The Krkonoše Mountains are beautiful in every season. But when the highest Czech mountains are blanketed with snow they immediately become a winter wonderland that’s nearly impossible to resist. You can experience this enchanting landscape on downhill or cross-country skis and also during trips to the local waterfalls or atop one of the Krkonoše’s mountain peaks. It’s no wonder that the Krkonoše are the most visited mountains in the Czech Republic – it’s a place tailor-made for a wonderful winter holiday.
Do you like long downhill runs, distant views, excellent service and pleasantly shimmering sunshine? That’s just what you’ll find at the acclaimed ski resorts of the Krkonoše Mountains. The most renowned resorts are found in the famous ski centres of Špindlerův Mlýn; Pec pod Sněžkou, which lies directly in the shadow of Sněžka, the highest Czech mountain; Harrachov, which is an excellent base for exploring the wider area; and Rokytnice nad Jizerou, where in addition to skiing you can also indulge in a little adrenaline seeking by trying paragliding. How best to relax after a great day on the slopes? You can immerse yourself in a beer spa in Harrachov or warm up with a tangerine-scented sauna at the Praha Wellness Hotel in Špindlerův Mlýn!
Peaks and valleys on cross-country skis
When hurtling down the Krkonoše slopes, some of the beauty all around you may become a snowy blur. So snap into cross-country skis and try out some of the groomed trails that criss-cross this piece of the Arctic right in the heart of Europe. For instance, you can set off on the Krkonoše Cross-Country Route, which will lead you through valleys and across saddles to the very peaks of mountains, from where you will have absolutely stunning views of deep glacial valleys, steep avalanche slopes, protracted plateaus and charming snow-dusted villages.
Romantic walks through the crackling snow
However, you don’t have to tackle the biggest Czech mountains only on skis. Even in winter you can set off on well-trodden paths to discover the unique natural richness that earned the Krkonoše National Park the designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. For a beautiful and low-impact outing you can head out from Harrachov to the nearby Mumlava Waterfalls.
Pleasantly unwind after an excellent meal
How to end a perfect day in the Krkonoše Mountains? By sampling some of the local specialties! Try a warming bowl of krkonošské kyselo or kulajda soup, both made with mushrooms, potatoes and egg, or a plate of delicious fruit dumplings, which you can find in any pub or restaurant serving traditional Czech cuisine. After a hearty dinner, entrust your body to the care of one the wellness hotels in Harrachov, Špindlerův Mlýn, Pec pod Sněžkou or another Krkonoše resort to recharge your batteries for another great day in the highest Czech mountains.