Sumava National Park - Explore the Natural Beauty
Description: Šumava National Park, also known as the Bohemian Forest, is a vast and pristine protected area located in the Southwestern part of the Czech Republic, near the borders with Germany and Austria. It is the largest national park in the country, covering an area of approximately 690 square kilometers. Šumava is characterized by its dense forests, rolling hills, meadows, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and outdoor adventurers.
Visitor Fee: There is no general entrance fee to enter Šumava National Park, as it is a public protected area. However, some specific sites, attractions, or guided tours within the park may have separate fees. For example, certain visitor centers, guided hikes, or access to cultural and historical sites may require a small fee. It’s advisable to check for fees at individual attractions or services within the park.
Transportation: Šumava National Park is accessible by various means of transportation. If you are traveling from Prague, you can take a combination of trains and buses to reach the park. From cities like České Budějovice, you can also take a direct bus to certain points within the park. Once in Šumava, there are local buses and taxi services available to reach different areas and trailheads within the park.
Things to Do:
- Hiking: Šumava offers an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, allowing visitors to explore the beautiful landscapes, forests, and lakes.
- Cycling: The park also has cycling trails, making it a great destination for mountain biking enthusiasts.
- Wildlife Watching: Šumava is home to various wildlife species, including deer, wild boars, lynx, and golden eagles. Wildlife watching and birdwatching opportunities are abundant.
- Glacial Lakes: Discover the glacial lakes in the park, such as Lake Černé, Lake Laka, and Lake Prášilské.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here: People enjoy coming to Šumava National Park because of its unspoiled nature, stunning landscapes, and the feeling of tranquility and solitude it offers. The park provides an escape from urban life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness. Hiking through the dense forests, exploring the glacial lakes, and encountering the diverse wildlife create memorable experiences for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s remote and quiet atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
How Old is this Place: Šumava National Park is a relatively young protected area. It was officially established in 1991 as the Czech Republic’s third national park. However, the region’s natural beauty and significance have been appreciated for centuries.
Additional Nearby Attractions:
- Bohemian Forest Railway: Take a nostalgic ride on the historic Bohemian Forest Railway, which runs through scenic landscapes and connects several picturesque towns in the area.
- Zlatá Koruna Monastery: Visit the Zlatá Koruna Monastery, a historic Cistercian abbey located near the park, known for its Gothic architecture and beautiful setting.
List of Activities:
- Hike along the various trails and explore the natural beauty of Šumava National Park.
- Go cycling on the designated mountain biking trails.
- Engage in wildlife watching and birdwatching.
- Visit the glacial lakes and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Photograph the breathtaking landscapes and nature.
- Take a scenic ride on the Bohemian Forest Railway.
- Discover the cultural and historical sites near the park, such as Zlatá Koruna Monastery.
- Participate in guided hikes and nature tours to learn more about the park’s ecosystems and wildlife.
- Enjoy camping or picnicking in designated areas within the park.
- Experience the sense of tranquility and harmony with nature in Šumava National Park.