Adrspach: The Complete Guide

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of the Czech Republic, near the Polish border in the Hradec Králové Region, Adršpach is one of Central Europe’s most surreal natural destinations. The village itself may seem unassuming, but just beyond it lies the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks—a labyrinth of towering sandstone pillars, narrow gorges, and moss-covered cliffs that seem straight out of a fantasy film. It’s a place where nature’s handiwork has created a dreamlike landscape, drawing hikers, photographers, and families eager to explore its sculpted formations.

A walk through the Adršpach Rocks takes you along a well-maintained circuit trail that weaves past dramatic stone shapes with names like “Lovers,” “Mayor and Mayoress,” and “Sugar Loaf.” Along the way, you’ll cross wooden footbridges, squeeze through tight crevices, and discover cascading waterfalls and emerald lakes nestled among the cliffs. The trail is mostly suitable for all fitness levels, though some stairs and steeper sections require moderate effort. It’s an unforgettable experience that rewards curiosity and invites visitors to slow down and take in the details.

The nearby town of Teplice nad Metují makes an ideal base for exploring the area, and access to the rock city is easy by train or car. Amenities are available at the park entrance, including ticket booths, a café, and rental shops. Whether you visit in spring for greenery, autumn for foliage, or even winter when the rocks are dusted with snow, Adršpach offers a uniquely immersive escape into the raw beauty of the Czech countryside.

History of Adrspach

Early Mentions and Medieval Ownership of Adrspach

The earliest known reference to Adršpach dates back to the 14th century, when the region was part of a feudal estate. During this period, the area fell under the control of various noble families, including the lords of Donín and later the Berka of Dubá. A Gothic castle was likely constructed among the rocky outcrops as a defensive stronghold, although only ruins remain today. The region was primarily used for hunting and timber, and its difficult terrain kept it relatively isolated from the surrounding political turmoil.

Adrspach in the Renaissance and Early Modern Period

By the 16th and 17th centuries, the Adršpach estate changed hands multiple times, often through marriage or sale among the Bohemian nobility. During the Thirty Years’ War (1618–1648), the region suffered raids and instability, like much of Central Europe. Despite this, the area remained prized for its forestry resources and unique landscape. By the end of the 17th century, Adršpach had become a curiosity for aristocrats and academics interested in its unusual rock formations, although mass tourism was still centuries away.

The Rise of Tourism in Adrspach in the 18th and 19th Centuries

In the 18th century, the dramatic rock formations began attracting attention from writers, painters, and early travelers. A significant fire in 1824 destroyed large parts of the surrounding forests, which in turn opened up the rocky landscape and made it more accessible. This event is widely considered the catalyst for Adršpach’s transformation into a tourist destination. By the 19th century, walking paths, wooden ladders, and signage were introduced, allowing visitors to explore the rock labyrinths with greater ease. Romanticism helped popularize the area as a natural wonder, and the site was featured in various travel journals and guidebooks.

Modern Preservation and Popularity of Adrspach

During the 20th century, Adršpach became increasingly popular, especially after the establishment of national nature reserves in the 1930s. Efforts to protect the fragile sandstone formations and surrounding biodiversity intensified after World War II. Today, Adršpach is part of the Broumovsko Protected Landscape Area and receives hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Its striking scenery has even appeared in films and commercials, cementing its place as one of the Czech Republic’s most iconic natural attractions.

Visiting Adrspach for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Adrspach on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1. Adršpach-Teplice Rocks Nature Reserve – Adrspach

The primary attraction in Adrspach is the breathtaking Adršpach-Teplice Rocks, a vast labyrinth of towering sandstone formations, gorges, and hidden caves. The site is famous for dramatic rock pillars with names like “Lovers” and “Mayor and Mayoress,” carved by centuries of wind and water erosion. Well-marked walking trails of varying lengths guide visitors through this surreal landscape, passing emerald lakes, waterfalls, and tight crevices that make each step a small adventure.

Entry to the reserve costs around 180 CZK for adults. The site is open daily, usually from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM in high season (spring to early autumn), with shorter hours in winter. Boat rides on the Adršpach lake are available in warmer months and offer a peaceful way to view the rocks from a different perspective.

