Locations rich in weird and wonderful rock formations are interesting as well as beautiful places. The Adršpach-Teplice Rocks comprise some of the most popular rock formations in the Czech Republic. Here you can squeeze through gorges, let your imagination run wild when looking at the various shapes created by the rocks and take a boat ride that passes perilously close to the cliffs. So take a trip to these gorges and squeeze between rock towers tens of metres high.
The Adršpach-Teplice Rocks are located in a triangle between the villages of Teplice nad Metují, Adršpach and Čáp Peak above the village of Skály. Perhaps few will be aware that this was once the bottom of the ocean! When the chalk receded in these places, two groups of rock formations were left, divided by the Vlčí Gorge.
A waterfall under a spell
The trails through the rock formations wind between bizarre forms that have been given even more bizarre (and often fitting) names – Mayor and Mayoress, Eagle’s Nest, the Tooth and Devil’s Bridge. Take a break from walking at the Great Waterfall – to see the water you have to recite a secret spell. Above the waterfall you’ll discover a small reservoir where you can take a row boat ride. At the end of the route is the Echo, an impressive spectacle indeed. This was well known about in 1783, when locals would play on the horn and fire off guns for tourists. The echo of the shots could be heard seven times as it rebounded off the rock walls of Křížový Peak.
Teplice Rocks
You’ll need at least three hours to complete the Teplice circuit. Along the way you’ll encounter bizarre and aptly named rock formations such as the Caterpillar, Butcher’s Axe and the Golem. You certainly shouldn’t miss the exciting climb up a set of ladders to the ruins of Střmen Castle, now a viewing platform. Your steps will also take you under the huge, smooth Guard Tower, one of the symbols of the Teplice Rocks. At the Sibiř fork in the trail, head up the stone steps across the Great Temple Square to the Stone Chapel. Squeeze through a narrow passageway into the Lion’s Cage and you’ll find yourself in Krakonoš’ Garden. All around you rise the best known rock formations in the Teplice Rocks – Rock Crown, the Church, Martin’s Walls and the Rock Temple. Believe us when we say you won’t know where to look first.
Ostaš Labyrinth
Another location worth visiting is the Broumov Cliffs. Here you’ll find picturesque sandstone cliffs, deep ravines, gorges and viewing points in attractive countryside carpeted in forest. Our stroll though the local rock formations is nearly done, but we shouldn’t forget the Ostaš nature reserve where you can lose yourself in labyrinths of rock. If you make it through the Upper and Lower labyrinths, the walking route offers some amazing sights such as groups of cliffs, caves and passageways.