Radostná Pod Kozákovem brings together landscape and geology with recurring local traditions. The municipality lies entirely within the Český ráj Protected Landscape Area; in the settlement of Kozákov, semi-precious stones and their deposits take centre stage. There is also a spring with a chapel, marked hiking trails, and seasonal and pre-Lenten events. Nature, geology and culture each offer a specific point of interest here.
Landscape, Spring and Name
The name Radostná Pod Kozákovem derives from the Radostná Spring. Kozákov itself is a very old geological formation created by volcanic activity, and a site where unique minerals are found. The municipality lies entirely within the Český ráj Protected Landscape Area—meaning the protected-area designation covers the whole locality.
The settlement of Kozákov is also home to Votrubcův Quarry, a significant natural feature and a well-known site for semi-precious stones. The quarry and Kozákov’s geological significance are two specific points of interest for anyone interested in minerals and where they are found.
Gemstones and Reasons to Visit
Every year during the summer months of July and August, the municipal office hosts an exhibition of gemstones from deposits in Kozákov and the surrounding area. If you are travelling specifically for the exhibition, check the exact event dates.
Traditions and Chapels
During the pre-Lenten season, Radostná Pod Kozákovem holds an annual costumed procession with a horse-drawn carriage. The tradition dates back to 1982 and ends with a pre-Lenten ball. If you are planning a visit around this custom, the pre-Lenten season is the relevant time; check the exact event dates in advance.
The chapels also offer a glimpse into local history. The Radostná Spring has a chapel dating from 1841. The chapel in Volavec was restored on the outside in 2017 and inside in 2018. These dates distinguish the historic year of construction from the later restoration work.
Hiking and Cycling Routes
The Radostná Spring lies above Radostná Pod Kozákovem along blue- and yellow-marked hiking trails. Along with its chapel dating from 1841, it is also a specific destination to include in a hiking plan. The spring’s location, its connection to the municipality’s name and the marked trails bring the landscape and local history together here.
Two cycling route sections are listed, each with a different road number and endpoints. The cycle path along road II/282 runs from the junction by the cross to Lestkov and was completed in 2019. The second construction phase of the cycle path along road II/283 connects Lestkov with Tatobity; it was completed in 2010. As route conditions can change, check them before your ride. The completion years reflect the historical status of the construction work, not the current condition of the routes.
Discover more destinations: Končiny, Benešov U Semil, Mirova Pod Kozakovem, Jablonec Nad Jizerou, Burany, Olešnice, Roztoky U Jilemnice, Bělá U Staré Paky.
For the broader travel overview: Okres Semily.
