Labské pískovce: Elbe Sandstone Mountains

Labské pískovce hide several treasures thanks to their rocks and the Elbe river. Furthermore, they are something like a crossing point to Bohemian Switzerland and Central Bohemian Uplands, so you can enjoy breathtaking views almost everywhere you go.

Labské pískovce

Elbe Sandstone Mountains is a protected landscape area since 1972, and you can find here several treasures worthwhile to visit. I am going to show you my favorite one – the highest peak Děčínský sněžník, magical Tisa Walls, modern lookout tower called Růženka, look out over the Elbe river called Belvedere and the city of Děčín with its castle and lookouts over the Elbe river. Next to these treasures, you can find a national park the Czech Switzerland with its Pravčická Gate and fantastic lookouts around Jetřichovice.

Děčínský Sněžník

The Děčínský Sněžník is the highest mountain of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains with 723 m. It is rather a plateau than a summit. Anyway, at the edge of this plateau, you can find a lookout tower with a magnificent view over the surrounding Saxon-Bohemian Switzerland and the Central Bohemian Mountains. Initially, the tower was built in 1864 for geodesists, but it became popular with people, so it became a popular tourist destination. The tower itself is 33 meters high, so you can have even better view also with a description of mountains around you.

Tiské Stěny

Hiking inside the sandstone labyrinth of Tiské Stěny brings you to the magic land of the Chronicles of Narnia. However, discovering Tiské Stěny is not so challenging, like in the movie. It’s a very easy hiking trip suitable for almost everybody.

Tisa Walls or Tiské stěny are divided into two hiking trails – Big Walls and Small Walls. You can easily visit both in about 2 hours. It depends on you, how much time do you have, and how much do you want to enjoy the landscape. Both trails are well marked and take you through the main highlights, rock formation, and narrow passages.

Růženka

Lookout tower Růženka is only 6,5 meters high, but it offers a splendid view over the countryside. Even in the past, it used to be a strategic hill where armies guarded the territory. Later on, people build there a windmill and restaurant that failed into disrepair. You can even find these ruins here. I like design that looks like an alien. Definitely one of the loveliest lookout towers in our country.

Belvedere

Belvedere is one of the most beautiful lookouts over the Elbe river. It has its primacy in a different category; it is the oldest one. Its history dates back to 1711 when the local prince ordered to build the viewing terrace where the theatre was performed. Today, you have a view of the Elbe river and its valley from 130 meters high.

Děčín

Děčín is like an entry gate to the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. You can admire the beautiful castle, medieval bridge, and numerous lookouts from the rock over the Elbe river. Just opposite the castle is a giant rock with an astonishing view over the city and the castle. You can find other viewpoints alongside the river. I would recommend you Císařský výhled and Labská stráž that are close to each other and are easily accessible from the center. Děčín has definitely something to offer!