Rock Towns in the Malá Skála Region

Besedice Rocks – Kalich and Chléviště Rock Labyrinth

While the Hruboskalsko Rock Town and Prachov Rocks near Jičín are the most visited rock formations in Bohemian Paradise, the Malá Skála region also offers several smaller, yet equally captivating rock towns.

Southeast of Malá Skála, you’ll find the Besedice Rocks, consisting of two main formations – Kalich and Chléviště. These are popular hiking destinations thanks to scenic viewpoints overlooking the Malá Skála valley. A highlight is the Hořákova Viewpoint, offering a stunning vista stretching all the way to Ještěd mountain.

From Malá Skála, follow the red hiking trail toward Besedice. At the intersection "Pánovo pole", continue along the yellow trail through the rock labyrinth to the Kalich Chapel marker. Then take the blue trail to the junction "U tůňky", from where you can return to Malá Skála via the green trail, or extend your hike to the ruins of Zbiroh Castle.

The various intersecting trails allow you to explore the area thoroughly. Children especially enjoy the labyrinth as a fun reward after the climb up Sokol Hill.

Return Options:

1. Via Besedice and Suché Skály (green and blue trail)

2. Via the Czech Brethren Viewpoint (blue and green trail)

3. Via Zbirohy to Dolánky, then scooter back along the Greenway Jizera (rentals available at Camp Dolánky)

Suché Skály (Dry Rocks)

This unique sandstone ridge, resembling a dragon’s back, is one of Malá Skála’s most iconic landmarks. It is a rare geomorphological phenomenon, where a horizontal sandstone plate was lifted and rotated into a vertical position. Now protected as a national natural monument, Suché Skály are a top destination for rock climbers. The site features around 20 towers, including the prominent Main Tower and Falcon Tower, suitable for both experienced and beginner climbers.

From the local info center, follow the red trail toward Malá Skála's center to the junction "Malá Skála – kaplička", then continue on the blue trail to the rocks.

Tip: Continue through Suché Skály to Besedice and add the Dr. Edvard Beneš Trail to your hike. Don’t miss the "Na Suché skály" Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views.

Vranov Ridge and Pantheon

A defining feature of the Malá Skála region is the Vranov Ridge, one of its most visited attractions. Formed in the same process as Suché Skály, it was later split by erosion from the Jizera River. At its eastern end stands the Vranov Castle ruins, originally from the 15th century, with the striking neo-Gothic Pantheon built in 1826.

Follow the red trail to reach the ridge. Don’t miss Zahrádka Viewpoint, offering views of the Jizera River and the Malá Skála valley. Continue west along the trail to the ruins of Frýdštejn Castle, known from the Czech fairytale "Princess Jasněnka and the Flying Shoemaker". The castle likely dates back to the late 14th century.

Drábovna Rock Town

Near Malá Skála and the village of Záborčí lies the Drábovna rock formation with the remains of an ancient fort. This scenic site attracts nature lovers and history buffs alike. Archeological evidence suggests that people settled here as early as the Neolithic period, as shown by remains of weapons, pottery, and tools.

The rocky plateau is divided by deep gorges, such as Vondrová Ravine, Front and Rear Church, and Foukané díry ("Blown Holes"). Legend warns that careless visitors might fall into leaf-covered fissures.

Klokočské Rocks

South of Malá Skála lies the Klokočské Rocks Nature Reserve, home to Postojná Cave (nicknamed America) – the largest pseudokarst cave in Bohemian Paradise, and an important archaeological site with artifacts from the Lusatian culture (12th–9th century BC).

In the southeastern part of the area stands the ruin of Rotštejn Castle, founded in the mid-13th century. Remains include parts of the palace, corridors, a well, and a black kitchen. In good weather, the upper level is open to visitors, offering views of Černá Studnice, Kopanina Hill, Hrubá Skála Chateau, nearby rock towns, and Valdštejn Castle.

You can reach the Klokočské Rocks by foot via the blue trail (through Suché Skály) or by traveling to Turnov-Záholice and taking the red trail. Along this route, make a detour to "Zdenčina skála" Viewpoint.

Měsíční Údolí (Moon Valley)

This underrated gem lies at the foot of Kozákov Hill. It’s a geologically fascinating area, where volcanic activity pushed sandstone layers to the surface, cracking them into dramatic V-shaped cliffs.

In the valley, you’ll find Babí and Kudrnáčova Pec caves, and higher up the slope, the Drábovna formation with a man-made rock chamber. You can access Moon Valley from Malá Skála via the blue trail, branching off toward Kozákov in Klokočí, or by parking in the village of Vesec and walking the red trail. Note: No official trail leads directly to the valley, only field and forest paths from Podhájí or a red trail detour above the valley.