The best walks and hikes in Southwest
4.5
(9233)
46,809
hikers
1,675
hikes
Hiking trails in Southwest are characterized by diverse landscapes, including dense forests, scenic lakes, and rolling hills. The region, located in a corner of the Czech Republic, features numerous protected areas and river valleys. Hikers can explore trails that traverse borders, lead to historic castles, and offer views from observation towers. The terrain generally includes moderate elevation changes, making it accessible for various hiking abilities.
Best hiking trails in Southwest
- The most popular hiking route is Hiking across borders in Ferdinandsthal, a 7.3 miles (11.8 km) trail that takes 3 hours 23 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers a journey through varied landscapes near the border.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Wooden Boardwalk at Lipno Lake – Wooden Bridge over Olšina Pond loop from Na Mokřinách, a moderate 5.1 miles (8.2 km) path. This trail features a wooden boardwalk and bridges over water bodies, offering tranquil lakeside scenery.
- Local hikers also love the Čertovo Jezero (Devil's Lake) – Špičák Observation Tower loop from Špičák, a 7.3 miles (11.7 km) trail leading through forested areas to a lake and an observation tower, often completed in about 3 hours 35 minutes.
- Hiking in Southwest is defined by forested hills, picturesque lakes, and historic sites. The network offers options for easy walks, moderate day hikes, and more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in Southwest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 7,600 reviews. More than 40,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Southwest's varied terrain.
Last updated: September 30, 2026
4.6
(83)
250
hikers
11.8km
03:24
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(304)
1,322
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(166)
899
hikers
13.7km
04:23
560m
560m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(121)
626
hikers
5.84km
01:37
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(116)
591
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(142)
417
hikers
16.3km
04:39
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(54)
386
hikers
15.6km
05:17
590m
590m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(69)
409
hikers
4.56km
01:18
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(44)
308
hikers
15.0km
04:14
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(69)
259
hikers
17.0km
04:53
390m
390m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Southwest
Hiking around Jihočeský kraj
Hiking around Plzeňský kraj
Castles & Palaces Trail – Discover the mystical Mühlviertel in Austria
Nordwaldkamm trail – Hiking between the Czech Republic and Austria
Nurtschweg – Hiking along the German-Czech border
Eisenwurzen Trail – Hiking through Austria from north to south
Experience history on the Pferdeeisenbahn hiking trail
Varied day Tours on the Großer Arber
Discover the Green Belt in the Bavarian Forest with BUND
Discover the wild nature in the Bavarian Forest National Park on leisurely hikes
Other adventures in Southwest
Tips from the Community
An approx. 2 km long, easy-to-walk circular trail leads around the impressive Großer Arbersee. Parking unfortunately costs a whole 4 Euros! Food and drink are also available on site.
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The floating islands on Großer Arbersee and Kleiner Arbersee in the Bavarian Forest are unique, ice-age natural phenomena made of so-called floating fens, which have no firm connection to the lakebed. They were formed in the 19th century when both cirque lakes were artificially dammed for timber rafting. As a result, the densely rooted peat mats detached from the ground and have since floated on the water's surface.
7
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The circular route around the Großer Arbersee in the Bavarian Forest is a very easy walk. The route leads right through an ice-age nature reserve past dense coniferous forests, an impressive cliff face, and the famous floating islands.
7
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The Dicke Tanne (also called Westhütter Tanne) is the strongest tree in the Bavarian Forest, with a trunk diameter of two meters and a height of more than fifty meters.
8
0
At an altitude of about 850 meters above sea level, there is this wooden hiking hut, open on one side, with a bench as shelter in bad weather. As the hut is located in the national park, overnight stays are strictly forbidden.
8
0
Centuries ago, an important trade route led across the border between Bavaria and Bohemia. During the Cold War, this came to an end: The Iron Curtain sealed the border. Barbed wire, barriers, and border guards separated the two countries. Today, the border is open again, and the Ferdinandsthal crossing connects the Bavarian Forest with the Šumava National Park. You can easily cross the border here on foot, by bike, or on skis.
9
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This concrete bunker is a relic from the Cold War era. The KŽ-1 type bunker was built in 1953 and was part of the defense stronghold of the Debrník border company. Around the border company, there were a total of nine such fortification objects – including machine gun positions, shelters, and an observation post. Today, some of the bunkers are accessible along the educational trail “Utajená obrana železné opony” (Hidden Defense of the Iron Curtain).
11
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During the Cold War, this was the accommodation of the Czechoslovak border guard. From the Debrník border guard barracks, the border with West Germany was monitored and the "Iron Curtain" secured. Today, in addition to the barracks, numerous relics remind us of this era. Currently, the barracks are empty.
14
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in the Southwest region?
The Southwest region offers a vast network of over 1,600 hiking trails. These routes cater to various preferences, including easy walks, moderate day hikes, and more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Southwest?
Hiking in Southwest will take you through diverse landscapes, including dense forests, scenic lakes, and rolling hills. The region is also characterized by numerous protected areas and river valleys, offering varied natural beauty.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, the Southwest region has over 600 easy hiking routes. An excellent option for a leisurely walk is the Český Krumlov Castle – View of Český Krumlov's Old Town loop from Latrán, which is 6.2 km long and takes about 1 hour 40 minutes, offering views of historic sites.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Southwest?
The trails in Southwest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 7,600 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's varied terrain, picturesque lakes, and historic sites, as well as the well-maintained paths that traverse borders and lead to observation towers.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Southwest?
Yes, many routes in Southwest are circular. For example, the Wooden Boardwalk at Lipno Lake – Wooden Bridge over Olšina Pond loop from Na Mokřinách is a moderate 8.2 km loop featuring tranquil lakeside scenery. Another popular circular option is the Čertovo Jezero (Devil's Lake) – Špičák Observation Tower loop from Špičák, which leads through forested areas to a lake and an observation tower.
Can I find trails that lead to historical sites or castles?
Absolutely. The Southwest region is rich in history. You can explore routes like the Český Krumlov Castle – View of Český Krumlov's Old Town loop from Latrán, which offers views of the historic Český Krumlov's Old Town. Many trails also lead to other historic sites and monuments.
Are there any trails with observation towers for panoramic views?
Yes, several trails in Southwest lead to observation towers. A notable example is the Čertovo Jezero (Devil's Lake) – Špičák Observation Tower loop from Špičák, which includes a visit to the Špičák Observation Tower, offering expansive views of the surrounding forested areas and lake.
What natural attractions can I discover along the hiking trails?
The Southwest region boasts numerous natural attractions. You can find highlights such as the Great Osser summit, the unique Dreisessel Rock, and various ridgeways. The region is also home to beautiful lakes like Černé Jezero (Black Lake) and Plešné jezero.
Are there any caves or unique geological features to explore?
Yes, the Southwest region has interesting underground features. You can explore sites like the Old Uranium Mine Tunnel (CHKO Český les) or the Poustevna Hermit's Cave. These offer a glimpse into the region's geological and historical past.
Can I find trails that cross borders into neighboring countries?
Yes, the Southwest region, located in a corner of the Czech Republic, features trails that traverse borders. The Hiking across borders in Ferdinandsthal route is a prime example, offering a journey through varied landscapes near the border.
What is the longest moderate hike available in Southwest?
One of the longer moderate hikes is the Großer Regen Riverside Trail – Great Arber Lake loop from Bahnhof Bayerisch Eisenstein / Železná Ruda - Alžbětín, covering approximately 16.4 km. This route offers a scenic experience along the riverside and around Great Arber Lake.
Most popular routes in Southwest
Most popular attractions in Southwest
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