Attractions and Places To See around Novohradské hory - Top 20

The region is rich in history, particularly related to its past as a border zone. You can visit the Hirschenwies border crossing, a poignant reminder of the former "Iron Curtain." Another significant historical site is the Site of Silberberg (Stříbrné Hutě), a former mining and glass-blowing settlement that now stands as a deserted landscape with a melancholic history. The town of Nové Hrady also features a castle, chateau, and a Servite monastery.

Absolutely. The Novohradské hory are known for their pristine nature. You can find the Mountain lake in Novohradské hory Nature Park, a tranquil spot for a break. Kraví hora (Cow Mountain) offers expansive vistas of the entire range, while Žofínský prales (Žofín Primeval Forest) is Central Europe's oldest natural reserve. Mandelstein, on the Austrian side, provides another forested viewpoint with unique rock formations.

The region is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous marked trails for hiking, cycling, and even gravel biking. For specific routes, check out the guides for Running Trails around Novohradské hory, Cycling around Novohradské hory, and Gravel biking around Novohradské hory.

Yes, several spots are suitable for families. The Mountain lake in Novohradské hory Nature Park and The Stephanie Bridge are noted as family-friendly. Terčino údolí (Therese Valley) is a romantic natural park with a waterfall and nature trail, perfect for a family outing. The extensive forests and meadows also offer plenty of space for children to explore.

The Novohradské hory region is beautiful throughout the year, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage in the fall. Summer is ideal for enjoying the lakes and longer days. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene, snow-covered wonderland, suitable for cross-country skiing or quiet walks.

The region is home to unique natural features. The Žofínský prales (Žofín Primeval Forest) is a must-see, being the oldest natural reserve in Central Europe. You can also explore extensive peat bogs, such as the Stodůlecké peat bog, which is the largest in the area, or the Červené blato Peat Bog. These areas offer a glimpse into untouched ecosystems.

Yes, the region's border location means you'll find interesting crossings. The Stephanie Bridge crosses the Rauscherbach, marking the border between Austria and the Czech Republic, and offers a pleasant spot to pause. Another point of interest is the Kabelský Potok Bridge, which crosses a stream that flows into the Maltsch, a border river.

On the Czech side of the Novohradské hory, the highest peaks include Kamenec (1072 m), Myslivna (1040 m), and Vysoká (1034 m). These peaks offer challenging hikes and are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Yes, the region has spiritual significance. The Church of Our Lady of the Cross in Dobrá Voda is a notable pilgrimage site, built on the location of a healing spring. Dobrá Voda, along with Hojná Voda, are also picturesque mountain villages known for their beautiful views.

The Novohradské hory Nature Park, established in 2000, protects 162 km² of this unique border mountain range on the Czech side. It safeguards the remarkably preserved nature, extensive forests, mountain meadows, and peat bogs, ensuring the region's significant natural and aesthetic value is maintained for future generations.

The region holds poignant reminders of its past. Pohoří na Šumavě is a former border village, now largely abandoned, featuring the ruins of the Church of St. John of Nepomuk. This site offers a powerful glimpse into the dramatic history and depopulation of the area after World War II. You can also find other castle ruins like Pořešín and Sokolčí.

Visitors appreciate the remarkably preserved nature, tranquil landscapes, and the sense of stepping back in time. Many enjoy the quiet relaxation amidst pristine nature, the extensive forests, and the diverse array of natural and historical sites. The region's unique history as a former border zone also adds a compelling layer to the exploration.