✓ Accommodations✓ Flights✓ Rental Cars
For decades, the Brdy mountains remained a hidden gem, closed off to the public due to their status as a military zone. This secrecy preserved the untouched nature and beauty of the area, making it a unique destination in Europe.
Now open to visitors, the Brdy Highlands offer a serene escape from city life, with rolling hills and dense forests waiting to be explored. You’ll discover the rich history behind this formerly restricted zone, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that pervades this mountainous area.
This guide will walk you through the top activities and attractions, from scenic hiking trails to historical sites, ensuring you’re prepared to experience the best of Brdy.
Discovering Brdy Highlands: A Hidden Gem in Czechia
Tucked away in the heart of Czechia lies the Brdy Highlands, a treasure waiting to be discovered. This region has a fascinating history and offers breathtaking natural landscapes.
The History of Brdy: From Military Zone to Natural Paradise
The Brdy Highlands have a unique history, having been a restricted military zone for nearly 65 years. Established as a training area in 1926, it became a military training zone in 1950. This period of isolation preserved the local nature, creating an unintentional nature preserve. In 2016, the area was declared a protected landscape, marking a significant conservation milestone in Central Europe.
You’ll find that the history of Brdy is not just about its past as a military zone; it’s also about the information it provides on how such areas can be preserved. The year 2016 was pivotal as it opened the region to visitors, offering a glimpse into a previously unseen part of Czechia.
Geography and Location: Where to Find This Czech Treasure
Located southwest of Prague, the Brdy Highlands mountains stretch from Prague’s Zbraslav district towards Příbram and Rokycany. The highest peaks exceed 800 meters, offering spectacular views. Understanding the location and geography of Brdy enhances your appreciation of this region‘s natural beauty.
The Brdy Highlands are a perfect location for those seeking to explore beyond typical tourist destinations. With its diverse ecosystems and scenic landscapes, this region is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers.
Hiking Adventures in Brdy Highlands
The Brdy Highlands region is a paradise for hikers, boasting an extensive network of trails that wind through pristine nature. With trails catering to all experience levels, you’re invited to explore the beauty of this Czech treasure.
Best Hiking Trails for Day Trips
You’ll find numerous well-marked hiking trails throughout Brdy Highlands, perfect for day adventures in the pristine landscape. Many of these trails are accessible via the Mníšek pod Brdy train station, making it easy to plan your trip without a car.
The trails offer a range of experiences, from leisurely walks to more challenging hikes, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. The scenic views and tranquil atmosphere make these day trips truly unforgettable.
The Legendary Night Hike Experience
For a unique perspective, consider joining a night hike through Brdy Highlands. Organized group events often depart from Prague’s main train station around midnight, offering a thrilling adventure under the stars. The snow-covered paths during winter months provide enough natural light, making headlamps unnecessary.
Joining a group night hike not only offers safety in numbers but also the chance to meet locals who know the hidden gems of the highlands. Experience the tranquility of Brdy’s forests after dark, with nocturnal wildlife active and stars shining above the tree canopy.
Seasonal Hiking Tips: Winter Snow to Summer Forests
Brdy Highlands offers two distinct hiking experiences depending on the season. Summer brings lush green forests and accessible paths, while winter transforms the landscape into a magical snowy wonderland. Seasonal considerations will enhance your hiking adventure, whether you prefer the longer days of summer or the serene silence of winter.
Be prepared for the conditions, and you’ll find that Brdy Highlands is a year-round destination for hiking enthusiasts. The contrast between the seasons ensures that every visit is unique, with new landscapes to discover.
Cycling Through Brdy’s Scenic Landscapes
Brdy Highlands offers an exhilarating experience for cyclists, with hundreds of kilometers of cycling trails that weave through its picturesque landscapes.
The Brdy Protected Landscape Area is a haven for cyclists, with its extensive network of paved roads and cycling trails that make it easy to explore the region’s natural beauty. You can choose from various cycling routes suitable for different skill levels, from leisurely rides to challenging mountain biking trails.
Top Cycling Routes for All Skill Levels
The region boasts numerous cycling routes that cater to all skill levels, ensuring that every cyclist can enjoy the scenic landscapes. A popular 50-kilometer circular route starts and ends in Strašice, taking you through former villages, beautiful ponds, and past the highest peak in Brdy.
- Leisurely Rides: Enjoy the scenic views on routes that are perfect for family cycling trips.
- Challenging Trails: Test your endurance on mountain biking trails that lead to the area’s highest points.
