Schwarzenberg Cycling Trail (44 km, 10 m elevation)
If you’re heading out for a holiday at Lake Lipno, it would be a shame to miss the Schwarzenberg Timber Canal. This more-than-200-year-old construction is an absolute masterpiece of its time and remains one of the most impressive technical monuments in the entire Bohemian Forest.
Because it runs through beautiful scenery and has only very gentle elevation, the best way to enjoy it is from the saddle of a bike. (If you prefer walking, check out our shorter tip for a hike along the canal.) The Schwarzenberg Cycle Trail lets you ride the entire length of the canal from start to finish and see all its unique structures up close.
The route starts at the Rosenauer Monument, where you can learn about the engineer who designed the canal. Right at the start, the canal bed is currently being cleaned – today, on 20 September 2025, we saw excavators and part of the canal already cleared (the work progress may naturally change). From here, a comfortable gravel road continues, gently descending and following the historic canal bed.
At the 11 km mark, you’ll pass the Jelení Tunnel – an almost 400 m long cut through the rock – and right behind it, we recommend a short stop at the Schwarzenberg Canal exposition in Jelení.
Around kilometre 19, you’ll reach the Rossbach Aqueduct, where the canal crosses the Koňský Stream – a perfect spot for a photo and a break. Around kilometre 30, the route crosses into Austrian territory. The surface here is excellent and the ride flows nicely. About a kilometre into Austria, you’ll come across a pleasant pub, Jausenstation Blauer Hirsch, where you can easily communicate in Czech and replenish supplies. It’s open only in summer and closed Monday to Wednesday.
The last 2 km before the end, the cycle trail returns back to the Czech Republic. The finish is easy, and at the end you can comfortably descend toward Lake Lipno. The closest access point is the ferry in Dolní Vltavice.
What you’ll see along the way:
- Jelení Tunnel – an almost 400 m long rock cutting allowing the canal to cross the ridge.
- Rossbach Aqueduct – a stone bridge carrying the canal’s water over the Koňský Stream. A great place for photos and a short pause.
- Dozens of sluices and gates that once regulated the water flow and timber transport – today a reminder of the impressive craftsmanship of past builders.
The entire route is about 44 km long with an elevation gain of roughly 10 m, making it perfect even for families with children or recreational cyclists. The surface is solid and mostly runs through forest, so it stays pleasantly cool even on hot days.
You can join the Schwarzenberg Cycle Trail practically anywhere – for example in Stožec, Nová Pec or near Horní Planá – and just as easily descend back toward Lake Lipno at any point. A popular finish is at the ferry in Dolní Vltavice, from where you can comfortably return by boat.
📍Where to relax after a day in the saddle?
After a full day on the bike, you deserve a place where you can put your feet up, recharge, and let the kids entertain themselves. Our family accommodation at Lake Lipno is the perfect base for all cyclists – whether you’re here for a leisurely ride or a proper challenge. You’ll find peace, comfort, and great facilities including a pool, a playground, and a large garden. And if you want a break from cycling, head out for local trips, the beach, or more Lake Lipno experiences with kids.
Book your stay while there’s still something to choose from.
We look forward to seeing you!
