The best cycling routes around Karlovarský kraj

The old town of Karlovy Vary, in German Karlsbad, is one of the most beautiful historical city areas in the Czech Republic. It lies picturesquely in the valley along the river Teplá and is characterized by magnificent historical buildings, elegant colonnades, thermal springs, and cozy promenades. The special combination of spa architecture and the wooded surroundings gives the city its unmistakable character. In the historical center, there are numerous important sights. These include the Sprudel Colonnade with the famous Vřídlo, the Mill Colonnade, the Market Colonnade, and the Park Colonnade. The baroque Church of St. Mary Magdalene, the historical Municipal Theatre, and the Stará Louka promenade are also in close proximity and can be easily reached on foot. Characteristic of the old town are the colorful facades of the historical houses, which stand close together along the Teplá. Many buildings date from the 18th and 19th centuries and are reminiscent of the time when Karlsbad became an internationally renowned meeting place for European nobility and wealthy society. Numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops along the promenades invite you to linger and stroll. A special experience is a walk along the river Teplá. This allows you to connect the various colonnades and healing springs. The old town of Karlovy Vary thus combines history, architecture, spa tradition, and nature in a unique way, making the city a special travel destination in the Czech Republic.

The Lourdes Grotto directly on the bike path with seating 😄

Just outside Waldsassen, near the Mitterhof monastery estate, lies the Lourdes Grotto – an idyllic place of peace and prayer. It was built after the model of the famous Grotto of Massabielle in Lourdes, France, and solemnly consecrated on October 29, 1905. The initiator of the construction was the Waldsassen merchant's wife Anna Rockstroh, who felt a particular devotion to the veneration of Mary. The grotto is located directly on the well-developed hiking trail No. 8 and is easily accessible from Waldsassen on foot or by bicycle. Surrounded by forest and nature, it invites visitors to pause and enjoy the special atmosphere. Services and masses are held here several times a year, and it is also a popular place for personal reflection and quiet prayer. Today, the Lourdes Grotto is one of the most beautiful religious excursion destinations in the Stiftland region and impressively combines history, nature, and spirituality.

The history of Seeberg (Czech: Ostroh) dates back to the Bronze Age. Seeberg Castle was built around the year 1200 as the seat of one of the ministers from Eger on the site of a much older hillfort. The castle was first mentioned in writing in 1322 as part of the property that Ludwig IV of Bavaria pawned to King John of Luxembourg. Over the centuries, it had numerous owners and experienced devastating events, including the Swedish conquest in 1648 during the Thirty Years' War. Since 1990, the castle has been accessible to the public after reconstruction by the City Museum in Františkovy Lázně in the 1970s. Guided tours through exhibitions on various topics are offered. The divided castle sits enthroned on a rocky outcrop above the Slatinný stream. The forecourt is built with half-timbered houses from the 18th century. In the castle core, a Romanesque wall with a gate is partially preserved.

The old town of Carlsbad is a real highlight for any Komoot tour – history meets pure postcard aesthetics here. 🎨 Colorful Art Nouveau facades nestle along the Teplá, with magnificent colonnades, small cafés, and bubbling thermal springs in between. While strolling through the winding alleys, you constantly discover new perspectives and photo spots – the views from the bridges or slightly elevated paths are particularly spectacular. 💡 **Tip:** Take time to linger instead of just passing through. Early in the morning or in the evening, the atmosphere is at its best – less hustle and bustle, soft light, and an almost magical tranquility. Ideal for connoisseurs, photo fans, and anyone who likes to soak up a bit of spa town flair on the go.

From here you have a really beautiful view

The Roland Fountain was built in 1528 and initially only featured a painted wooden figure, which was replaced by the stone sculpture in 1591.

The reservoir here is quite large.