cellars and cave spaces with small lakes under the castle, likely belonging to the Sklepy cave system (part of the Apolena rock city).

The first written references to the castle appear from 1396, although archaeologists believe the castle was founded much earlier. It is assumed that the founder was Čeněk z Vartenberka. Subsequently, the castle passed to various owners; during the Thirty Years' War, it was used as a fortress and was captured by the Swedes in 1639. Armies alternated here, and after the last garrison left, the structure began to deteriorate and became a ruin. From 1925, it was owned by the then Czechoslovak Republic. Around that year, the Klub českých turistů began to repair the ruin, and work continued intermittently for several years. Expert repairs have been carried out by the Státní památkový ústav over the last few years.

Tours of the castle are conducted without a guide or specific tour circuits, meaning visitors have free access around the premises. Those arriving by car may park below the castle in the car park and then continue on foot for approximately 250 metres. When travelling by train, visitors may disembark in the village of Borek pod Troskami and follow the blue tourist trail. Alternatively, they may disembark in the village of Ktová and follow the green trail. Both routes are approximately 3.5 kilometres long. Cyclists may utilise cycle paths leading to the castle gate, where lockable racks are available.

The Liberecký kraj region offers many other interesting attractions. Visitors are encouraged not to miss a visit to the Přírodní památka Borecké skály, the Válečné muzeum Újezd pod Troskami, or the largest natural area in the Czech Republic, Šťastná země in Turnov. We invite visitors to view our wide range of accommodation near Hrad Trosky and explore the Liberecký kraj region. Cottages, guesthouses, hotels, and apartments are available.

Family-oriented ski area between the Krkonoše and Jizerské hory mountains

The ski resort is located in the village of Paseky nad Jizerou, on the border between the western Krkonoše and the Jizerské hory mountains. It is a family-oriented winter resort that offers skiers blue and red slopes, children's parks, and other supplementary services suitable for various skill levels.

The total length of the downhill runs reaches about 9.6 km, part of which is equipped with artificial snowmaking. Transport for visitors is provided by two quad chairlifts and several ski lifts, including those for children, complemented by conveyor belts in the children's park. Among the slopes, one can find a combination of wide blue and more challenging red sections, functional lighting on some trails, and facilities in the form of rental shops, service centres, ski schools, refreshment options, and areas for a snowpark or snowtubing.

How to get there

The Skiareál Paseky is accessible by car via the village of Paseky nad Jizerou, from Rokytnice nad Jizerou, or other nearby centres. Parking is available at the lower chairlift stations and in the vicinity of the resort. Public transport is possible by bus to Paseky nad Jizerou from Rokytnice nad Jizerou or other nearby locations, from where one can reach the resort on foot or via local transport services during the winter season.

What you can discover in the surroundings

Cross-country skiing trails leading, for example, around Bílá Skála and towards the rozhledna Štěpánka begin from the upper chairlift stations. These circuits connect to the Krkonošská lyžařská cesta and the Jizerskohorská magistrála. In the vicinity, one can also visit the towns of Rokytnice nad Jizerou or Harrachov, known for their mountain attractions, cultural monuments, or starting points for hiking trails marked by the KČT, such as the red or blue trails connecting mountain peaks and saddles.

The resort offers balanced conditions for winter sports with adequate facilities and opportunities for both families and more demanding skiers.

Interactive Exhibition in a Functional Hydroelectric Power Plant

The Muzeum obnovitelných zdrojů energie is housed in the building of a historical hydroelectric power plant in the village of Velké Hamry on the Kamenice River (Jablonec nad Nisou district). The power plant was put into operation as early as 1914 and remains fully functional to this day. The museum was established with the aim of educating the public about the importance and principles of generating energy from water, sun, wind, and biomass.

Today, the site is accessible through guided tours (reservations or visits on designated days are often required). The main attraction is the machine room with original Francis turbines, which are still in operation. The interactive part of the exhibition offers models of wind turbines, solar panels, and other educational elements for children and adults.

Access

The power plant is located near the main I/10 road in the Velké Hamry - Svárov district. Parking is available near the facility. The Velké Hamry railway stop on the Tanvald - Železný Brod line is just a few minutes' walk away.

What Is Worth Discovering

Nearby is the popular Černostudniční hřeben ridge with the Černá studnice observation tower. Upstream along the Kamenice River lie the town of Tanvald and entry points to the Jizerské hory mountains. An interesting technical monument is also the nearby railway viaduct in Smržovka.

The visit to this museum offers a unique glimpse into the interior of "green energy". It combines the history of technology with contemporary trends in energy within an authentic environment.

Former hydrotherapy spa and gateway to the heart of the České ráj

Lázně Sedmihorky is a historically significant locality and a contemporary recreational centre, situated in the immediate vicinity of the Hruboskalsko rock town, not far from Turnov. In the 19th century, the premises were established by the physician Antonín Šlechta as the first hydrotherapy institute in Bohemia and hosted famous figures such as Jan Neruda. Although it no longer serves as a classic medical facility today, it has retained its tranquil atmosphere and serves as a sought-after base for hiking and family recreation in the heart of nature.

What do Lázně Sedmihorky offer?

Visitors will find here, above all, an ideal starting point for hiking and cycling trips into the rocks of the Český ráj. Located directly within the grounds is a popular autokemp with accommodation in cabins, and for families with children, a popular Dětská lesní naučná stezka (Children's Forest Educational Trail) is prepared with fun tasks. History lovers can admire the preserved architecture of the original spa houses, a bust of the spa's founder, or freely accessible forest springs in the near vicinity, such as the pramen Antonín.

For whom are Lázně Sedmihorky intended?

