A 380-metre-long ski slope, a glassworks with residential buildings for 16 glassworker families, and hiking trails with named destinations give Svahová a distinct character. The village combines winter activities with an industrial history that reaches back to the alum works in Jirkov. When planning your visit, consider the time of year and whether you would prefer to focus on hiking, cycling or winter sports.
Early Local History and the Glass Industry
The first written record of Svahová dates from 1563. The village was probably founded in the mid-16th century, closely connected with the alum works in Jirkov. In its early days, Svahová was mainly home to woodcutters who worked for the alum works. The village’s history thus links everyday life in its early years with work at the alum works.
Another glimpse into the area’s industrial history is the Georghütte glassworks, also known as Jiřího huť. Its complex included a steam engine with a stamping mill, the glassworks, tool sheds, stables and residential buildings for 16 glassworker families. The number of families and the variety of buildings give a clear picture of how production and housing came together at this site.
Winter Between the Ski Slope and Local History
The ski slope in Svahová is 380 metres long, and one section can also be used for sledging. The Berghotel Svahová is right next to a ski slope where you can ski in winter. Before your winter visit, check whether it is currently operating before making plans around these facilities.
The construction of a ski lift from nearby Farský vrch to the confluence of the Lužec is also part of the village’s winter sports history. It is useful to distinguish between the two when planning: the ski slope is associated with specific winter activities, while the ski lift should be understood as a historic structure.
Hiking Trails and a Mountain Biking Route
The green-marked hiking trail from Svahová runs along the foot of Kohoutí vrch and reaches the Zákoutí viewpoint. Nearby, on Mezihořský vrch, there is a cross and a bench for pilgrims. The long-distance hiking routes E3 and Stezka Českem also pass through the area around Svahová. Before setting out, check the current trail markings, route and trail conditions.
For mountain bikers, a route described as challenging passes through Svahová and between the Berghotel Lesná and Boleboř. This clearly distinguishes it from the green-marked hiking trail with its named destination, Zákoutí: this route focuses on a challenging cycling trail. Check the current route conditions before setting off on this ride as well.
Refreshments and Getting There
Hájovna Svahová has a cosy dining room. It serves beer, homemade lemonade, pancakes and lángos. As the menu may change, check what is currently available before your visit.
If you are driving to Hájovna, check the parking situation in advance: there is no car park with sufficient capacity nearby. Parking at Hotel Svahová is possible by prior arrangement, provided no large event is taking place there at the time. Travelling by bus is not recommended, as there is no suitable stop nearby.
Discover more destinations: Výsluní, Údlice, Pětipsy, Vysoká Jedle, Hrušovany U Chomutova, Všestudy, Kalek, Kryštofovy Hamry.
For the broader travel overview: Chomutov District.