Bike-Friendly Facilities and Rental Options
Bike rentals and cycling-friendly facilities are available throughout the region, making it easy for you to plan a two-wheeled adventure. You’ll find detailed route information at visitor centers, helping you plan the perfect cycling itinerary based on your interests and fitness level.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing ride or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Brdy Highlands has everything you need for an unforgettable cycling experience.
Natural Wonders and Viewpoints in Brdy Highlands, Czechia: Best Things to Do – Top Picks
As you explore the Brdy Highlands, you’ll discover a treasure trove of natural wonders and breathtaking viewpoints. The region is dotted with unique landscapes, from serene water bodies to panoramic hills, offering a diverse range of experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Padrťské Ponds: A Tranquil Escape
The Padrťské Ponds are a haven of peace, surrounded by pristine forests that offer a serene natural experience. These tranquil water bodies are perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and connect with nature.
Tok Mountain: Reaching Brdy’s Highest Peak
Tok Mountain stands as the highest peak in the Brdy Highlands, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. On clear days, the views stretch for miles, making it a rewarding experience for hikers and adventure enthusiasts.
Fabiánovo Lože: The Legend of Ghost Fabián
Fabiánovo Lože, or Fabián’s Bed, is a distinctive rock formation steeped in local folklore. According to legend, this is the home of Fabián, the ghost guardian of the Brdy forests, adding a touch of mystery to your visit.
Best Viewpoints for Panoramic Landscapes
The Brdy Highlands offer numerous viewpoints that provide stunning panoramic landscapes. From the hill of Velká Baba to the Praha peak with its meteorological radar, each viewpoint offers a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty.
The varied nature of Brdy’s ecosystem becomes apparent as you explore these natural wonders, from wetlands around the ponds to rocky outcrops and dense forests covering the hillsides. Each viewpoint offers a different perspective on the landscape, helping you understand why this region remained protected for so long and why it’s now considered one of Czechia’s most precious natural treasures.
Historical Sites and Cultural Attractions
As you explore Brdy Highlands, you’ll uncover a rich tapestry of historical sites and cultural attractions that reveal the region’s fascinating past. The area is dotted with remnants of its history, from abandoned villages to grand castles, each telling a unique story.
Tři Trubky Hunter’s Lodge
The historic Tři Trubky Hunter’s Lodge is a must-visit attraction, offering a glimpse into the region’s aristocratic hunting traditions and forest management history. This well-preserved building is a testament to the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Abandoned Villages with Fascinating Stories
The abandoned villages scattered throughout Brdy tell fascinating stories of communities that once thrived but were evacuated when the area became a military zone. Their remnants now stand as haunting reminders of the past, attracting tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
Nearby Castles and Monasteries Worth Visiting
Brdy Highlands is surrounded by numerous impressive castles and monasteries, including Ronov Castle in Kokořinsko, a secluded 14th-century ruin accessible via scenic hiking trails from the nearest train station. You can also visit Rabí Castle, the largest castle ruin in Bohemia, which offers impressive views and well-preserved historic structures.
Other notable attractions include the town of Mníšek pod Brdy, easily reached by train, which serves as a gateway to the highlands and features Skalka, a beautiful complex with baroque buildings. For those interested in gothic architecture, Trosky Castle in nearby Český ráj presents iconic ruins.
The convenient train network allows you to reach many of these historical attractions, with stations strategically located near major sites to accommodate tourists exploring without a car. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to explore new places, Brdy Highlands and its surroundings have something to offer.
Planning Your Perfect Visit to Brdy Highlands
To make the most of your visit to Brdy Highlands, it’s essential to plan ahead. The best time to visit is between late spring and early fall, though each season offers a uniqueexperienceof the region’sforestsandlandscape.
You can plan aday tripfrom Prague, utilizing regulartrainconnections totownslike Mníšek pod Brdy as starting points for youradventure. Consider the varioustrain stationsthat provide access to different parts of Brdy, allowing you to plan one-wayroutesthat end at a differentstationfrom where you started.
When venturing into the more remote parts of Brdy, bring adequate water and supplies, as facilities can be limited.Morningvisits offer the best opportunity for wildlife spotting and photography. The region’s uniquelocationand history make it an ideal destination for those looking to experience a different side of the Czech countryside.
By planning yourtripcarefully, you can have a tranquilexperiencein this beautifulregion, enjoying theviewsacross the rollinglandscapejust a shorttrainride fromhome.
—
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
