Holín brings together the landscape of Český ráj and a range of nature, culture and trail experiences. The entire municipality lies within the Český ráj Protected Landscape Area; the Prachovské skály Nature Reserve was designated in 1933. Other highlights include archaeological traces at Hradiště Prachov, the remains of Pařez Castle and routes with varying levels of difficulty. When planning your visit, it is therefore worth looking at individual destinations and their conditions.
Nature and trails
The routes differ clearly in length and stroller accessibility: the educational trail through Prachovské skály is 5 kilometres long and is not suitable for strollers. The Pelíškova dětská naučná stezka is a 1-kilometre circular route around the Pelíšek pond and is also suitable for strollers. It opened in July 2024. The two routes are easy to distinguish based on the length you want and whether you will be bringing a stroller.
The Vyhlídka Míru and Vyhlídka Českého ráje viewpoints together offer views of Prachovské skály, the ruins of Trosky Castle and Ještěd. Beyond Holín, Čistý pond, in the direction of Prachovské skály, offers a place to swim. Check the swimming conditions on site.
History in Holín and Prachov
The remains of Pařez Castle are located on the north-western edge of Prachovské skály; the castle was also known as Husí nůška. Its existence is documented as early as 1370. Hradiště Prachov offers a different glimpse of the past: it is designated as an immovable archaeological cultural monument. The settlement traces span the Neolithic and Bronze Ages, the La Tène period and the Roman-Germanic period, through to the Early Middle Ages.
Museum and public programmes
At the Muzeum přírody Český ráj, Prachov 37, a permanent exhibition explores the nature and history of Prachovské skály, Český ráj and the Jičín region. The museum garden includes a small botanical garden, animal enclosures, outdoor terrariums, ponds, an insect hotel, a beetle habitat and Pelíšková zahrádka. Check the current visiting arrangements before your visit.
The museum holds the annual Žabí běh, bird-song excursions, a gathering of amphibian and reptile enthusiasts, and other public programmes. Dates and programme details may change; check them if you would like to plan your stay around an event.
Getting around and staying active
The Jičín–Holín cycle path connects the western part of Jičín with Holín and can also be used on foot. On the outskirts of Jičín, it passes under Route 35 through an underpass. Surface and access information may change, so it is advisable to check the latest route information before setting out.
Bus route 510 from Jičín serves the “Holín, Prachov, Skalní město” stop. Check the current timetable before travelling. A seasonal tourist bike bus connects Jičín, Holín, Prachovské skály, Pařezská Lhota, Mladějov, Sobotka and Podkost. Check the current operating days and times before your journey.
The Zlatá stezka Českého ráje circular route is 26.5 kilometres long and runs through Jičín, Holín, Prachov, Horní Lochov, Brada and Kbelnice. Those interested in sandstone climbing will find a tradition in Prachovské skály that dates back to 1907 and continues to this day. Climbing is permitted only with the consent of the Schlik family, the owners, and in compliance with the applicable operating, climbing and nature conservation rules; check the current regulations before your visit.
The accessible tourist route through Prachovské skály starts and ends at the Prachov car park in Holín-Prachov and requires assistance. As route details may change, check them before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Boháňka, Vřesník, Jičín, Podulší, Tetín u Jičína, Bukovina u Pecky, Bašnice, Zelenecká Lhota.
For the broader travel overview: Jičín District.
