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Mysterious lakes, views and great walks. That's what our itinerary is all about, as we explore the surroundings of Železná Ruda together.
Unlock for free Learn moreThere are several options for weekend adventures in the Czech Republic, especially in the countryside. This two-day itinerary will take us together to Šumava, specifically the part around Železná Ruda. This is a very popular area near the German border, both in summer and winter. In summer, hiking or cycling dominates, and in winter, skiing.
During the two days we will see the top of Pancíř, walk through probably the most photogenic door in the Czech Republic, visit lakes with dark atmosphere and not forgetting the lookout tower and other activities. The itinerary contains not only tips on places to visit, but also tips on accommodation, parking and good restaurants in Železná Ruda and its surroundings.
The most suitable accommodation is either directly in Železná Ruda or nearby. Here are two very good options.
Železná Ruda • $
<p>Moderní a prostorné apartmány přímo v centru Železné Rudy, nabízející kvalitu za dobrou cenu.</p>
Železná Ruda • $
<p>Krásné ubytování přímo v centru Železné Rudy, nabízející moderní pokoje, vnitřní bazén či možnost snídaně.</p>
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On the first day, we will set out together to discover the beautiful and mysterious Šumava lakes. We are talking about the Black and Devil's Lakes.
The hike is slightly over 11 kilometres long with an elevation gain of less than 300 metres. A good starting point is the outskirts of the village of Špičák, where it is also possible to park in the paid parking lot.
Železná Ruda
Official parking
Yes
Allowed
Paid parking on the edge of Špičák, which serves as a great starting point for trips to the surrounding lakes and peaks. Parking costs 30 CZK per hour. A train also runs to Devil’s Lake from here and refreshments are available.
Our first stop will be Black Lake. The way to the lake is not difficult and you just have to follow the signs and follow the nature trail.
3.6 km (50 mins)
Black Lake (Černé jezero in Czech) is the largest and deepest glacial lake in Šumava. It is located at an altitude of 1,008 metres and is surrounded by dense forests and steep slopes of Jezerná hora. The lake got its name because of the dark colour of the water, which is caused by the reflection of the surrounding forests and the deep sediment at the bottom. Black Lake is also an important ecological area where rare species of plants and animals can be found. Its uniqueness makes it part of a protected nature reserve.
There is also a hydroelectric power plant nearby that uses the lake as part of its system. This contrast of natural beauty and human intervention makes the Black Lake an interesting destination not only for nature lovers. During our visit, the lake was completely shrouded in darkness, which gave its name and the general environment in the forests an incredibly dark but beautiful atmosphere. The easiest way to get to the Black Lake is from Špičáký sedlo, where there is also a paid parking lot. From the car park it is about 3.5 kilometres to the lake along the Špičák – Černé jezero nature trail.
At the Black Lake we recommend to make the first longer stop. It is a really beautiful place with a special atmosphere. Especially in fog or worse weather, which we (unfortunately) had during our visit, it looks almost mysterious. In our case, we couldn’t even see the other side of the lake through the fog.
From Černý jezero we will take the red trail, where we will climb steeply on a rocky path, which often turns into a small stream in the rain. We recommend sturdy and, if possible, more durable footwear for this section as well.
After climbing the hill, a decision awaits us at a fork in the road where to go next. If you take this route between 16 September and 14 June, the next place will most likely be unavailable. We are talking about the Špičák lookout tower, which is not far from the asphalt road from the crossroads Pod Malým Špičák, but the road is closed during this period.
TIP: Consider visiting the lookout tower also with regard to the weather. If you have fog like we did, you probably won’t even see the tower, let alone any views.
2.1 km (41 mins)
The 26-metre high lookout tower at the top of Špičák has been there since 2014 and offers beautiful views of the surroundings. 135 steps lead to the top. The lookout tower is only open from May to the end of October. You can find out more about the current opening hours on its official website.
Even if you don’t make it to Rozhledna Špičák, either because of the weather or the closed road, don’t despair – our route along the mysterious lakes is not over yet. We will continue along the red trail through the Czech Republic, which will take us through a beautiful forest to the Devil’s Lake.
9.9 km (2 hours 21 mins)
Čertovo jezero, in English Devil’s Lake, is located in Šumava at an altitude of 1,030 metres. Compared to the nearby Black Lake, it is slightly smaller, but no less mysterious. The lake is of glacial origin and its dark surface is surrounded by the steep slopes of Jezerní hora and dense spruce forests. A popular hiking trail leads directly to the lake, primarily from Černé jezero or Špičák. According to legend, the Devil’s Lake got its name because of the dark legends of devils that surround it. And we have to say that its surroundings are really mysterious.
The ecosystem around the lake is unique and protected, which makes it an important place for the biodiversity of Šumava. Like Černé jezero, Čertovo jezero is part of the region’s aquatic ecosystem and together they form one of the most beautiful natural areas in the Czech Republic. A trip to Čertovo jezero is a great choice for lovers of the Šumava wilderness who are looking for a connection with nature and peace from the busy world – especially during the off-peak season or on weekends, you will really enjoy the aforementioned peace and untouched nature.
Similarly to Lake Černý, we recommend not only relaxation at Čertov, but especially a moment of peace and quiet to enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of this mysterious place.
From the lake, there are several paths that will take you back to Špičák, our starting point. The first option is the steeper route along the Jezerní circuit, however, we recommend that you take a slightly longer route through the Sklářská nature trail, which is more gradual.
Near the foot of the mountain Špičák, basically at the railway station, we can find a good restaurant that cooks and serves mostly Czech food at good prices.
4.4 km (1 hour 1 min)
Železná Ruda • $
Good Czech cuisine at still affordable prices? This is the station restaurant in Špičák.
After the goulash or fried cheese, we only have to return to the parking lot or straight to our accommodation. In the area of Špičák we can recommend two options – both in nearby Železná Ruda.
Železná Ruda • $
Modern and spacious apartments right in the centre of Železná Ruda, offering quality at a good price.
Železná Ruda • $
Beautiful accommodation right in the centre of Železná Ruda, offering modern rooms, indoor swimming pool or breakfast.
Detailed plan for each day with a map
Tips for accommodation, places to eat and parking
Good to know and what to pack
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Marty the VanThis itinerary will give you tips for beautiful holiday spots and safe camping, along with tips for walks and treks, exploring towns and great food, all from the comfort of your own home on four wheels.
4 days
Campervan
Medium pace
Spring - autumn
Mysterious lakes and views around Železná Ruda (Czechia) je jedním z itinerářů, které Retkee nabízí. Každý itinerář nabízí přehledný popis jednotlivých dní, včetně interaktivní mapy či praktických informací. Kromě itinerářů Retkee nabízí i blog , podrobné průvodce destinacemi , například Island , Norsko či Madeira .
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