Hiking in the Kaiserwald: 7 tours through the green heart of West Bohemia

The Kaiserwald (Slavkovský les) It’s the quiet counterpart to the sophisticated glamour of the spa towns of Karlovy Vary and Mariánské Lázně. Here you’ll find dense spruce forests, rare raised bogs, and a rich history. We’ve compiled seven hikes for you that showcase the best of the region.

1. The Three-Country Corner (Kladská): The Moorland Tour

Route: Circular route starting from Kladská (Balds).
This raised bog is one of the most beautiful places in the Czech Republic. You can hike along wooden boardwalks through a landscape that feels almost Nordic..
Distance: approx. 2 km (nature trail) or extendable to 10 km through the surrounding forests.

2. To the ruins of St. Nicholas Church (Podhorní vrch)

Route: Marienbad -> Podhorní vrch -> Church under the mountain.
A mystical path leads to the ruins of a medieval church, hidden deep in the forest. From the summit of Podhorní vrch, you also have the highest view in the Kaiserwald (Emperor’s Forest).
Distance: 12 km | Difficulty: Medium.

3. The Path of Love: From Marienbad to the Forest Spring

Route: Marienbad Center -> Max Valley -> Waldquelle.
A classic spa hike following in Goethe’s footsteps. Ideal for a relaxing afternoon.
Distance: 5 km | Difficulty: Light.

4. Along the Eger River: From Loket to Hans-Heiling-Rock

Route: Loket (elbow) -> Svatošské skály (Hans Heiling Rocks).
A beautiful river hike through the deeply carved Eger Valley. The bizarre rock formations are a highlight for photographers.
Distance: 10 km (round trip) | Difficulty: Light.

5. Mining history in Lauterbach (Čistá)

Route: Krasno -> Krásno lookout tower -> Former town of Čistá.
Hike to one of the most original observation towers in the Czech Republic and visit the remains of a town that had to give way to mining after the war.
Distance: 8 km | Difficulty: Medium.

6. Through the Teplá Highlands to Teplá Monastery

Route: Teplá Station -> Monastery complex -> Hroznatova stopa educational trail.
This route combines nature with impressive Baroque architecture. The Teplá Monastery, with its famous library, is the cultural highlight of this tour.
Distance: 9 km | Difficulty: Medium.

7. The panoramic trail above Karlovy Vary

Route: Karlovy Vary Hirschsprung (Jelení skok) -> Diana Observation Tower -> Karlovy Vary.
Although on the edge of the Kaiserwald forest, it’s indispensable. You hike above the rooftops of the spa town and enjoy the expansive view all the way to the Ore Mountains.
Distance: 6 km | Difficulty: Medium (steep ascent).