A nature lover’s paradise: Hiking through Drbákov-Albertovy skály
One of the most popular lookout spots on the River Vltava is in the hills of the Central Bohemian Upland, about an hour’s drive south of Prague.
In the southwestern part of the Drbákov-Albertovy skály nature reserve there are up to 1,000 red yew trees.
The most interesting parts of the reserve feature a 7.4 km circular nature trail, which starts at the U Křížku car park. Occasionally the river's surface flashes through the trees before finally the view of the Vltava opens up to its full extent and walkers come out at the Tis (Yew) lookout spot.
On the way to the White Rock (Bílá skála), you can sometimes hear strange deep sounds as the waves crash against the dam every time a motorboat or small boat passes by. The terrain around the White Rock is more challenging, in some places involving serpentine paths or sections with chains to help trekkers. Nevertheless, the trail is for all abilities.
At the viewpoint that follows the White Rock, there is a beautiful juniper tree. A little further on, the path goes around a distinctive rock with a memorial plaque commemorating an important figure in the region, František Veselý.
The next viewing point, perhaps the most spectacular in the whole reserve, is called the Albert lookout. Before descending to it, you can rest near a monument to František “Robin” Veselý.
The return to the car park is also exciting, with the trail leading alternately through the forest and along a meadow at its edge. Beneath it stretches a classical Bohemian landscape with the picturesque villages of Nalžovice and Chlum.
Related
-
From steep slopes to winding waters: The five most picturesque Vltava River viewpoints
Join Radio Prague International on a tour of the most beautiful Vltava viewpoints, which are freely accessible and ideal for day trips.
