Adršpach – Getting Lost in the Rocks Has Never Been This Fun
Adršpach Rock Town is one of those places that feel unreal until you find yourself standing between its monumental sandstone formations. It’s located just across the Polish border, yet many people still haven’t visited it. Meanwhile, it’s a true paradise for nature lovers, light adrenaline seekers, and those who enjoy walking through extraordinary landscapes. In this post, I’ll show you not only why it’s worth coming here, but also how to prepare for your visit so you don’t get stuck in a crowd or turned away at a closed gate.
Table of contents:
- What is Adršpach and why is it worth visiting?
- How to get to Adršpach and where to park
- Ticket prices and opening hours in Adršpach
- Tourist map – which way to go so you don’t get lost
- Boat ride in Adršpach – is it worth it and how does it work?
- Where to eat and stay in Adršpach – tried and tested places
- In the end – is Adršpach really that impressive?
- FAQ – practical summary before your trip
What is Adršpach and why is it worth visiting?
Adršpach is one of the most extraordinary places in the Czech Republic – and it’s located just a few kilometers from the Polish border. Towering sandstone formations rise up to nearly 100 meters, creating a landscape that looks like a fantasy film set. No surprise then, that parts of The Chronicles of Narnia were filmed right here.
The trail through Adršpach is very well marked. What’s more, at the entrance you’ll receive a brochure with a map and descriptions of the main rock formations – also available in Polish. Along the way, you’ll come across narrow passages, a waterfall, a viewpoint, an emerald lake, and even a boat ride through a sandstone canyon.
Adršpach is a place with history. The rocks were formed around 89 million years ago from sandstone, and their shapes are the result of water, frost, and wind slowly shaping them over time. The first tourists arrived here in the 18th century. After a massive fire in 1824, which destroyed almost all vegetation, the rock town was revealed in all its glory. In earlier times, locals used it as a natural shelter.
I visited Adršpach in mid-March. The weather was still quite chilly, so a down jacket was perfect for walking between the towering rock walls. I arrived at 9 a.m., and the place was almost empty. Maybe because it was still off-season, or maybe just because it was the middle of the week.
I had been here before, as a child on a school trip, but I remembered it very differently. The moment I saw the emerald lake, I fell in love with it all over again. The rock formations seemed even taller than I remembered. There was silence, birdsong, and an incredible sense of calm. It was exactly what I needed.
During the high season, the number of visitors allowed into Adršpach is limited. That’s why it’s a good idea to buy your ticket online in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit on a weekend or during the summer holidays.
How to get to Adršpach and where to park
There are several ways to reach Adršpach. The most common options include traveling by car, train, or regional bus. The area is well connected not only from Poland but also from major Czech cities. Public transport is reliable and easy to plan. Still, if you’re traveling off-season, driving remains the most flexible and convenient choice.
I. Train connections
If you’re coming from Poland, seasonal trains run directly to Adršpach station from cities like Wałbrzych, Wrocław, and Jelenia Góra. The station is located just next to the main entrance. Some routes may require a transfer in Meziměstí or Teplice nad Metují.
From Prague, you can take a train from Praha hl.n. with a change in Starkoč, Trutnov, or Teplice nad Metují. The journey takes about 3.5 to 5 hours depending on your connection. Regional trains also serve Adršpach from Hradec Králové, Náchod, and other Czech towns.
II. Bus options
From the Polish side, you can take a bus from Kudowa-Zdrój to Náchod, and from there continue to Adršpach by train or local bus.
From the Czech side, buses are available from cities like Hradec Králové or Trutnov, often with a transfer. The bus stop in Adršpach is located about 250 meters from the park entrance.
III. By car and border crossings
Adršpach is easily accessible by car, whether you’re coming from Poland or elsewhere in the Czech Republic.
If you’re traveling from Poland, the town is just 15 minutes from the border at Mieroszów. It lies 20 km from Wałbrzych, 65 km from Jelenia Góra, 115 km from Wrocław, and 275 km from Poznań.
In this case, a Czech motorway vignette is not required, since the route avoids toll highways.
If you’re coming from other parts of the Czech Republic, such as Prague, you can reach Adršpach by road in about 2.5 to 3 hours. Most routes from Prague lead through Hradec Králové and Trutnov.
A motorway vignette may be required on Czech expressways like the D11 or D10, depending on the route you choose.
