Around two hours north of Prague, the border between Bohemia and Saxony is cut by one of the strangest landscapes in central Europe: towers, ravines and arches of sandstone rising from the forest. The area is protected as Bohemian Switzerland National Park on the Czech side and Saxon Switzerland National Park across the border, and it is the nearest real wilderness to Prague. This guided small-group tour combines the best-known sights of both. The day begins at 7:00 with pickup in central Prague, followed by a drive by air-conditioned minivan with Wi-Fi, in a group limited to fourteen. In Germany you cross the Bastei Bridge, a stone viaduct high above the Elbe with views over the rock pinnacles. In the Czech Republic you take a forest hike to Pravčická Gate, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe, and travel by boat through the Kamenice gorge, known as the Wild Gorge. The booking page includes park admission and a lunch stop, with a live English-speaking guide. The tour takes about twelve hours, making it a long day, but the scenery is a world away from Prague's cobbled streets. It is a good choice for walkers and photographers.
What you will walk
The forest trail to Pravčická Gate is a moderate hike on a well-made path, and you should be comfortable with a couple of hours on your feet. The arch is a protected monument, and visitors can view it from nearby but cannot walk on it. A small castle built beside the arch, with a restaurant and exhibition, adds a human touch.
The Bastei section is more accessible, with viewing platforms that are crowded in season. The boat ride through the gorge is a highlight, with guides who pole the boat through narrow rock passages. Boat rides generally run only in the warmer months, so check the season for your date.
Planning
Pickup runs between about 6:45 and 7:30 in the morning from central Prague, with a meeting point in the Prague 2 district, so you need to be ready early. The group is small, which allows a flexible pace and personal attention. Wear sturdy shoes, bring layers and a rain jacket, and carry water. The tour is not suitable for those with serious mobility issues, because the hiking and steps make the day physically demanding. Gratuities are optional and not included.
When to go
Spring, early summer and autumn are the best seasons, when the forests are green or golden and the crowds are manageable. Winter can be beautiful, with snow on the rocks, but some facilities, including the boats, may be closed, so check with the operator. Free cancellation and rescheduling are available until 24 hours before. If you only have one day and want a nature escape, this is the best option from Prague.
If you prefer a historic town to wilderness, consider Český Krumlov or Kutná Hora instead. The reward for the early start is a day that feels far from the city, with forest air, rock walls and long views. Photographers should bring a charged camera and an extra layer, and everyone should bring a sense of adventure and a bottle of water.
What to expect
The experience
A guided small-group day tour by minivan from Prague (maximum of fourteen), with the Bastei Bridge, a forest hike to Pravčická Gate and a boat ride through the Kamenice gorge. Park admission and a lunch are listed as included.
Best time
Spring to autumn. Gorge boats generally run only in the warmer months, so check the season.
How long
About twelve hours, starting with pickup between about 6:45 and 7:30.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes and layers. Bring water. Gratuities are optional. Free cancellation until 24 hours before.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Hikers, photographers and nature lovers who want a day away from the city.
- Families
- Suitable for fit older children; the day is long and includes hiking.
- Couples
- Dramatic scenery and a boat through a gorge, in a small group.
- Pair with
- A relaxed evening in Prague, since the day is long and active.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
What does the tour include?+
Round-trip minivan transport with Wi-Fi, a live English-speaking guide, park admission and a lunch stop, according to the booking page. Gratuities are optional.
Which sights does it visit?+
The Bastei Bridge above the Elbe in Germany, a forest hike to Pravčická Gate in the Czech Republic and a boat ride through the Kamenice gorge.
How big is the group?+
A maximum of fourteen people.
Can I walk on Pravčická Gate?+
No. The arch is a protected monument that you view from nearby.
When do the gorge boats run?+
They generally operate only in the warmer months, so confirm for your date.