The site is currently intended primarily for active tourists, rock climbers, and families with children who are looking for accommodation in nature with good facilities. It is also a destination for those who wish to walk in the footsteps of history and soak up the atmosphere of the "air spa" that once shaped Czech national culture.

How to get here and what can you discover in the surroundings?

The location is easily accessible by train; the Karlovice-Sedmihorky stop lies just a short distance from the area. Motorists may use the paid central car park at the entrance to the spa zone (approach from the I/35 road towards Turnov – Jičín). From this point, tourist signs lead directly to the rock town, to the Hrubá Skála chateau, to Valdštejn castle, or to the Kapelník and U Lvíčka viewpoints.

Visit Lázně Sedmihorky and enjoy active relaxation in places where the healing power of water combines with the majesty of sandstone rocks.

Modern water complex designed for summer recreation and sports in the Český ráj region

The complex is located in the town of Turnov in the Semily district, within the Liberecký kraj. This modern swimming pool is part of the broader Maškova zahrada sports and relaxation complex, which was opened in 2016. The character of the site is defined by contemporary architecture and the use of stainless steel technology for all pools. For every visitor, this place serves as an important spot for refreshment during the summer season at the gateway to Český ráj. The location combines opportunities for fitness swimming with an extensive zone for family entertainment and relaxation on grassy areas.

What can you find here?

The basis of the complex is a multi-purpose stainless steel pool, which is divided into a swimming section with four lanes and a relaxation section with water features. Visitors may use a toboggan and several slides, including a steep kamikaze-style slide. The pool includes massage jets, water cannons, and bubble beds for regeneration. For the youngest visitors, a children's paddling pool with a water hedgehog and a small slide is available. The sports offer is complemented by a beach volleyball court, table tennis tables, and a skatepark or in-line track located in the immediate vicinity. The facilities include modern changing rooms, showers, a refreshment kiosk, and an outdoor terrace.

For whom is the place suitable?

Thanks to the diversity of water attractions and shallow zones, the complex is ideal for families with children. The place is also sought after by fitness swimmers who use the lanes in the multi-purpose pool for regular training. Given the barrier-free access and clear layout, the swimming pool is suitable for seniors and persons with reduced mobility. For every visitor who spends their holiday with active movement, the complex offers a connection to other sports facilities in the area. The location is a popular destination for tourists and cyclists travelling through the Český ráj region.

What can you visit in the surroundings?

In the immediate vicinity, one can find the historical centre of the town of Turnov with the Muzeum Českého ráje. Approximately 3 kilometres away lies the state-owned zámek Hrubý Rohozec and the national cultural monument Dlaskův statek in Dolánky. Within a 5-kilometre range, you may visit hrad Valdštejn, which is the oldest castle in this area. A significant destination is also the Hruboskalsko rock town with the zámek Hrubá Skála. For lovers of views, the rozhledna Hlavatice is accessible, situated on the edge of the rock massif.

The highest waterfall in the Czech Republic is Pančavský vodopád in the Krkonoše mountains. Its height is an impressive 148 metres. It is located on the Pančava stream, which is a right-bank tributary of the Labe river. Together with Labský vodopád, it forms a system of viewpoints in Labský důl. One of the most famous is Ambrožova vyhlídka, from which Labský důl, Kotel, and Kozí hřbety are spread out before visitors. This is not the only reason why Pančavský vodopád is a sought-after tourist location.

The waterfall reaches its greatest flow during the spring thaw in April and May. In these months, the large volume of water forms several separate branches. The waterfall itself has a cascading character, and its width varies depending on the season, ranging from 4 to 8 metres.

Access to Pančavský vodopád itself is restricted, as it is located in the first zone of the Krkonošský národní park. A marked tourist trail leads from Špindlerův Mlýn around the waterfalls. Those who take this path will certainly not regret it. In addition to wonderful views, many other attractions await. Just above the waterfall is a memorial plaque to Otokar Štětka, who was the head of the Horská záchranná služba Krkonoše for more than half a century.

Further along, visitors will also encounter the Mohyla Hanče a Vrbaty. This is a monument to the famous skier Bohumil Hanč, who died here during a race, and his friend Václav Vrbata, who tried to help him. The trail continues into the western Krkonoše and branches off in several directions. It is possible to reach the source of the Labe river, the Sněžné jámy, from which it is possible to see as far as Poland or Harrachov to see the famous Mumlavský vodopád.

However, let us return to Pančavský vodopád, which derived its name from the German word "plantschen," meaning to splash or spray. It has been a frequent destination for tourists since the past. In 1859, a local hotelier, Josef Schier, had a small reservoir with a sluice gate built above the upper part of the waterfall. He used this to increase the flow of the waterfall, particularly as an attraction for paying tourists. At that time, an upper viewing terrace and several refreshment stalls were also in operation. In the first half of the 20th century, however, the terrace and refreshments were removed.

Nevertheless, this does not detract from the picturesqueness of this place. Therefore, it should definitely not be missed when choosing Krkonoše attractions. The highest mountains offer a great deal indeed. There is something here for everyone. Hikers certainly cannot leave without conquering Sněžka, skiers have a choice of several top-tier ski resorts, and children will long remember the Stezka korunami stromů Krkonoše.

And it is not possible to fit this all into one day? You are right, a day in the Krkonoše is truly not enough. Fortunately, there are many mountain huts, hotels, and guesthouses here that offer accommodation with meals, or even wellness stays. It is entirely up to you what you prefer. In any case, accommodation near Pančavský vodopád or anywhere in the Krkonoše guarantees endless possibilities for trips, relaxation, and beautiful nature. Can you hear it too? The mountains are calling you.