Prachov Rocks

The Prachov Rocks (Prachovské skály) are a sandstone rock city in the Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) in northern Bohemia, Czechia, about 5 kilometres west of Jičín and one of the most visited spots in the region. The sandstone is over 60 million years old, and wind and rain have been shaping towers and ravines ever since. The area has been a nature reserve since 1933. Individual rocks have names such as Leaning Tower, Devil's Kitchen, Monk, Elephant and Eagle.

There are two circular trails. The short one takes about 45 minutes, begins with a rock crevice only 35 centimetres wide, leads to the two best-known viewpoints and returns through the Emperor's Passage. The long circuit is 3.5 kilometres, takes up to 2.5 hours and passes seven viewpoints over steps cut into the rock and narrow passages; some sections are risky for older visitors.

Only walkers are allowed: bicycles and roller skates stay outside. You can swim or sunbathe at the pond, and about 239 rock formations are open to climbers. Allow an afternoon for everything. From Jičín it is about 6 kilometres towards Sobotka via Holín to Prachov, where two car parks serve the starting points. An entry fee is charged; check conditions beforehand.