Adršpach-Teplice Rocks: a guide to Czechia's sandstone labyrinth

At Adršpach the forest floor gives way to stone. Sandstone pillars rise out of the pines, high enough to dwarf the walkers below, split by gaps so narrow that you turn sideways to pass. The trail runs on through these gaps, up steps cut into the rock, past ponds and viewpoints, and out into daylight again with a slightly dazed expression.

It is one of the most memorable landscapes in Czechia, and it needs some planning.

What the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks are

The rocks are a large sandstone formation in north-eastern Bohemia, close to the border with Poland. Wind, water and frost have carved the stone into towers, walls and ravines over a very long time. Two connected areas make up the whole: the Adršpach Rocks in the north-west and the Teplice Rocks (Teplické skály) a few kilometres away. They lie within a protected nature reserve, in a wider protected landscape area in the Broumov region.

This is one of the largest rock towns in Central Europe. Many of the formations have names given by walkers over the centuries, and guides will point out the shapes that have inspired them.

Getting there

The distance from Prague is roughly 150 km, and there is no fast direct link. Most people combine a train with a regional train or bus, and the journey usually takes three hours or more each way. By car it is shorter, but traffic on summer weekends can slow you down. Check idos.cz for the national timetable and cd.cz for Czech Railways, and plan the return before you set out, because the last connections can leave early in the evening.

Because of the distance, we suggest staying at least one night nearby. Adršpach and Teplice nad Metují both have guesthouses and hotels, and the nearby town of Broumov is another option. Book ahead for summer weekends.

Walking in the rocks

Entry to the rock areas is controlled and a fee applies; check the official sites for current prices, opening times and any seasonal limits. A marked circuit leads through the Adršpach Rocks, with steps, narrow passages and viewpoints. In the Teplice Rocks, another circuit climbs to viewpoints and an old castle site. Expect uneven stone, steps and crowds in summer.

An easy walk takes a few hours, and a longer day links both areas. In season a boat trip on a small flooded gorge is part of the usual route. Check whether it is running, and be prepared for a queue.

Wear shoes with good grip: stone paths are slippery when wet. Take water, a light jacket and a snack. The temperature in the gorges is lower than outside, even in summer. Our guide to walking in Prague has advice on shoes that applies here too.

When to go

Weekdays and early mornings are quieter than weekends at midday. Spring and autumn offer cooler weather and fewer crowds, and autumn gives you colour. Summer is busy at weekends. In winter some routes and services close, and ice on the rock makes paths hazardous. Always check the official sites for the situation on the day, and avoid the rocks in storms, because falling branches and slippery steps are real risks.

Rules for the reserve

Stay on marked paths, do not climb on formations unless you are an authorised climber and keep to the reserve's rules. Take your rubbish home. Drones, fires and camping are generally not allowed in protected areas, so check the reserve's rules. If you want to climb, local climbing rules are strict and access can be restricted to protect wildlife; ask the reserve administration before you plan anything.

Other things to see nearby

Broumov and the surrounding Broumovsko region are known for wooden churches and the Broumov Monastery. The district also has Baroque churches designed by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer, an architect born in Prague. If you like architecture, our guide to Prague's architecture styles explains the Baroque style you will see.

The hills along the border with Poland are good for gentler walks, and Náchod, with its castle, lies on the way back towards Prague. Take a map and check the local bus connections.

Our guide to Český ráj is a closer, gentler option if you want sandstone without the long drive, Bohemian Switzerland offers another sandstone landscape in the north, and the Krkonoše are the nearest big mountains.

Food and practicalities

You will find refreshment huts near the entrances and village pubs nearby. Our Czech food guide explains what to order. Bring cash as well as a card, because some rural places prefer it. Phone signal can be patchy in the gorges. If you are travelling with children or older people, check the steps and surface on the route you choose.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get to the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks from Prague?

Roughly three hours or more by train or bus with changes, and less by car. Check idos.cz for current connections.

Can I do it as a day trip?

It is possible by car but long. A night nearby makes the trip much more comfortable.

Do I need to pay to enter?

Yes, there are entry fees for the rock areas. Check the official sites for current prices.

Is it suitable for children?

Many families go, but there are steps and narrow passages. Choose a route that suits your children's age.

Is it open in winter?

Parts may be limited or closed, and paths can be icy. Check conditions before you set out.