One of the best things about exploring Europe is that the entire country is like something right out of a fairy tale book. There are stunning castles, ancient ruins, and winding mystical waterways no matter where you decide to visit. There’s no better place to visit in the Czech Republic than Adrspach-Teplice Rock Nature Reserve.
The majestic rock formations aren’t far from the Czech city of Trutnov and it is worth dedicating a full day to exploring. Known by some as the “City of Rocks,” the thousands of rock towers throughout the reserve showcase nature’s true magic. Some towers stand over 800 meters tall with a Great Waterfall at the heart of the formations. Legend has it that the village that once occupied the area was cursed by the gods after letting foreign invaders take their land. As retribution, the gods turned the inhabitants and the buildings into stone that grew from the earth.
While legends may not always be true, scientists have proven that the formations at Adrspach Rocks date back millions of years. This hidden European rock kingdom is worth visiting on any trip to the Czech Republic.
History Of The Rocks
Although modern technologies move many travelers, others are fascinated by the beauty they find in wide open spaces. Adrspach Rocks is a one-of-a-kind destination proving how nature can overcome the hearts with simple elements. Water was the main force in forming the rock towers. Approximately 89 million years ago, the rocks formed due to large bodies of water receding from their settlements. Over time, the sediment left behind turned into clay and, later, sandstone. Millions of years later, the formations tower over the valley outside of Trutnov.
Adrspach Rocks weren’t accessible until the area was impacted by a major fire in 1824. After that, it was purchased by an English baron who developed the land. Many of the hiking trails throughout the reserve were carved out by this baron and it became popular amongst tourists visiting the area.
Inside the reserve, visitors will find an abundance of rare and threatened plant and animal species. Adrspach Rocks is a destination where respect for the ecosystem is a top priority to ensure the species that live there can coexist peacefully with visitors. The Great Waterfall stands in the middle of the formation, the turquoise waters of Piskovna Lake, and multiple looping trails lined with giant rock formations.
Visiting Adrspach-Teplice Rock Nature Reserve
Getting to Adrspach Rocks isn’t hard. It’s best to start from Trutnov and take a 50-minute train ride to the nature reserve. Travelers are advised to bring everything they need along with them. That includes food, drinks, or supplies you may need for exploring. There aren’t any vendors inside the nature reserve, so it’s important to come prepared.
Both tickets and parking passes must be purchased in advance for those visiting during the reserve’s peak hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost of tickets also changes during peak hours. For the best rates and smaller crowds, travelers should visit Adrspach either early in the morning or during the evening. Despite being one of the most beautiful places in the Czech Republic, admission to Adrspach Rocks is inexpensive. Tickets range from between $4 to $6 with even cheaper rates for children.