Šumava National Park Travel Guide: Explore the Wild Heart of the Czech Republic

Introduction to Sumava National Park

Tucked along the Czech-German border, Šumava National Park is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor adventurers. Covering more than 680 square kilometers, it’s the largest national park in the Czech Republic and part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve that spans into neighboring Bavaria.
 

Known for its dense forests, glacial lakes, peat bogs, and pristine rivers, Šumava is often called the “Green Roof of Europe.” Whether you’re looking to explore scenic trails, bike through charming villages, or simply escape into serene wilderness, Šumava offers a uniquely unspoiled experience.


📍 Where Is Šumava National Park?

Country: Czech Republic

Region: South Bohemia and Plzeň

Main Access Towns: Železná Ruda, Kvilda, Modrava, Srní, and Prášily

Closest Cities: Plzeň (2 hours), Prague (3 hours), České Budějovice (2.5 hours)


🌿 What Makes Šumava Special?

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1990

Home to rare species: lynx, capercaillie, otters, black storks, and more

Contains the Bohemian Forest, one of Central Europe’s most extensive forest areas

Cross-border hiking and biking trails connect to Germany’s Bavarian Forest

One of the darkest night skies in Europe—ideal for stargazing

Rich in folk culture, wooden cottages, and historical border villages


🥾 Best Things to Do in Šumava National Park

🔹 1. Hike to the Glacial Lakes: Černé and Čertovo

Two of the most beautiful natural lakes in Šumava.

Accessible via trails from Špičák or Železná Ruda.

Surrounded by steep forests and perfect for photography.

🔹 2. Explore the Boubín Forest (Boubínský prales)

A protected primeval forest with trees over 300 years old.

Boubín Tower offers sweeping views of the Šumava highlands.

🔹 3. Visit Kvilda and Jezerní Slatě Peat Bog

Kvilda is one of the coldest towns in the Czech Republic.

The nearby Jezerní Slatě boardwalk reveals mysterious peat bogs and unique flora.

🔹 4. Cycle the Vltava River Trail

Follow the source of the Vltava River (which flows through Prague).

Popular biking routes run from Kvilda to Lenora and beyond.

🔹 5. Climb Poledník Lookout Tower

A Cold War-era tower turned into a panoramic observation deck.

Reachable by hiking trails from Prášily or Modrava.

🔹 6. Canoe or Raft the Otava River

In summer, enjoy canoeing sections of this clean, peaceful river.

Family-friendly with gentle rapids.

🔹 7. Discover Wildlife at the Srní Wolf Enclosure

A modern observation path lets you watch wolves in a semi-wild setting.

Includes interactive exhibits and educational stations.

🔹 8. Cross into the Bavarian Forest (Germany)

Šumava connects seamlessly to Germany’s Bayerischer Wald National Park.

The Green Belt of Europe traces the old Iron Curtain—now a symbol of unity and preservation.


📸 Most Scenic Spots for Photography

LocationHighlights
Černé LakeReflections, cliffs, forests
Jezerní SlatěPeat bogs, misty mornings, wooden paths
Poledník TowerPanoramic mountain views
Boubín ForestMossy ancient trees, mystery
Vydra River TrailCrystal-clear river, boulders, bridges

🎟️ Visitor Info & Entry Fees

Entrance to Šumava National Park is FREE.

Some guided areas (e.g., wolf center, observation towers) may charge small fees.

🗺️ Visitor Centers:

LocationFeatures
KvildaInformation, maps, nearby trails
SrníWolf enclosure, interactive displays
StožecNature exhibits, walking trails
PrášilyTrailheads, lake access, exhibitions

⏱️ Best Time to Visit Šumava

SeasonActivitiesHighlights
SpringHiking, wildflowers, fewer crowdsPeat bogs bloom, birds return
SummerAll activitiesLong daylight, biking, kayaking
AutumnHiking, photographyColorful foliage, mushroom foraging
WinterCross-country skiingSnowy trails, frozen lakes, Kvilda ski

❄️ Winter Activities

Over 200 km of cross-country ski tracks in Kvilda, Modrava, and Horská Kvilda

Winter hiking on snow-covered trails

Snowshoeing tours and night sky viewing in Prášily

Ideal for families and nature photographers


🛏️ Where to Stay in and Around Šumava

⛺ Villages with Accommodation:

Kvilda – great for hiking and skiing

Srní – close to the wolf enclosure and trails

Modrava – perfect for biking and river walks

Železná Ruda – has hotels and train access

Prášily – peaceful and centrally located

🏨 Recommended Lodges and Guesthouses:

Hotel Srní – full-service hotel with wellness facilities

Penzion U Modré Kamenice (Kvilda) – cozy mountain guesthouse

Chata Modrava – classic alpine-style cottage

Ubytování v Soumarském Mostě – near the Otava River and canoe trails


🍽️ Local Food and Cuisine

Hearty Bohemian dishes: roast pork with dumplings, sauerkraut, and mushroom soup

Forest ingredients: blueberries, mushrooms, and game meat

Try Borůvkové knedlíky (blueberry dumplings) and Svíčková (beef in cream sauce)

Local beer: Pilsner-style brews served in traditional mountain chalets


🗺️ How to Get There

🚗 By Car:

From Prague: ~3 hours (200 km) via D4 and Route 4

From Plzeň: ~2 hours

Parking is available at major trailheads and visitor centers

🚆 By Train:

Železná Ruda is accessible by train from Plzeň

From there, use local buses or taxis to reach the park

🚍 By Bus:

Buses connect Plzeň and České Budějovice to Kvilda, Srní, and Modrava

Summer shuttle services operate between villages and trailheads


🧭 Tips for Your Visit

Bring mosquito repellent in summer, especially around lakes and bogs

Carry cash—many small villages do not accept cards

Some trails pass near or into Germany—bring ID or passport

Follow marked trails and respect nature regulations

Dress in layers—weather can change quickly in the mountains


🌱 Conservation and Wildlife

Šumava is a biodiversity hotspot. It protects:

Lynx, deer, foxes, otters

Golden eagle, woodpeckers, black storks

Endangered plants in peat bogs and meadows

Park rangers and environmental organizations ensure that tourism remains eco-friendly and sustainable.


🧭 Summary Table

FeatureDetail
CountryCzech Republic
RegionSouth Bohemia / Plzeň
Entry FeeFree (some attractions charge)
Best Time to VisitSpring to Autumn
Popular ActivitiesHiking, cycling, skiing, canoeing
AccessibilityModerate (best with car or bus)
AccommodationsKvilda, Modrava, Srní, Prášily

Final Thoughts

Šumava National Park is a hidden treasure in the Czech Republic, often overlooked by international tourists. Its pristine landscapes, fairy-tale forests, and deep commitment to conservation make it the perfect destination for eco-tourists, families, photographers, and anyone seeking peace and authenticity.

Whether you’re wandering through misty bogs, pedaling along mountain paths, or listening to the howls of wolves from afar, Šumava offers an unforgettable immersion into Europe’s wild and wonderful side.