This travel guide to Cesky Raj can help you take a day trip or overnight trip from Prague to one of the most beautiful natural regions of the Czech Republic.
The Region of Cesky Raj
Cesky Raj (Czech Paradise or Bohemian Paradise), is an adventure traveler’s dream come true. Located 100 kilometers (60 miles) northeast of Prague on the Jizera River, Cesky Raj is a beautiful region that lies between the Czech towns of Turnov, Jicin and Mnichovo Hradiste.
The area is best known for its sandstone rock towns, old castles, Czech garnets and beautiful natural scenery.
Things to Do in Cesky Raj
Regardless of the season, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Cesky Raj. Hiking and biking trails are plentiful in the spring, summer, and autumn. Trails are color-coded and well marked, and there are bike rentals available throughout the area.
In the winter Cesky Raj offers cross-country and downhill skiing as well as snow hiking.
For those that like to climb and explore, Cesky Raj’s sandstone rock towns, rock formations, and castle ruins provide great opportunities.
While most visitors to Cesky Raj go for the hiking and climbing, you can also enjoy paragliding, swimming (indoor and outdoor), river rafting, boating, horseback riding, golfing, fishing, and mushroom foraging.
Transportation from Prague to Cesky Raj
Buses from Prague Cesky Raj: Buses run regularly from Prague’s Cerny Most bus station to Jicin. There are also buses to Turnov. The journey takes around 1.5 hours.
Trains from Prague to Cesky Raj: Trains depart from Prague’s Hlavni Nadrazi (central station) and travel to Jicin and Turnov in around 2 hours.
Driving from Prague to Cesky Raj: Driving from Prague to Cesky Raj (Jicin) takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Hotels and Camping in Cesky Raj
Many visitors take advantage of the camp sites in Cesky Raj. For those that choose not to, there are plenty of hotels and other accommodation in the area. One good option for a hotel in Cesky Raj is Hotel Zamek Hruba Skala.