Top 10 Hidden Viewpoints in Karlovy Vary

The hills above the city are filled with historical gazebos and towers. Many were built by wealthy spa guests in the 19th century. These structures offer a unique perspective on the valley below. Most trails are well-marked but require a bit of climbing. Here are the top spots to find solitude and beauty.

• Best overall: Three Crosses
• Best for solitude: Petrohrad Lookout
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best free view: Mayer’s Gloriette

1. Name: Petrohrad Lookout Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers a quiet view of the Imperial Hotel and the valley. It is rarely crowded even in summer. Best for: Solitude and peaceful reflection. Where: Located on the hill above the Westend district. Time: 40 minutes round trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the city center through the forest trails. Tip: Visit at sunrise for the best light.
2. Name: Mayer’s Gloriette Type: architectural sight Why go: This wooden gazebo is a masterpiece of spa architecture. It overlooks the Teplá River from a steep cliff. Best for: Romantic photos and architecture lovers. Where: On the path toward the Diana Tower. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow trail from the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Wear shoes with good grip as the path is steep.
3. Name: Three Crosses (Tři křěže) Type: experience Why go: This is one of the most iconic yet often skipped spots. You can learn how to find the Three Crosses viewpoint easily. Best for: Wide panoramic views of the entire city. Where: On the eastern ridge above the city. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up from the Vřřidelní Colonnade. Tip: There is a small wooden shelter if it starts to rain.
4. Name: Goethe’s Lookout Type: sight Why go: This neo-Gothic tower looks like a fairy tale castle. It is the highest point in the immediate area. Check out this guide to hike to Goethe’s Lookout for details. Best for: Nature lovers and history buffs. Where: On the outskirts of the city forest. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Take bus number 8 or hike the long forest trail. Tip: The tower has a small cafe for snacks.
5. Name: Deer Jump (Jelení skok) Type: sight Why go: This is where the city’s legend began with a jumping deer. It is a classic spot but essential for first-timers. Learn the best time to visit Deer Jump lookout to avoid crowds. Best for: Iconic photos and local legends. Where: Near the Diana funicular middle station. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the funicular to the middle stop and walk 5 minutes. Tip: Look for the small metal chamois statue on the rock.
6. Name: Camera Obscura Pavilion Type: experience Why go: It is a unique wooden structure with a historical feel. It offers a framed view of the city like a painting. Best for: Artists and photographers. Where: Located on the hills near the Imperial Hotel. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the blue trail from the city center. Tip: Bring a sketchbook or a good camera lens.
7. Name: Findlater’s Temple Type: architectural sight Why go: A classicist temple dedicated to a Scottish Earl. It provides a beautiful view of the valley of the Teplá River. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: In the forest south of the city. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike along the river then head uphill near the Posthof. Tip: The area around the temple is very quiet and peaceful.
8. Name: Charles IV Lookout Type: sight Why go: A brick observation tower built in the 1870s. It looks like a medieval fortification. Best for: Seeing the Ore Mountains in the distance. Where: On the Hamerský Hill. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green trail from the city center. Tip: The stairs inside the tower are quite narrow.
9. Name: Peter the Great Lookout Type: viewpoint Why go: Commemorates the visit of the Russian Tsar. It offers a direct view down into the spa zone. Best for: Quick views near the center. Where: Just above the Deer Jump lookout. Time: 15 minutes from Deer Jump. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via the same paths as Deer Jump. Tip: Read the historical plaque to learn about the Tsar’s visit.
10. Name: Aberg Lookout (Doubská hora) Type: sight Why go: A stone tower that offers a 360-degree view. It is further away from the city noise. Best for: Hikers wanting a longer trek. Where: On Doubská Mountain. Time: 3 hours round trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the blue trail from the city outskirts. Tip: Check the weather as it can be windy at the top.

Planning Your Hike to These Secret Spots

Karlovy Vary has an excellent network of marked trails. You will see colored signs on trees and poles. These colors (red, blue, green, yellow) indicate different routes. You can find more details on hiking trails in Karlovy Vary spa woods to plan your day. The terrain is often hilly and can be slippery after rain. Always carry a map or use a digital navigation app.

Public transport can save you some uphill walking. The local buses are reliable and cover most city areas. You can check schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary official site. Many trails start near the famous colonnades. Others begin further out near the residential districts. Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction for the best experience.

Pack water and a light snack before you head out. There are few shops once you enter the deep forest. Most viewpoints have benches where you can rest. Respect the nature and stay on the marked paths. This helps protect the local flora and fauna. The air in the woods is incredibly fresh and healthy.

Best Times for Photography and Crowds

Timing is everything when visiting the hidden viewpoints in Karlovy Vary. Early morning is the best time for soft light. You will also avoid the majority of other tourists. Late afternoon provides a warm glow over the colorful city buildings. For more photography tips, visit the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website. They often share the best spots for seasonal photos.

Autumn is a spectacular time to visit the spa woods. The leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold. This creates a stunning contrast with the white colonnades. Winter can also be beautiful, especially with a light dusting of snow. However, be careful on the stairs of the observation towers. They can become very icy and dangerous in cold weather.

Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends. During the International Film Festival in July, the city is very busy. The forest trails offer a great escape from the festival crowds. Even during peak season, these hidden spots remain relatively calm. Always check the sunset time to ensure you get back safely. The woods get dark very quickly once the sun goes down.

Day Trips with Stunning Views Nearby

If you have more time, explore the surrounding region. There are several amazing day trips from Karlovy Vary to Loket that offer great views. Loket features a medieval castle perched on a granite rock. You can walk around the town walls for a panoramic vista. It is only a short train or bus ride away.

Another great option is visiting the nearby rock formations. The Visit Czechia portal recommends the Ohře River valley. This area is perfect for those who love nature and history. You can see dramatic cliffs and lush green forests. It is a favorite spot for local climbers and hikers alike.

The Ore Mountains are also within reach for a day trip. They offer higher altitudes and more rugged scenery. You can find many observation towers in the mountain towns. These provide views that stretch all the way into Germany. Public transport makes it easy to reach these destinations. Always check the latest train schedules before you depart.