There are two main border crossings from Poland:
- Zdoňov – a very narrow, unmarked road (official width limit: 2.2 m). Not recommended for wide vehicles or drivers unfamiliar with local roads.
- DK35 via Meziměstí – about 15 minutes longer, but much safer, better marked, and stress-free. Recommended for most visitors.
Parking at Adršpach
There are two main parking areas located right next to the entrance to Adršpach:
Both parking lots require online reservations during the high season. That’s why it’s best to purchase your parking ticket together with your entrance ticket. The system will recognize your license plate number and handle everything automatically.
The parking fee at Adršpach ranges from 80 CZK to 250 CZK, depending on the season and whether you book online or pay on-site. Visitors with a valid disability parking permit do not need to make a reservation and can park for free. After 9:00 PM, an extra fee of 100 CZK is charged for each additional hour.
Ticket prices and opening hours in Adršpach
Note: Ticket prices and opening hours are subject to change. Always check the official Adršpach website for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit.
The information in the table is accurate as of June 25, 2025.
| Category | TOP season 1.07–31.088:00–20:00 | Main season 1.03–30.06, 1.09–30.118:00–18:00 | Off-season 1.12–28.028:00–16:00 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard ticket (online/on-site) | 200 / 250 CZK | 180 / 230 CZK | 120 / 170 CZK |
| Child (online/on-site) | 140 / 190 CZK | 120 / 170 CZK | 90 / 140 CZK |
| Discounted (online/on-site) | 160 / 210 CZK | 140 / 190 CZK | 100 / 150 CZK |
| Family (online/on-site) | 550 / 700 CZK | 490 / 640 CZK | 340 / 490 CZK |
| Dog (always) | 50 CZK | 50 CZK | 50 CZK |
Tourist map – which way to go so you don’t get lost
There are two ways to explore Adršpach. You can either visit just the Adršpach area or combine it with a trip to the nearby Teplice Rocks. Both options are worth considering, but each offers a slightly different experience.
Between Adršpach and Teplice Rocks lies the scenic Vlčí Gorge (Wolf Gorge). During the summer season, this trail is officially open to tourists. In winter, the route remains accessible, but it’s used at your own risk. It is not patrolled or maintained during that time.
Below, you’ll find two trail maps. These are my suggested routes – tested and confirmed during my visit.
Adršpach map – trail markings and local signage
At the entrance to Adršpach, you’ll receive a brochure with a map and short descriptions. The information is also available in Polish, which makes navigation much easier. The trail is clearly marked. Directional signs along the route are easy to spot and lead through all the major landmarks.
The green loop is the classic tourist route. It takes you past the most famous rock formations and brings you back to the starting point. The full walk takes around two hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
From Adršpach to Teplice Rocks – how to walk between towns
Instead of returning the same way, you can continue the trail all the way to Teplice Rocks. Adršpach connects to the second rock town via Vlčí Gorge (Wolf Gorge), which leads you through a scenic passageway into a new area of sandstone formations.
The gorge is approximately 3.5 km long and is officially open to tourists during the summer season. In the off-season—especially in winter—the trail remains accessible but is used entirely at your own risk. It is not maintained, and conditions can be slippery and dangerous.
After walking through Teplice Rocks, the route ends in the town of Teplice nad Metují, where you can take a train back or plan your hike in the opposite direction. Importantly, the trail can be walked in both directions, so it’s up to you where you start and how you want to end your day.
Note: Temporary trail closure in Teplice Rocks.
Certain parts of the trail in Teplice Rocks may be temporarily closed due to peregrine falcon nesting—a rare and protected species. Before setting off, always check current updates on the official nature reserve website.
Boat ride in Adršpach – is it worth it and how does it work?
I visited Adršpach in mid-March. The weather was still cold, and in some spots, there was still snow on the ground. I didn’t expect the boat ride to be operating already. It was the middle of the week, and the place was nearly empty. To start the boat ride, you need at least thirty people—and, of course, a full boat had just left five minutes before I arrived. Nothing new. I’ve learned to embrace my luck a long time ago.
Still, the weather was nice enough, so I decided to wait. I figured that an extra thirty or forty minutes wouldn’t make much of a difference. After catching my breath from climbing the narrow stairs, I sat down in the boat, turned my face to the March sun, and calmly enjoyed my second breakfast while waiting for the next group to show up.
