Broumovsko Protected Landscape Area

Broumovsko Protected Landscape Area (CHKO Broumovsko) is a protected region in the northeastern corner of the Czech Republic, encompassing the Broumov Highlands (Broumovská vrchovina) and part of the Stěnky Mountains. The area is renowned for its dramatic sandstone formations, deep river gorges, and a remarkable collection of baroque churches designed by the Dientzenhofer family of architects. Established as a protected landscape area in 1972, it covers approximately 400 km² along the Czech-Polish border.

The landscape is defined by towering sandstone pillars and walls, particularly in the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks, one of the most spectacular rock town complexes in Europe. The Broumov Group of Churches (Broumovská skupina kostelů) — ten baroque churches scattered across the countryside — represents one of the most significant architectural ensembles in Central Europe. The area is relatively remote and sees fewer tourists than more famous Czech destinations, offering a sense of discovery. The climate is continental with cold winters and mild summers.

By Plane

The nearest international airport is Prague (PRG), approximately 180 km away. Pardubice Airport (PED) is about 120 km south.

By Train

Broumov is the main rail gateway, with trains from Hradec Králové taking approximately 2 hours. Teplice nad Metují station is closer to the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks and is served by regional trains.

By Car / Road

Driving from Prague takes approximately 2.5–3 hours via the D11 motorway to Hradec Králové, then northeast on regional roads. From Hradec Králové the drive is about 90 minutes to Broumov.

A car is essential for exploring the spread-out attractions of Broumovsko. Regional buses connect Broumov, Teplice nad Metují, and Adršpach, but services are infrequent. Cycling is possible on quiet rural roads.

• Adršpach-Teplice Rock Town — a labyrinth of sandstone towers and gorges, one of the largest rock towns in Europe. Walking circuits 1–3 hours. Entry approximately 120 CZK.

• Broumov Monastery (Klášter Broumov) — a significant baroque Benedictine complex with ceiling frescoes and a gallery. Open daily, admission approximately 100 CZK.

• Broumov Group of Churches — ten baroque churches by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer and his father Christoph, scattered across the countryside.

• Heřmánkovice Church — one of the finest Dientzenhofer churches, a baroque gem in a village setting.

• Boží Dar (God's Gift) nature trail — hiking through sandstone formations near Broumov.

• Hiking through rock formations — multiple marked trails in the Adršpach-Teplice complex.

• Baroque church trail — a self-guided driving or cycling tour of the Dientzenhofer churches.

• Cycling — quiet rural roads and forest trails.

• Nature photography — the sandstone formations and baroque architecture are highly photogenic.

• Visiting the Broumov Monastery — tours of the monastery, gallery, and library.

Czech country cooking at moderate prices. Main courses range from 120–250 CZK.

• Restaurace in Broumov — traditional Czech dishes.
• Restaurant at Broumov Monastery — dining in a historic setting.
• Mountain huts and village pubs — basic but hearty meals.

Czech beer, including regional brews. Tap water is safe. Becherovka and other Czech herbal liqueurs are available.

• Budget: Guesthouses in Broumov and surrounding villages offer rooms from 400–700 CZK per night.
• Mid-range: Hotel & Restaurant U města Prahy in Broumov provides rooms from 1,000–1,800 CZK per night.
• Upscale / heritage: Boutique hotels in Broumov offer higher-end accommodation from 2,500 CZK per night.

Small local shops sell honey, herbal products, and regional crafts. Broumov has basic retail amenities. The monastery shop offers religious items and local products.

• Adršpach (10 km) — gateway to the rock town.
• Teplice nad Metují (8 km) — small town and rock town access.
• Náchod (25 km) — border town with Renaissance château.
• Kudowa-Zdrój, Poland (20 km) — spa town with the Skull Chapel.
• Špindlerův Mlýn (60 km) — Krkonoše mountain resort.