8 Hidden Gems of Šumava – Day Trips Away From the Crowds

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Šumava stretches across a national park and a protected landscape area, hiding an endless number of wonderful places. If you long for peaceful wanderings and great experiences far from the tourist crowds, we have ideal tips for a day trip to Šumava.

Forget about crowded well-known places like Plechý, Plešné Lake, Modrava, or Kvilda. Set out to discover unknown beauties that you will fall in love with. We have prepared a selection of seven unique day trips to Šumava, where you can fully enjoy peace and beautiful nature.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation, a technical curiosity, or a peaceful walk with children in nature, here are 7 tips for day trips in the Šumava area:

❄️ Our Winter Tip for a Day Trip to the Bohemian Forest 2025/26

Povydří is one of the most beautiful places in the Bohemian Forest, even under snow. A frozen river, silence, and the heated Turner Cottage. You don't need skis, just sturdy shoes (and ice spikes!). Winter trip through Povydří – more info here.

Day Trips to Šumava in Summer and Autumn

Head to Šumava during a time when the biggest crowds have thinned out. With the first signs of autumn, the forests also begin to turn into beautiful shades, transforming your walk into an extraordinary visual experience.

Stožec Chapel of the Virgin Mary in the middle of the forest with a historic stone cross and boulders in the foreground

Trip to Stožecká Chapel (5.5 km, 210 m climb)

Stožecká Chapel is a hidden gem near Lake Lipno, offering an authentic experience in the heart of Šumava. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is considered one of the most powerful energy spots in the region. Legend has it that a local blacksmith regained his sight here after washing his eyes with water from the spring. The chapel is easily accessible from Černý Kříž along the yellow hiking trail. A great tip for a relaxing day trip with children to Šumava.

Monument to Josef Rosenauer at the start of the Schwarzenberg Canal – a reminder of the man who designed and inspired the canal

Rosenauer Reservoir and Monument from Nové Údolí (4 km, 144 m elevation gain)

The Rosenauer Reservoir is a technical marvel from the 19th century that commemorates the visionary engineer Josef Rosenauer and his Schwarzenberg Navigational Canal. This reservoir without water offers historical significance and a peaceful retreat for those looking for a different experience in Šumava. The place is accessible from several directions, for example, from Stožec or Nové Údolí.

Old iron ring in the rock at Vyklestilka and a view down from the steep cliff.

Vyklestilka Rock Viewpoint (6.3 km · 326 m elevation gain)

Looking for views without the crowds? Vyklestilka above Loučovice is a rock fortress that you climb via old iron staples and ladders. Expect a bit of adrenaline and a wonderful circular view of Lipno, Vítkův Hrádek, and the deep Bohemian Forest. An ideal tip for more adventurous souls.

Panoramic view from the summit of Medvědí hora onto the Lipno Reservoir and the surrounding Bohemian Forest.

Hike to Medvědí hora via Čertovo kopyto

The hike to Medvědí hora is short but intense. The reward for the steep ascent is a stunning panoramic view of the Lipno Reservoir and the deep Bohemian Forest woods. Along the route, you will encounter legendary places such as the rock formation Čertovo kopyto (also called Gypsy Castle) and the outlaw’s hideout, Godošova Poustevna (Hermitage). The trail runs through a protected natural monument and is ideal for those seeking wild nature and a powerful experience away from large crowds.

Aerial view of Marta Hill with the rest area, Stations of the Cross, and the panorama of Frymburk and Lipno

The Stations of the Cross on Marta Hill in Frymburk

The Stations of the Cross on Marta Hill in Frymburk offer a pleasant and easy hike with magnificent views of the Lake Lipno area and Šumava. The trail starts in Frymburk and gradually climbs through terrain lined with historic stone pillars. At the top, there is a small chapel and a viewpoint. The hike is also suitable for families with children and takes one to two hours.

Maria Rast pilgrimage chapel nestled among mature trees in the forests above Vyšší Brod.

The Stations of the Cross on Maria Rast near Vyšší Brod

The Stations of the Cross on Maria Rast near Vyšší Brod is an important pilgrimage site that combines history and spirituality. The impressive Stations of the Cross lead visitors from the foothills to the Baroque Chapel of the Virgin Mary of the Snows on Marínkovský Hill. The history of the path dates back to 1767. Today, it serves as a peaceful walk in nature and attracts believers as well as lovers of history and art.

Detail of water flowing over stones with fallen leaves and tiny icicles

Waterfalls of St. Wolfgang

The Waterfalls of St. Wolfgang near Šumava represent a quiet and refreshing place amidst untouched nature, ideal for an easy day trip. The picturesque cascades stretch along the crystal-clear stream of Menší Vltavice for several hundred meters. They are easily accessible along the yellow hiking trail from Vyšší Brod, making them a great destination not only for families with children but also for other tourists looking for a peaceful hike and relaxation.

Hiker sitting on a rock near a cross in the Austrian part of Šumava

Over Smrčina and Hraničník – Trip through the Wild Bohemian Forest (21 km, elevation gain 561 m)

Looking for a proper hike? The route over Smrčina and Hraničník is most beautiful in autumn or spring when the beech forests play with colors. 21 km, over 500 meters of elevation gain, and magnificent views into Austria and Lipno await you. It is an oasis of peace and wild nature where you often won’t meet a soul.

These are exactly the kinds of day trips to Šumava that will guarantee you peace, during which you won’t have to push through crowds of tourists. Although you will meet few people here, these places have their own charm. All of them are routes or destinations that you can comfortably handle in one day, even with children, without unnecessary rush and stress. Ideal for those who want to discover the beauties of Šumava a little differently—in peace and without the annoyance of it being crowded again…

If you are looking for a trip with truly panoramic views, don’t miss our tip for a day trip to Šumava, specifically Třístoličník. The route will take you to a border peak with great views of Šumava and neighboring Austria and Germany.

More Tips for a Day Trip to Šumava

In addition to the lesser-known routes around Lake Lipno, it’s worth heading to other beautiful places in Šumava. You can comfortably handle all of them as a day trip to Šumava, and breathtaking views and natural attractions await you.

Boubínský Prales (Boubín Primeval Forest): The most famous primeval forest in the Czech Republic with a lookout tower, ideal for families and more experienced hikers.
Tříjezerní Slať (Three-Lake Peat Bog): An educational trail on boardwalks, also suitable for children—discover the unique Šumava peat bog.
Poledník Lookout Tower: A former military tower near Prášily offers a 360-degree view of all of Šumava.
Kvilda: A picturesque Šumava village where you will find a deer preserve, an information center, and beautiful surrounding trails.

These destinations are a bit further from Lake Lipno, but as a day trip to Šumava, they are definitely worth it. If you want more inspiration, also check out our complete overview of trips at Lake Lipno and in the surrounding area.

Where to Rest Your Feet After a Day Trip?

After a full day in nature, you deserve a place where you can truly rest. Our family accommodation at Lake Lipno is an ideal base for exploring the Lake Lipno area and Šumava—whether you are going on a hike, to see sights, or on a trip with children. Peace, comfort, a large garden, a pool, a children’s playground, and a fish restaurant where you can truly enjoy a meal upon your return are waiting for you here.

And what about the children? They certainly won’t be bored—there are plenty of cycling paths, swimming spots, and other experiences in the area. And if you take them fishing, you can go straight to the Hůrka Trout Farm right next to the apartments.

Book your stay in time, while there is still something to choose from.
We look forward to seeing you!