Charming Nature, Rock Cities, and Historic Landmarks. This is Maloskalsko

Thousands of Czech and international tourists choose to visit this region every year. This is mainly due to the high concentration of historical monuments and natural attractions. In a relatively small area, there is a dense network of hiking and cycling trails leading through the beautiful Czech countryside.

Maloskalsko

The Maloskalsko area is one of the newest additions to the Bohemian Paradise Protected Landscape Area (CHKO Český ráj). Since 2002, this unique region full of geological treasures and historical landmarks has been protected by law. With its distinct character, it has enriched the already diverse offerings of the CHKO and, thanks to its attractive cultural and sporting opportunities, ranks among the most visited places in the Bohemian Paradise every year.

Greenway Jizera

The Greenway Jizera is a long-distance cycling trail that follows the Jizera River. It connects picturesque areas and tourist-attractive locations from the river’s source in the Jizera Mountains to its confluence with the Elbe, with the total route measuring nearly 190 km. The trail is ideal for cycling, inline skating, and hiking, and each year new sections are renovated and modernized.

In the Maloskalsko region, the popular section runs from Dolánky through Rakousy and Malá Skála to Lišný, and now also the newly opened stretch to Železný Brod. As the name suggests, the trail follows the flow of the Jizera River and offers stunning views of the river valley. Greenway Jizera has thus become a popular destination for recreational athletes and families with children who want to enjoy nature and a relaxing ride — even on scooters. Set out on the Greenway yourself and book your scooters easily online here.

Dolánky near Turnov

Dolánky is a small village under the administration of Turnov. It lies on the edge of the Central Jizera Basin and serves as a sort of "water gateway" to this area. When people hear "Dolánky," they usually think of the Dlask Farmstead and the Jizera River, which, thanks to a weir here, offers great conditions for swimming and summer fun. Right on the meadow along the riverbank, by the weir, you’ll find Camp Dolánky – a cozy campsite in the Bohemian Paradise. The campsite offers sanitary facilities, a bistro with a wide selection of meals, and several fire pits for enjoyable evenings.

Turnov

The town of Turnov is best known for its gem-cutting tradition and jewelry production. It’s also often referred to as the "heart of the Bohemian Paradise," as it is surrounded by a landscape full of rock formations, forests hiding castles and chateaus, and many tourist attractions.

Folk Architecture

The region around the Jizera River has long attracted settlers, which is why the area is rich in examples of folk architecture. Timbered houses and cottages can be found in almost every village. Small chapels and bell towers have been preserved and still serve their original purpose. The majority of timbered buildings and cottages are now used as weekend homes for "cottage-goers," thanks to whom most buildings have retained their original character.

Castles and Chateaus

The Bohemian Paradise area is literally “laced” with castles, rock fortresses, chateaus, and grand residences of prominent noble families. Some have been preserved almost in their original form, while others have nearly vanished, with only subtle traces in the rock reminding us of their past existence.

Maloskalsko is undoubtedly known for the ruins of the castles Vranov, Frýdštejn, and Zbirohy (Zbiroh). These historic landmarks attract tourists with their atmosphere, scenic views, and mysterious remains of once-mighty fortifications.

Rock Cities

Maloskalsko is famous not only for its castles but also for its fascinating rock cities and formations, which hold both historical and natural significance. Among the best known is Drábovna, which was inhabited as early as the Stone Age.

Another unique site is the Besedice Rock City, which includes the famous formations Kalich and Chléviště. Kalich is a rock passage with a carved chalice and an inscription referring to the time of the Czech Brethren, while Chléviště forms a labyrinth of rock gorges and viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas of the Vranov Ridge and the Jizera River valley.