2. Teplice nad Metují Rocks – Adrspach

Less visited than their Adršpach counterparts, the Teplice Rocks are equally captivating and are located just a short drive or hike away. These formations are more rugged and remote, with fewer crowds, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature. Highlights include narrow rock corridors and spectacular lookouts such as the castle ruins of Střmen.

Entry is usually included with a combined ticket for Adršpach and Teplice Rocks. Trailheads are clearly marked, and the paths are well maintained but can be steeper than in Adršpach. Allow 2–3 hours to explore this area fully, and make sure to bring good hiking shoes.

3. Křížový vrch (Cross Hill) – Adrspach

For panoramic views of the entire Adršpach rock landscape, hike up to Křížový vrch, also known as Cross Hill. The trail ascends gradually and offers sweeping vistas over the sandstone formations and nearby villages. A historic chapel and stone cross at the summit give the site a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere.

The walk up takes about 30–45 minutes from the town center and is free of charge. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty of the region from above, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the rocks glow with golden light.

4. Chateau Adršpach – Adrspach

This small but charming 18th-century château lies near the entrance to the rock town and offers insights into the area’s noble past. While the interior is not always open to the public, the building and its setting are worth a short stop. An adjacent park with old trees and views toward the rocks makes for a pleasant stroll.

Check in advance for seasonal opening times or special events. Entry to the exterior grounds is typically free, and guided tours may occasionally be available during the summer or for groups upon request.

5. Střmen Castle Ruins – near Teplice nad Metují

Perched atop a rocky outcrop within the Teplice Rocks area, the ruins of Střmen Castle date back to the 13th century. Reaching the site involves a steep climb up ladders and stairs, but those who make the effort are rewarded with striking views and a sense of medieval mystery. Only fragments of the castle remain, but its location offers a dramatic setting for photos and reflection.

The ruins are accessible via the hiking trail from the Teplice entrance and are included in the rock town ticket. Due to the climb and exposure, it’s best suited for visitors in good physical condition and without a fear of heights.

6. Broumov Monastery – Broumov

Located about 9 km northeast of Adrspach, Broumov Monastery is a magnificent Baroque complex founded in the 14th century and rebuilt by the famous Dientzenhofer family. The richly decorated interiors include a vast library, an 18th-century pharmacy, and the oldest preserved copy of the Turin Shroud. Guided tours offer an in-depth look at the cultural and religious life of the region.

Admission is around 160 CZK. Tours are available in Czech and often with printed guides in other languages. The monastery is open most of the year, typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with shorter hours off-season.

7. Police nad Metují – Museum of Paper

About 10 km from Adrspach lies the town of Police nad Metují, home to a unique Museum of Paper. This small but fascinating museum showcases traditional paper-making techniques, with hands-on exhibits and old printing presses. The experience is interactive, making it a hit for families and curious travelers.

Entry costs around 80 CZK, and guided tours can often be arranged in English. It’s a great rainy-day activity or a good stop when exploring the broader Broumov region.

8. Ostaš Nature Reserve – Near Police nad Metují

The Ostaš plateau is a less-known sandstone area with eerie rock formations, maze-like paths, and panoramic views of the Broumov Basin. It’s quieter than Adršpach or Teplice, offering solitude and intriguing sights like “Cat Rock” and the “Devil’s Car.”

Parking is available at the trailhead, and access is free. Trails are moderately easy and well-suited to families or casual hikers. It’s a rewarding half-day trip that feels more off the beaten path.

9. Skalní město – Zdoňov

Zdoňov is a small village near Adršpach that serves as a less touristy entry point into the rock formations. It’s ideal for those wanting to avoid the crowds and take in the natural surroundings at a slower pace. Local guesthouses and farms give it a rustic charm, and it’s also the starting point for several cycling and walking trails.

There is no entry fee to walk from Zdoňov into nearby trails, but facilities are limited, so come prepared. It’s a great place to begin or end a longer trek.

10. Janovice Castle – Janovice u Trutnova

Just under 10 km southwest of Adršpach, this Renaissance-Baroque manor is privately owned but occasionally opens its grounds or hosts cultural events and exhibitions. Though not grand, its setting in rolling countryside and quiet gardens provides a contrasting experience to the wild rocks of Adršpach.

If open, there may be a small entry fee (around 50–100 CZK). Check locally for opening times or events, particularly in summer. It’s an offbeat but pleasant stop for those interested in manor houses and regional history.