Not long after, a school group from Poland showed up. Within about ten minutes, they were ready for the boat ride. The boat trip in Adršpach takes place on an artificial lake, created in the former sandstone quarry. Czech guides led the whole experience with incredible energy, a great sense of humor, and a relaxed vibe that immediately spread to everyone on board. Joke after joke, the mood was so cheerful it was impossible not to smile. It was just pure fun.
I even got handed the captain’s hat and played the role of the captain for the ride—which only made it better. But this wasn’t just a simple boat trip. It was a piece of the area’s history, and definitely one worth experiencing.
Practical info:
Tickets for the boat ride in Adršpach can only be purchased on-site and in cash—Czech crowns only. The boat operates seasonally, usually from April or May until the end of October. Exact dates depend on weather conditions.
Where to eat and stay in Adršpach – tried and tested places
If you’re planning to visit Adršpach, it’s a good idea to book a place to stay and find somewhere to enjoy a proper meal after exploring. I’ve looked up several restaurants and accommodations in the area that are most frequently recommended by other travelers. I personally stayed a bit farther away—in the Broumov area—for logistical reasons, but if you’d rather stay closer to Adršpach Rock Town, here are some solid options worth considering.
Recommended restaurants:
Recommended accommodation:
In the end – is Adršpach really that impressive?
Adršpach truly impressed me. It’s well maintained, picturesque, and absolutely worth a visit. However, I wouldn’t recommend coming during the peak season. Instead of enjoying the experience, you’ll likely end up feeling frustrated—crowds, long lines at restaurants, higher prices, and the stress of finding out that tickets are already sold out. That’s why it’s better to plan your visit in spring or autumn. Even though the weather was a bit chilly, I had nearly the entire Adršpach to myself. I could take photos, record videos, and enjoy the peace and quiet at my own pace. The sound of birdsong and the wind rustling between the rocks were exactly what I needed at that moment.
Adršpach without crowds – watch it on YouTube
Walk with me through Adršpach – see the rock labyrinth, the gothic gate, the boat ride, and the never-ending stairs with your own eyes.
In the video, I’ll tell you the story of this place and share all the practical details – no crowds, no filters, solo as always.
FAQ – practical summary before your trip
Are there toilets along the trail in Adršpach?
In Adršpach, toilets are located near the entrance—both next to the parking lot and by the ticket booth. There are no toilets on the trail itself, so it’s best to use the facilities before starting your walk.
Can I bring a dog to Adršpach?
Yes, dogs are allowed in Adršpach, but they must be kept on a leash. During high season, dogs are also required to wear a muzzle. Don’t forget to bring waste bags—let’s respect the natural environment.
Can I take a bike into Adršpach?
No, bicycles are not allowed on the trail in Adršpach. Since it’s a protected nature reserve, bikes must be left outside. There are bike racks available near the entrance.
How long does it take to walk through Adršpach?
A full walk through Adršpach along the main trail takes about 2 hours. If you stop for photos or viewpoints, expect to spend around 3 hours. If you include the Teplice Rocks and the gorge, plan at least half a day.
Is Adršpach suitable for children or strollers?
Adršpach is child-friendly, but not stroller-friendly. The trail includes many stairs and narrow passages. A baby carrier works much better than a traditional stroller.
Is Adršpach accessible for wheelchairs?
Unfortunately, Adršpach is not wheelchair accessible. The trail features stairs, wooden footbridges, and uneven terrain. There is no adapted infrastructure at the moment.
Do I need to reserve the boat ride in Adršpach?
No, the boat ride in Adršpach cannot be reserved. It works on a first-come, first-served basis. In peak season, it’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Can I visit Adršpach without a guide?
Yes, you can explore Adršpach without a guide. The trail is very well marked, and there are informational signs at each major formation—including versions in Polish. You’ll also receive a printed map at the entrance.
Are there food options near the entrance to Adršpach?
Yes, near the entrance to Adršpach, you’ll find food stalls and drink stands. In season, souvenir kiosks are also open. There is no restaurant inside the reserve itself.
Can I pay by card in Adršpach? Is there an ATM nearby?
In Adršpach, there is an ATM close to the entrance, right next to the toilets. However, it may charge high fees—especially for foreign cards. Most places accept card payments, but it’s smart to carry some cash just in case.
Is Adršpach open all year round?
Yes, Adršpach is open all year round. However, some parts—like the trail through the gorge to Teplice Rocks—are only open seasonally. In winter, trails can be icy, so make sure to wear proper hiking boots.
If my article helped you plan your route and gather the necessary information, I would be grateful for your support in making my dreams come true by buying me a coffee!
