Kyjov is a small village with traditional wooden houses near Krásná Lípa. The Kyjovské Valley is nearby, where a paved path runs through the valley and hiking and cycling trails, as well as natural paths into the rocks, branch off. When planning an outing, it is worth distinguishing between the different routes and their requirements: in addition to a short loop, there are more challenging access routes and longer connections.

Sandstone Scenery and History in the Kyjovské Valley

The Kyjovské Valley is located near Kyjov and is part of České Švýcarsko National Park. Walks offer views of sandstone formations, rock faces and towers, as well as viewpoints and natural areas. The valley is also part of the Kögler Nature Trail, the oldest natural science trail in Bohemia. Established in 1941, it is 23 kilometres long and has 39 stations with explanations in Czech and German.

The history of the area’s development is also part of its character: in 1884, the Mountain Association for the Kyjovské Valley began developing the valley and making its most interesting rock formations accessible. Memorial plaques to MUDr. Johann Hille and the brothers Eduard and František Bienert are set into the rock. Archaeological investigations at Kyjovský hrádek uncovered a furnace, remains of molten basalt, and several small metal vessels.

Kyjovský hrádek lies on a sandstone spur whose walls drop vertically into the Křinice Canyon. The approach from Krásná Lípa follows a yellow-marked trail that joins the Kögler Nature Trail. Several stone staircases, narrow paths and ladders make this route relatively challenging; seasonal conditions can affect its difficulty.

Hiking Trails with Different Levels of Difficulty

The Kyjovská Rock Trail is an approximately 2.5-kilometre loop starting in Kyjov; it takes about 1.5 hours. It passes through rocky terrain with numerous staircases and ladders and offers views of various rock formations. Take particular care on the trail when it is wet or icy. A longer hiking option runs from Krásná Lípa via Kamenná Horka, Kyjov, Kyjovský hrad, the Kyjovské Valley and Turistický most, continuing to Brtnický hrádek and Brtníky.

A different kind of route awaits at Klenotnice: it is easily reached via a red-marked trail from the Pod praporkem signpost in the Kyjovské Valley. Check the applicable parking restrictions before setting out. Klenotnice was formed when masses of rock collapsed, creating tunnels and chambers—in contrast to classic karst caves, the effects of water were not the decisive factor.

Another route option, the four-kilometre “Údolím říčky Křinice všemi smysly” (The Křinice Stream Valley Through All the Senses), opened in 2024. It runs between Restaurace U Fakulty, the Kyjovské Valley and Turistický most and is designated as accessible and suitable for families with children and pushchairs. Check local conditions before your visit.

Outings on Foot, by Bike or by the Water

The “Divokým údolím Křinice” (Through the Wild Křinice Valley) route runs from Kyjov through the Kyjovské Valley to Dolní mlýn and onward to Zadní Jetřichovice. It crosses the national border, as part of the route passes through German territory. Marked cycling routes also run through the valley to the German border. Return routes are available via Česká silnice or via Vlčí Hora and Sněžná to Kyjov or Krásná Lípa. Check the trail markings and conditions before setting out.

If you would like to combine an outing with a swimming spot, Kyjovská Reservoir is about one kilometre northeast of Kyjov. This natural swimming spot has a sandy bottom, a gently sloping entrance into the water, a grassy area for sunbathing and seating; parking is available nearby. Swimming and parking conditions may change seasonally, so it is advisable to check local conditions.

For the area around the experience trail, tourist bus 434 from Krásná Lípa or from the direction of Děčín is recommended. As the service is seasonal, check the current timetable when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Markvartice U Děčína, Labská Stráň, Rybniště, Blankartice, Dolní Poustevna, Velký Šenov, Janov U Hřenska, Studanka U Varnsdorf.

For the regional travel overview: Děčín District.