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Devil’s Wall and Stone Sea: A Magical Place at Lake Lipno
Stroller: ✅ | Dog: ✅ | · A magical place shrouded in legends. Majestic rock cliff and stone sea above the Vltava valley, easily accessible just a short walk from the parking lot.
Stroller: ❌ | Dog: ✅
Vyklestilka is a hidden Šumava viewpoint that most people have no clue about. And that is exactly its charm – no crowds, no lines for selfies, just rocks, iron, and great panoramas above Loučovice. Vyklestilka is something of a “forgotten sister” of all the well-known Lake Lipno viewpoints; it is an inconspicuous hill that hides a steep surge and a surprisingly beautiful view from the top of the rocky ridge. Anyone who likes discovering new places will find it here.
Vyklestilka: A rock fortress above the Vltava valley
If you are looking for a trip that isn’t just about walking on flat ground but also offers a bit of adventure, Vyklestilka (887 m above sea level) above Loučovice is the clear choice. This mountain is sometimes called a “rock fortress,” and when you look at the massive wall made of Weinsberg granite, you will understand why.
The historical German name of the mountain is Wicklefskirche (Wicklef’s Church). Legend has it that followers of the teachings of the reformer John Wycliffe (a 14th-century English theologian) used to meet secretly in these rocks. This was extremely radical and dangerous for its time, as it directly attacked the power and wealth of the church. It was his ideas that became the main engine for Czech Hussitism (Master Jan Hus literally copied entire passages from Wycliffe). The current name Vyklestilka probably originated as a corruption and Czechization of this name.
Ascent in the footsteps of the first tourists
The summit consists of a steep and rugged rock that a regular tourist without equipment would not easily reach. Fortunately, this place has been popular for a long time – members of German Šumava clubs carved steps into the granite and hammered in iron rungs and steel eyes in the past. Thanks to these historical aids, you can still scramble up to the summit platform today. It is an authentic experience that you won’t find on the groomed Lake Lipno trails.
⚠️ Safety first! The path to the summit is secured with rungs, but it requires caution and a steady step. We strongly advise against climbing in wet, rain, or icy conditions, without appropriate equipment!
If the weather is on your side and you climb up, you will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful and least-known views of the Lake Lipno region, the Vltava valley, and the opposite hill, Luč.
Crossing the entire ridge
Do you have two cars? Then you can make the best trip out of it. Leave one car in Loučovice (finish), the second in Vyšší Brod near the monastery (start) – and walk it one way across Vyklestilka.
Don’t have two cars? No problem! There is a bus stop at both parking lots. So it can be elegantly combined: up from one side, down from the other, and finally by bus back to the car.
Why go there?
Because it’s exactly the type of place where you say to yourself: “How is it that almost no one knows about this?” At the summit, a platform with a railing and a summit book awaits you. The view from there is fantastic and circular. You will see clearly:
- The Lake Lipno dam and a large part of the lake.
- The opposite hill Luč and the ruin of Vítkův Hrádek.
- The town of Loučovice and the Vltava valley.
- In good visibility, even the peaks of the Austrian Alps (Dachstein).
Tip for cyclists
Vyklestilka lies just a short distance from the popular cycle path Lipno – Vyšší Brod. You can ride a mountain bike right up to the rock itself, but be prepared for a real “steep climb” that will give you a workout. It’s not for everyone, but if you’ve trained (or have an e-bike), you can handle it. Then lock your bike under the rock and head up on foot – using ladders and rungs.
Map of the trip to Vyklestilka
📍 Where to rest after a demanding hike?
After returning from Vyklestilka, your legs deserve a rest. Our comfortable accommodation for families with children is a great base for the whole family. We offer a large fenced garden, a playground, and a saltwater pool in a peaceful setting.
And if you’re in the mood for more adventure, Lake Lipno offers many possibilities: Try relaxing at the beach. We can also recommend other trips, cycle paths, or experiences for children. And in the evening, back to us in the garden, where the kids can continue their fun and you can open something cold.
Book your stay in time, while there is still a choice.
We look forward to seeing you!
