The area around Borovnice U Staré Paky offers two distinct landscape highlights: the geological formations at Vidochov–Zlatnice quarry and the panorama from the Kozinec observation tower. At the quarry, the focus is on rock, a lake and former mining activities; at the tower, on numerous named places and landscapes. This contrast provides a practical guide when choosing where to stay.
Vidochov–Zlatnice: Lake and Geological Formations
The quarry lies between Vidochov and Horka u Staré Paky. A small lake sits in a smaller Permian melaphyre body; the site is above old mining workings and open pits in the forest by the Zlatnice stream. The area around the outcrop therefore includes several specific features: the lake and bedrock, former extraction activities, and the wooded stream area. The Permian melaphyre body describes the geological setting, while the location above old workings and open pits adds the site’s history of use.
Grey volcanic breccia, blocks of vesicular lava and jasper veins are exposed at the surface. For geology-minded travellers, the special appeal lies in understanding the site through its specific rock formations rather than solely through its landscape setting. If you are planning a visit to the quarry, please check the current conditions beforehand.
Geology in the Wider Travel Area
In the wider travel area, the geological perspective extends beyond the quarry. The geological collection of the Krkonoše Museum includes a large amount of material from sites in Horka u Staré Paky, including araucarites. Thus, alongside the individual outcrop, finds from Horka are also part of a broader collection.
Panorama and Hiking Route at Kozinec
The nearby Kozinec observation tower offers a different perspective on the landscape. Its viewing platform is 33 metres high. From the tower, there are views of Nová Paka, Kumburk, Tábor, Kozákov, Ještěd, the Krkonoše Mountains, the Bohemian Paradise, Zvičina and Pecka Castle. In very good visibility, the Orlické Mountains and Kunětická hora can also be seen. A green-marked hiking route leads from Horka u Staré Paky railway station via a paved turnoff to the observation tower on its subsidiary peak. Check the current trail conditions before planning your visit. Plan on seeing the Orlické Mountains and Kunětická hora only if visibility is very good.
Two Different Highlights
The difference is also one of scale: at the quarry, the geological bedrock and individual rock formations take centre stage; from Kozinec, the view takes in many named destinations. If you are looking for a hotel in Borovnice U Staré Paky, you can use these differences to decide which type of surroundings you would like to shape your stay.
Discover more destinations: Horni Olesnice, Libotov, Havlovice, Staré Buky, Čistá V Krkonoších, Trotina, Lánov, Nemojov
Go to the overview of the wider travel area: Okres Trutnov.
