How to Use the Vyšenské Hills Nature Reserve Hiking Map

The Vyšenské Hills nature reserve hiking map is essential for a smooth trip. You can find physical maps at the Official Tourism portal in the town square. Digital versions are also available on most local hiking apps. The trail is marked with green and white diagonal stripes. This loop is about 2.5 kilometers long and very manageable.

Before you start, check these quick picks for your visit. The best overall spot is the main viewpoint overlooking the valley. Families will enjoy the interactive information boards near the start. For a free activity, the entire trail is open year-round without any fees. It is one of the best walking routes in Český Krumlov for quiet reflection.

• Best Overall: Vyšenské Hills Viewpoint
• Best for Families: Trailhead Information Boards
• Best Free Activity: The entire loop trail
• Best Rainy-Day: Nearby Monasteries (indoor alternative)

9 Highlights on the Vyšenské Hills Nature Trail

Following the Vyšenské Hills nature trail allows you to see the best of South Bohemia. The path moves through forests and open meadows. Each stop offers a new look at the local environment. Here are the top nine items to look for on your map.

1. Name: Nádražní Street Trailhead Type: Sight Why go: This is the official starting point near the train station. It features the first large map board. Best for: Easy navigation. Where: North of the train station. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the train station. Tip: Take a photo of the map here for backup.
2. Name: Protected Calcareous Grasslands Type: Experience Why go: This area hosts rare plants that only grow in limestone soil. It is a scientific treasure. Best for: Botany lovers. Where: First third of the trail. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green markers from the start. Tip: Stay on the path to protect the flora and fauna on the walk.
3. Name: Vyšenské Hills Viewpoint Type: Viewpoint Why go: You get a sweeping view of the Vltava River valley and the town. Best for: Photography. Where: The highest point of the loop. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short uphill climb from the grasslands. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best light on the castle.
4. Name: The Abandoned Limestone Quarry Type: Sight Why go: It shows the geological history of the region. The white rock faces are very striking. Best for: Geology fans. Where: Middle section of the trail. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Clearly marked on the hiking map. Tip: Look for fossils in the loose stones near the path.
5. Name: Rare Orchid Meadows Type: Nature Why go: In May and June, several species of wild orchids bloom here. It is a colorful sight. Best for: Nature enthusiasts. Where: Western slope of the hills. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the trail markers past the quarry. Tip: Bring a zoom lens for flower photography.
6. Name: Information Stop 10 (Butterfly Habitat) Type: Experience Why go: This specific stop explains the rare butterflies found in the reserve. Best for: Families with kids. Where: Near the end of the loop. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Part of the main circular route. Tip: Visit on a sunny day to see the most insect activity.
7. Name: The Mixed Beech Forest Type: Nature Why go: This section provides cool shade and a different ecosystem. It feels like a deep wilderness. Best for: Cooling off on hot days. Where: Northern part of the reserve. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: The trail enters the woods after the meadows. Tip: Watch your footing on exposed tree roots.
8. Name: Kleť Mountain Lookout Type: Day Trip Why go: This is the highest peak in the Blanský Forest. It features an old stone tower. Best for: Hikers wanting a challenge. Where: 6km north of the reserve. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Small fee for the tower. Getting there: Follow the green trail to the blue trail. Tip: You can take a chairlift up if you are tired.
9. Name: Dívčí Kámen Castle Ruins Type: Day Trip Why go: These massive ruins sit on a rock above the Vltava. It is very atmospheric. Best for: History buffs. Where: 10km from the reserve. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Modest entry fee. Getting there: Train to Třísov, then a short walk. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the State Castle website info for a full history day.

Tips for Hiking Near Český Krumlov

The Vyšenské Hills are beautiful in every season. Spring is best for flowers, while autumn offers vibrant leaf colors. Wear sturdy shoes because the limestone can be slippery when wet. Always carry water, as there are no shops inside the reserve. Most hikers finish the trail and then visit the castle complex route in the afternoon.

Respect the local environment by taking your trash with you. The reserve is a protected area, so do not pick any plants. If you have extra time, explore the old town's narrow streets. The town is very walkable and safe for solo travelers. Checking the weather forecast before you head out is always a good idea.