Attractions and Places To See in Přírodní Park Novohradské Hory - Top 20

The region is rich in history. You can visit the Nové Hrady complex, which features a historic castle and chateau with an extensive park. Another significant historical spot is the Hirschenwies border crossing, a poignant reminder of the former "Iron Curtain" on the Austrian-Czech border. Additionally, explore the Site of Silberberg (Stříbrné Hutě), a former mining and glass-blowing settlement with a melancholic history.

Přírodní Park Novohradské Hory is known for its exceptionally well-preserved nature. A must-see is Žofínský prales (Žofín Forest), one of the oldest nature reserves in Central Europe. You can also visit Terčino údolí (Theresa's Valley), a romantic natural park with a beautiful waterfall. The region also features numerous untouched meadows, peat bogs like Stodůlecké peat bog, and is the source of several rivers.

The park offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and running. You can find various routes, such as easy hikes like the Hamr Hammer Mill loop, or explore road cycling routes like the Gmünd Town Square – Nové Hrady loop. For more options, check out the guides for Easy hikes, Road Cycling Routes, and Running Trails in Přírodní Park Novohradské Hory.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The town of Nové Hrady, with its castle complex and extensive park, offers plenty to explore for all ages. The pilgrimage site of Dobra Voda, known for its church and reportedly healing springs, is also considered family-friendly.

For stunning panoramic views of the entire Novohradské Hory region, head to Kraví hora (Cow Mountain), which stands at 953 meters. Additionally, the pilgrimage site of Dobra Voda also offers a viewpoint.

Dobra Voda is a well-known mountain village and pilgrimage site. It is famous for its beautiful church and reportedly healing springs, where visitors can fill up their drinking water. It's a tranquil place of power, inviting relaxation and reflection.

The park is ideal for visiting during spring, summer, and autumn for hiking and cycling. The deep forests and picturesque valleys offer beautiful scenery, especially during these seasons. The region is also known for mushroom picking, which is typically best in late summer and early autumn.

Žofínský prales (Žofín Forest) is exceptionally special because it is recognized as one of the oldest nature reserves in Central Europe. It boasts an ancient forest that has remained largely untouched by human activity for centuries, offering a glimpse into pristine natural wilderness.

Yes, the park features several cycling routes. The Dolní Příbrání (Untersinnetschlag) Trail Junction is a key point where cycle route no. 34 and no. 1193 meet, offering connections to various parts of the region. You can find more detailed routes in the Road Cycling Routes in Přírodní Park Novohradské Hory guide.

The region's location in the former border zone played a crucial role in preserving its wild and untouched nature. During the 20th century, this area was part of the "Iron Curtain," which meant it was spared from extensive development or logging, contributing to its current state of natural preservation. The Hirschenwies border crossing is a direct remnant of this era.

Přírodní Park Novohradské Hory is a Natura 2000 Bird Area, making it a significant protected habitat for rare bird species. You might spot the Hazel Grouse (Bonasa bonasia) and Three-toed Woodpecker (Picoides tridactylus), as well as larger birds like the Black Stork and Eurasian Pygmy Owl.

Pohoří na Šumavě is a former border village with a poignant history. Once a vibrant community, it largely vanished due to the dramatic 20th-century history of the area, particularly its location within the former border zone. Its ruins, including a church, serve as a powerful reminder of the region's past.