The largest natural rock arch in Europe and the symbol of Bohemian Switzerland. The climb to the arch leads through a picturesque valley via Mezní Louka.
The largest rock arch in Europe
Pravčická brána (Pravčice Gate) is a monumental natural rock formation with no equal in Europe. With a span of 26 metres and a height of 16 metres, it is the largest natural rock arch on the continent. The sandstone arch was shaped over millions of years by erosion and today it is the absolute icon of Bohemian Switzerland. The arch is so exceptional that it became the logo of the national park and one of the most photographed natural formations in the whole country.
Sokolí hnízdo — a restaurant on the edge of the drop
Directly beneath the rock arch stands the romantic Sokolí hnízdo (Falcon's Nest) restaurant, built in 1881 in the style of an alpine hunting lodge. The building is set into the rock so perfectly that it looks as if it grew there naturally. Today it serves as a museum and exhibition space, with a display devoted to the history of tourism in Bohemian Switzerland. The views from the terrace of Sokolí hnízdo are the kind you remember for the rest of your life.
Which way to Pravčická brána
Several hiking routes of varying difficulty lead to the arch. The most classic and also the easiest starts in Hřensko and climbs via Mezní Louka — the walk takes roughly 1.5 hours and families with younger children will manage it too. For fitter hikers we recommend the route from Mezná along the red waymarks, which offers beautiful glimpses of the rock towers. From Jetřichovice you can reach the arch in about 2 hours via picturesque Vysoká Lípa.
Protection for future generations
Since 1982 it has been forbidden to walk onto the rock arch itself — the sandstone is gradually crumbling and the arch has to be protected for future generations. But do not be disappointed: the viewpoints in the immediate area offer fantastic angles for photographs. The best light is early in the morning, when the sun lights the arch from the side and there are hardly any visitors. In autumn, when mist fills the valley and the arch rises above a white surface, you can experience truly magical moments.
Practical tips from us
We recommend setting off early in the morning — you will avoid the crowds and enjoy the finest light. In the summer season parking around Hřensko is a problem, so consider arriving before nine. Access to the arch is subject to a fee (charged by the national park administration). Bring plenty of water — there are no refreshment stops along the route until Sokolí hnízdo. The whole trip combines beautifully with a visit to the gorges, which are only a few kilometres away.
Photo gallery
