Lake Lipno Trips: Discover the Hidden Beauty of the Šumava Mountains
Looking for the best trip ideas around Lake Lipno that you won’t find in every guidebook?
As locals, we know exactly where it’s worth going. We’ve prepared 27 hand-picked trips around Lake Lipno – from the Treetop Walkway and Plešné Lake to hidden viewpoints few tourists ever reach. You’ll find everything from short family walks to full-day hikes across the Bohemian Forest and the Lipno region.
Whether you want a relaxing stroll along the Jezerní lakeside trail or an adventurous climb up Vítkův hrádek, Lake Lipno offers trips for everyone. Each suggestion comes with an interactive map and difficulty filters to make planning easy.
Across Smrčina and Hraničník – a Wild Bohemian Forest Hike (21 km, Elevation 561 m)
Stroller: ❌ | Dog: ✅ | · A demanding but beautiful hike for fit tourists. Walk the ridge through wild nature and enjoy peace far from civilization.
A Trip for the Best View of Lake Lipno, Vítkův Hrádek (1 km climb, 48 m elevation)
Stroller: ✅ | Dog: ✅ | · A short hike to the highest castle in Bohemia. Park at Svatý Tomáš and enjoy the best view of the entire Lipno.
Plechý and Plešné Lake, A Top Trip Near Lake Lipno (16 km, 558 m elevation)
Stroller: ❌ | Dog: ✅ | · Ascent to the highest peak of the Czech Šumava. The reward for your effort will be a view of the glacial lake and panoramas from the top of Plechý.
Dobrá Voda Lookout Tower (1.5 km, 100 m elevation)
Stroller: ✅ | Dog: ✅ | · A new landmark above Horní Planá. A maintained path leads to the lookout tower, manageable with strollers with a bit of effort. Views of Lipno and Šumava are worth it.
Bear Trail: from Černý Kříž to Nová Pec (13.2 km, 322 m ↑ ) 🐾
Stroller: ❌ | Dog: ✅ | · The oldest nature trail in Šumava. Walk through the wilderness past rock formations, Jelení Lake, and the place where the last Šumava bear was shot.
Trip Along the Schwarzenberg Canal (10 km, All Downhill)
Stroller: ✅ | Dog: ✅ | · A relaxing flat walk along a technical marvel. Ideal for families and seniors, the shade of trees and the murmur of water will accompany you all the way.
The Šumava Everest, Wandering the Most Beautiful Hills Around Lake
Accept the challenge and discover 8 diverse places in the Lipno region. From the peak of Plechý via lookouts to Olšina. Collect stamps and experiences.
Vyklestilka Rock Viewpoint: Rugged Beauty Above Loučovice (6.3 km · 326 m gain)
Stroller: ❌ | Dog: ✅ | · Set off through more challenging terrain to a lesser-known, but all the more breathtaking rock viewpoint. You will be rewarded with great views and peace without crowds.
One-day Trip in Šumava from Nové Údolí to Třístoličník (7 km, 500 m elevation)
Stroller: ❌ | Dog: ✅ | · A proper Šumava hike from the border up to the rock towers of Třístoličník. A 500-meter climb and iconic views into three countries await you.
Hike to Medvědí hora via Čertovo kopyto (3.8 km, elevation gain 226 m)
Stroller: ❌ | Dog: ✅ | · A short but intense hike through the wild Šumava nature. Discover the rock formations of Godoš's Hermitage and Devil's Hoof with a view of Lipno.
Olšina Educational Trail (7.3 km)
Stroller: ✅ | Dog: ✅ | · A unique trail on wooden walkways through Šumava wetlands. A 7 km long circuit around the Olšina pond full of interesting facts about nature.
Rafting – One-day Trips on the Vltava
Stroller: ❌ | Dog: ✅ | · Experience the Vltava River from a raft. A one-day trip from Vyšší Brod is a classic that the whole family, including the dog, will enjoy.
💡 Planning a trip across the water?
We’ve prepared a quick overview of when the 4 Lake Lipno ferries run, how much they cost, and if they take cars.
Trips at Lipno that reveal the pearls of South Bohemia
Lipno is right at your doorstep from our apartments. In front of you rises Plechý — the highest mountain on the Czech side of the Šumava — and below it shimmers the mysterious Plešné Lake. And that’s just a small taste of what awaits you here.
Nicknamed the “South Bohemian Sea,” Lipno is a great starting point for trips of all kinds.
Tips for the best trips around Lake Lipno
From peaceful walks to more demanding hikes — the Lipno region delivers. Even a loop near the apartments has its charm. But if you really want to see something special, we recommend these routes:
- Plešné Lake — A glacial lake hidden deep in Šumava’s forests. Perfect for a day trip. Combine it with a hike up Plechý for big views over Lipno.
- Vltava Canyon Route — A picturesque trail with dramatic river views. Pack a decent snack and enjoy one of the area’s most rewarding walks.
- Vítkův Hrádek Castle — Ruins with a stunning panorama of the reservoir and surrounding hills. You can drive most of the way, so it’s easy on the legs.
- Schwarzenberg Navigational Canal — An 18th-century engineering gem once used to float timber to Austria. Water still runs here, so it’s easy to imagine the history. Near the canal (on the way to Plešné Lake) you’ll find a solid refreshment stop at Říjiště, and another in Jelení.
- Trails around Hůrka & Horní Planá — Don’t want to go far? A lakeside walk, a loop through Horní Planá, or nearby forests will do the trick. Just head out and explore.
📍Where to put your feet up after a day trip?
After a long day outside, you deserve a place to switch off — while the kids keep themselves busy. Our family accommodation at Lake Lipno is an ideal base for exploring — whether you’re hiking, visiting sights, or heading out with kids. You’ll find peace, comfort, a large garden, a pool, a kids’ playground, and a fish restaurant to reward yourselves after the trip.
And what about the kids? No chance of boredom — there are plenty of cycling paths, beaches, and other family activities nearby. If you want to try fishing, pop over to the Hůrka Trout Farm right behind our fence.
Book your stay now — while there’s still availability.
We look forward to seeing you!
