Hradec Králové Region Road Trip: Sandstone Wonders, Fairy-Tale Castles and the Highest Peak in Czechia

From Elegant Hradec Králové to the Fairy Tales of Bohemian Paradise

Many visitors know the Hradec Králové Region only as the gateway to the Krkonoše Mountains. In reality, it offers one of the most varied road trips in Czechia, where elegant historic towns, dramatic sandstone rock cities, romantic castles, magnificent châteaux and breathtaking mountain scenery come together in a surprisingly compact area. Whether you are drawn by nature, history or local legends, every day on this route reveals a completely different side of northeastern Bohemia.

Start your journey in Hradec Králové, often called the "Salon of the Republic" thanks to its remarkable blend of medieval heritage and early twentieth-century architecture. Stroll through the historic Great Square, climb the White Tower for panoramic views across the city and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere created by the confluence of the Elbe and Orlice rivers. Elegant parks, riverside promenades and lively cafés make Hradec Králové one of the Czech Republic's most pleasant cities to explore.

Leaving the city behind, drive northeast through peaceful countryside to the magnificent Hrádek u Nechanic Chateau. Inspired by English Gothic country houses, this romantic residence feels more like a stately home in the British countryside than a traditional Czech château. Richly decorated interiors, beautifully landscaped gardens and centuries-old trees create an atmosphere of timeless elegance.

Continue towards Karlova Koruna Chateau, whose distinctive star-shaped design makes it one of the country's architectural masterpieces. Surrounded by an extensive English-style park, the château reflects the wealth and ambition of the noble Kinský family while offering visitors a peaceful introduction to the region's aristocratic history.

The landscape gradually becomes more wooded as you approach Jičín, forever associated with the beloved Czech fairy-tale character Rumcajs. Colourful historic buildings surround the picturesque square, while the town serves as the perfect gateway to the legendary landscapes of the Bohemian Paradise.

Only a short drive away lie the spectacular Prachov Rocks, one of Czechia's most famous sandstone labyrinths. Narrow passages twist between soaring rock towers, hidden viewpoints suddenly open onto endless forests, and every turn reveals another extraordinary natural sculpture shaped by millions of years of erosion. It is easy to understand why this landscape has inspired countless painters, photographers and filmmakers.

Nearby stands the remarkably preserved Kost Castle, rising above the surrounding forests like a medieval fortress untouched by time. Massive stone walls, elegant courtyards and a unique white tower create one of the most photogenic castles in the country. Local legend says the castle was named "Kost"—meaning "bone"—because it proved as impossible to conquer as a solid bone.

Before leaving this magical corner of Bohemia, take a peaceful walk through the romantic Plakánek Valley, where winding forest paths, sandstone cliffs and quiet ponds create one of the most tranquil landscapes of the entire region.

Sandstone Giants, Historic Monasteries and African Wildlife

Heading east, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as sandstone cliffs begin rising above the forests. Soon you arrive at the breathtaking Adršpach-Teplice Rocks, undoubtedly one of Europe's finest sandstone rock cities. Towering formations resemble giant cathedrals, castles and stone guardians, while narrow gorges, crystal-clear lakes and hidden pathways transform every walk into an unforgettable adventure. Few places in Central Europe combine such spectacular natural beauty with such an atmosphere of mystery.

Continue north through rolling countryside until you reach the remarkable Broumov Monastery. Founded centuries ago by Benedictine monks, it remains one of the region's most important cultural treasures. The magnificent Baroque interiors contrast beautifully with the peaceful silence that still defines this spiritual centre. The surrounding Broumov area, with its sandstone landscapes and traditional villages, feels wonderfully removed from the busy tourist routes.

Turning south again, make your way to the charming Renaissance town of Nové Město nad Metují. Its beautifully preserved triangular square, colourful arcaded houses and castle gardens make it one of the country's hidden architectural gems. Every corner seems designed for slow exploration rather than hurried sightseeing.

Not far away stands the elegant Opočno Chateau, where Renaissance architecture blends harmoniously with later Baroque additions. Lavishly furnished interiors, historic collections and peaceful gardens make it one of the finest aristocratic residences in eastern Bohemia.

From Opočno, continue towards one of the region's most famous attractions—the Dvůr Králové Safari Park. Unlike a traditional zoo, visitors can drive through expansive safari enclosures where herds of giraffes, zebras, antelopes and other African animals roam across open landscapes. It remains one of Europe's leading wildlife parks and offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

A short drive further south brings you to Kuks, one of the Czech Republic's most extraordinary Baroque complexes. While the former hospital and church are impressive in their own right, it is the remarkable collection of allegorical sculptures by Matthias Bernard Braun that truly captures the imagination. The expressive statues seem almost alive, giving this peaceful place a unique artistic atmosphere.

Into the Krkonoše Mountains and Back Through Medieval Bohemia

Leaving the rolling countryside behind, the road gradually climbs into the magnificent Krkonoše Mountains, the highest mountain range in Czechia. Dense forests give way to alpine meadows, while every kilometre reveals wider views across the surrounding landscape.

The highlight is undoubtedly Sněžka, the highest peak in the Czech Republic. Whether you choose to hike or take the cable car for part of the ascent, reaching the summit is an unforgettable experience. Standing at 1,603 metres above sea level, you can admire sweeping panoramas stretching across both Czechia and neighbouring Poland. On a clear day, the view seems almost endless.

Descending from the mountains, the journey continues through picturesque valleys towards the romantic Potštejn Castle Ruins. Perched dramatically above the village, the ruins are closely linked with one of Czechia's most famous legends—that of a hidden treasure guarded for centuries within the castle walls. Even without discovering the treasure yourself, the views across the surrounding countryside are reward enough.

From here, the scenic drive back towards Hradec Králové completes one of the Czech Republic's most rewarding circular road trips. Within just a few days you have explored fairy-tale castles, magnificent châteaux, dramatic sandstone labyrinths, peaceful monasteries, African wildlife, Baroque masterpieces and the country's highest mountain. Few regions offer such extraordinary diversity within such comfortable driving distances.

For travellers seeking far more than Prague, the Hradec Králové Region reveals a Czechia full of legends, spectacular landscapes and unforgettable discoveries around every bend in the road.