Krkonose

The Krkonose (Giant Mountains, German: Riesengebirge) is the highest mountain range in the Czech Republic, straddling the Czech-Polish border in the northeast of the country. The range is protected as the Krkonose National Park (Národní park Krkonoše), a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and is one of the most important natural areas in Central Europe. The highest peak, Sněžka (1,603 m), is the roof of the Czech Republic.

The Krkonose is renowned for its unique alpine and sub-alpine ecosystems, which harbour rare plant species found nowhere else in the world, including the Krkonose gentian and Krkonose sandwort. The landscape features dramatic granite peaks, deep valleys, glacial cirques, and tundra-like plateaux — the only ones in Central Europe. In winter the range transforms into the Czech Republic's premier skiing destination, while summer attracts hikers to its well-marked trail network. The climate is mountainous and harsh: cold, snowy winters lasting from November through April, and cool summers with frequent fog and rain. The Krkonose spans across two Czech regions — Královéhradecký and Liberecký — with the Pardubice region bordering to the south.

By Plane

The nearest international airport is Prague (PRG), approximately 150 km south. Pardubice Airport (PED) is about 120 km southeast.

By Train

Hradec Králové (1 hour 45 minutes from Prague) is the nearest major rail hub, with bus connections to Krkonose resort towns. Liberec also provides access from the north.

By Car / Road

Driving from Prague takes 2–2.5 hours via the D11 motorway to Hradec Králové, then north. The roads are well-maintained. Parking within the national park is restricted to designated areas.

The park is best explored on foot via its extensive hiking trail network. Mountain cable cars and chairlifts provide access to high-altitude terrain. Regional buses connect gateway towns. A car is useful for reaching more remote areas.

• Sněžka (1,603 m) — the highest peak in the Czech Republic, accessible by cable car from Pec pod Sněžkou or on foot.

• Mumlava Waterfall — a picturesque 12-metre cascade near Harrachov.

• Pramen Labe (Source of the Elbe) — the symbolic source of the Elbe River.

• Bílé Labe gorge — a scenic walk along waterfalls near Špindlerův Mlýn.

• Sněžné Jámy (Snow Holes) — dramatic glacial cirques on the Czech-Polish border.

• Skiing and snowboarding — Špindlerův Mlýn, Pec pod Sněžkou, and Harrachov are major resorts.

• Summer hiking — over 900 km of marked trails traverse the range.

• Cross-country skiing — extensive groomed trails in winter.

• Mountain biking — designated cycling routes around the park perimeter.

• Wildlife watching — the park is home to lynx, red deer, and black grouse.

Mountain cuisine centres on hearty Czech dishes: goulash, dumplings, and game. Mountain huts (chaty) serve basic but satisfying meals. Main courses range from 120–350 CZK.

Mountain beers from regional breweries. Hot drinks (mulled wine, tea) are essential in winter. Tap water is excellent mountain water.

• Budget: Mountain huts and dormitories from 300–500 CZK per night.
• Mid-range: Hotels in resort towns from 1,500–2,500 CZK per night.
• Upscale / heritage: Grand Hotel Špindlerův Mlýn and other spa hotels from 3,000–6,000 CZK per night.

Mountain huts and gateway town shops sell local products: Krkonoše cheese, honey, herbal liqueurs, and wooden crafts. Prices are higher in the resorts.

• Špindlerův Mlýn — the most popular resort in the Krkonose.
• Harrachov — famous for glassworks and ski jumping.
• Pec pod Sněžkou — cable car to Sněžka.
• Hradec Králové (65 km) — regional capital.
• Jablonec nad Nisou (40 km) — gateway to the Jizera Mountains.