Sněžka
The highest mountain in the Czech Republic is Sněžka, which rises to an altitude of 1,603 metres above sea level. It is located in the Krkonoše mountains, and the state border with Poland runs across its summit. Visitors may comfortably reach the top via a modern cable car, which departs from Pec pod Sněžkou or from the intermediate station at Růžová hora.
Apart from the cable car station, there are other structures on the summit of Sněžka. Examples include the Polská bouda mountain hut, which houses a meteorological station, or the Kaple sv. Vavřince (Chapel of St. Lawrence), which is the oldest building in this area. It was consecrated as early as 1681. In those days, religious services were held on Sněžka up to five times a year and were attended by a multitude of pilgrims from the surrounding area. Over the following years, the chapel burned down several times. It was subsequently re-consecrated, the altar and murals were restored, and it now once again serves as a place for masses dedicated to mountain guides and rescuers, whose patron is indeed Saint Lawrence.
Another, and arguably the most well-known, building for the public is the Česká poštovna (Czech Post Office). This fully functional post office ensures the dispatch of postcards and provides other postal services. It also includes a refreshment stall and an observation deck, which offers a magnificent panoramic view of the vast surroundings. At the same time, it is the highest situated building in the country.
In addition to the aforementioned cable car, it is possible to reach Sněžka via several different hiking trails. Scaling the highest mountain is a very popular challenge, and it is therefore one of the most visited attractions in the Krkonoše mountains. The most frequently used route leads from Pec pod Sněžkou. Here, one still has the choice of whether to attempt the ascent on foot or to make use of the aforementioned cable car. The walking route partially follows the cable car line, leads over Růžová hora, and measures approximately 6.5 kilometres. The reward for the effort will be magnificent views and fresh mountain air.
The least demanding ascent can be started in Malá Úpa. The roughly 4-kilometre-long Cesta česko-polského přátelství (Czech-Polish Friendship Trail) will lead visitors along the red tourist marker over Obří hřeben to the summit. Conversely, the most challenging but visually most rewarding route starts again in Pec pod Sněžkou and leads through Obří důl and Obří sedlo. Its length is 7 kilometres, and during the summer season, visitors can also visit the Kovárna mine along the way, which commemorates the history of mining in the Krkonoše mountains.
A starting point can also be Špindlerův Mlýn. This blue trail leads through the Údolí Bílého Labe (White Elbe Valley). All routes can be combined with one another to make the most of the ascent to Sněžka. However, the Krkonoše are not just about Sněžka. These mountains are attractive to visitors throughout the entire year.
They truly offer something for everyone. Therefore, a holiday in the Krkonoše mountains appears to be a perfect plan that cannot disappoint. Visitors are invited to book comfortable accommodation in the vicinity of Sněžka or another Krkonoše attraction that appeals to them, and to enjoy their well-deserved days of rest with family or friends. The Krkonoše rightfully belong among the most visited places in the country, and one can be sure that they will fall in love with them as well. All that remains is to set off.
