Planning Your Walks in Karlovy Vary

The spa woods feature over 100 kilometers of paths. Most trails are paved or well-packed gravel, making them accessible. You do not need professional gear for these routes. Comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket are usually enough for most visitors.

At a Glance:

• Day 1: Diana Lookout Tower, Deer Leap, and the Butterfly House.
• Day 2: Three Crosses, Goethe’s Lookout, and the Imperial Woods.
• Best Base: Stay near the Grandhotel Pupp for easy access to trailheads.

Before you start, it is helpful to review a map of hiking trails in Karlovy Vary woods. The trails are color-coded with specific markers on trees and poles. This system makes it very difficult to get lost even if you are new to hiking.

Day 1: The Diana Lookout Circular Route

This loop is the most famous walk in the area. It offers a mix of history, nature, and panoramic views. It starts in the heart of the spa zone near the funicular station.

Day 1:

Morning (09:00 – 12:00): Take the funicular from the station next to Grandhotel Pupp. It saves you a steep climb to the Diana Lookout Tower. Entry to the tower is free and offers a 360-degree view. Visit the nearby Butterfly House for a colorful indoor experience.

Afternoon (13:00 – 16:00): Follow the blue-marked trail toward the Deer Leap (Jelení skok) statue. This is an easy downhill walk through dense beech trees. Stop at the viewpoint to see the famous bronze chamois statue. Continue down the winding paths until you reach the Market Colonnade.

Evening (17:00 – 19:00): Walk back through the town center. Try the local herbal liqueur, Becherovka, at a terrace bar. For more unique spots, check out an alternative guide to Karlovy Vary for dinner recommendations. Logistics Tip: The funicular runs every 15 minutes during the peak season.

Day 2: Three Crosses and Forest Vistas

The second day focuses on the eastern side of the Tepla River. This area is often quieter than the Diana side. It features some of the best hidden viewpoints in Karlovy Vary.

Day 2:

Morning (09:30 – 12:30): Start at the Richmond Park hotel. Follow the yellow trail up toward the Three Crosses (Tři kříže). The climb is steady but manageable on wide paths. The crosses sit on a rocky outcrop with a great view of the Thermal Hotel.

Afternoon (13:30 – 16:30): From the crosses, follow the green trail toward Goethe’s Lookout. This path stays relatively flat as it winds through the hiking trails in Karlovy Vary spa woods. You will pass several small wooden gazebos where you can rest. Loop back down toward the town via the Imperial Hotel paths.

Evening (17:30 – 20:00): Finish your walk at the Vridlo (Hot Spring) building. Relax your legs in the warm air of the spring hall. Logistics Tip: Carry a reusable bottle to fill with mineral water at the public taps. Most water is free and safe to drink but has a strong taste.

Practical Tips for Easy Circular Walks

Safety and comfort are key when exploring these woods. Even though the paths are near the center, the weather can change. Always check the local forecast on the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website. This helps you avoid slippery conditions during sudden rain.

The trail marking system uses three horizontal stripes. The middle stripe indicates the trail color (red, blue, green, or yellow). The outer stripes are white. Follow these signs at every junction to stay on your chosen circular route. If you see a square with a diagonal line, the trail is ending.

Optional Swaps: If it rains, visit the Jan Becher Museum instead of the Three Crosses. For families with kids, the St. Linhart forest center offers a rope park. You can reach St. Linhart by taking a local bus from the public transport authority stops. Most buses are frequent and accept contactless card payments.