In the octagonal stone tower of a 19th-century shaft lime kiln, the Muzeum Vápenka tells seven centuries of life in the Albeřice Valley through short stories and extensive image material. The building also leads to an important part of local history: in the 19th century, limestone quarrying and lime burning contributed significantly to the livelihood of people in Horní Alberice. Here, the museum and the history of lime meet not only as subjects, but also in the historic building itself.

Local History and Museum

Horní Alberice is one of the oldest settlements in the Krkonoše Mountains; the village was first mentioned at the end of the 13th century. Horní Alberice is also the only place in the Krkonoše Mountains where the so-called lánové hospodářství has been preserved. This early first mention and the preserved cultural tradition offer different ways to explore the village’s history.

The Muzeum Vápenka is located in Zone I of Krkonoše National Park, in the Horní Alberice part of the municipality. Keys to the exhibition can be borrowed daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the reception of Penzion Vápenka, Horní Albeřice 13; admission is free. The stated hours refer to key collection. Briefly check the key return arrangements before your visit, as visitor regulations may change.

Limestone and Natural Features

The Albeřické lomy provide a habitat for protected, lime-loving plants and animals. In the deep open-pit Bischof's Quarry, the temperature remains around 7°C even in summer. The Albeřická Cave has an underground lake about 15 metres deep. Alongside the protected habitats, geological features such as the cool quarry and underground water are also highlights.

Trails by Season and Character

The red-marked Cesta bratří Čapků leads from Pomezní Boudy via Lysečiny, Horní Alberice and Trutnov to Úpice. It can be used by bicycle in summer and on cross-country skis in winter. Short detours from the route lead to the Muzeum Vápenka, making it easy to include a museum visit in this trail itinerary.

Another cross-country skiing route is the Krkonošská magistrála. It passes through Horní Alberice between Lysečinská bouda and Rýchorská bouda. Snow conditions and trail grooming may vary seasonally; take them into account when planning your winter trip.

A third route description leads from Černá hora via Albeřice to Malá Úpa. After a quieter stretch through forests and meadows, the route reaches Horní Alberice.

When choosing, consider which route character matters to you: the Cesta bratří Čapků offers the explicitly described seasonal options for cycling and cross-country skiing, as well as short detours to the museum. The Krkonošská magistrála is a cross-country skiing route between the two mountain huts, where snow conditions and trail grooming should be taken into account. The route from Černá hora offers a quieter stretch through forests and meadows.

For the overview of the wider trip: Horní Marsov.