Chvaletice brings together geology, cycling and traces of its mining history. The town lies at the northwestern edge of the Železné hory National Geopark: the ridge of the Železné hory ends here, while the Východočeská tabule stretches out beyond the Elbe. Cycle route stops, viewpoints and protected buildings reveal different sides of the town. When choosing Chvaletice, you can tailor your stay to your interests: geology and cycling go hand in hand with local history and walks by the river.
Explore the geology by bike
The MAGEO geological cycle route is 29 km long and has 13 information boards. Its stops in Chvaletice include Chvaletická vyhlídka and Chvaletice railway station. Its length, information boards and named stops give the route a clear geological focus. A cycle route reaches Chvaletice via an underpass at the railway station and continues from there along the river to Týnec nad Labem. Check the signs and surface conditions before setting out.
Views and access
At the western edge of old Chvaletice in Hornická čtvrť, there are two information boards along the road from Chvaletice to Horušice. They offer a wide view over the geological site; check on arrival whether the boards are still there. Chvaletická vyhlídka also offers far-reaching views across the landscape. In good visibility, Sněžka can also be seen clearly, so the distant view depends on the weather.
Access to the geological site is only possible with special permission because it includes a military area, a quarry and private property. Check the local access situation before attempting to enter.
Mining history and monuments
The local rocks bear witness to two seas of different ages, volcanic activity, folding during mountain building and a significant accumulation of ores. This geological past belongs to a different timescale from the mining that later transformed Chvaletice. Large parts of the original settlement were destroyed by mining, and Hornická Čtvrť was built for the miners.
The Evangelical church in Hornická Čtvrť was built and consecrated in 1882 in the Neo-Renaissance style and is a protected cultural monument. The former Masaryk Primary School in Hornická Čtvrť was completed in 1930 to a design by the architect Řepa; it is protected as an immovable cultural monument. The church and former school represent different functions of the district: religious architecture and education. A Jan Hus monument on a meadow below the Evangelical church commemorates the 500th anniversary of his execution.
Walks along the Elbe
Walking along the banks of the Elbe is another activity in Chvaletice. It offers an option focused on walking, alongside the cycle routes and historic sites in Hornická Čtvrť. This means that, in addition to cycling and local history, you can also choose an activity by the river.
Discover more destinations: Rohoznice, Slepotice, Spojil, Labské Chrčice, Valy, Ostřetín, Kunětice, Čeperka.
Go to the regional travel overview: Pardubice District.
