The highest hill in Bohemian Switzerland (736 m), with a lookout tower on top. Clearly visible from our cottages and an easy climb.
The highest hill in Bohemian Switzerland within reach
At 736 metres, Studenec is the highest hill in all of Bohemian Switzerland — and it lies only 3 kilometres from our cottages in Lipnice. From the cottage terrace you can see it as a distinctive cone-shaped silhouette on the horizon. The climb up Studenec is one of our guests' favourite walks and an ideal way to start a holiday. The path runs mostly through forest on a comfortable trail and families with younger children will manage it too.
A stone tower with a panorama of four mountain ranges
On the summit stands a stone lookout tower built in the 19th century, and from its platform a panorama unfolds that has no rival in the region. To the north stretch the ridges of the Lusatian Mountains, to the west the majestic table mountains of Saxon Switzerland, to the south the Ore Mountains rise, and in good visibility you can see as far as the spires of Dresden. It is a place where you understand why this region is called a Switzerland — the landscape is rugged, broken up and breathtaking.
A morning walk in golden light
The climb is most beautiful early in the morning, when the eastern sun floods the landscape with golden light and bands of mist rise from the valleys. At that hour you have the tower to yourself and the only sound breaking the quiet is birdsong. An evening climb is just as lovely — sunset from the Studenec tower is one of those experiences you remember long after you get home. Bring a flask of tea and enjoy a moment of calm.
Practical tips for the climb
A waymarked trail leads from Lipnice up to Studenec and at an easy pace you will manage it in 45 minutes. The elevation gain is roughly 350 metres, the path stays in the forest the whole way and is pleasantly shaded in summer. There are no refreshments at the top — bring a snack and plenty of water, especially in summer. Sturdy shoes are an advantage, but in dry weather trainers will do. The tower is open all year round and admission is free. On the way back you can take the loop via Kunratice and extend the walk to a comfortable 2 hours. Studenec is an ideal first trip after you arrive — you get your legs going, get your bearings in the landscape and see the region from a bird's-eye view. Many of our guests come back again and again, because changing weather and light make every climb different.
