Essential Kleť chairlift planning checklist

Before you leave your hotel in South Bohemia, you must prepare properly. The chairlift base is not in the city center. You will need to travel to the village of Krasetín. This is a popular spot for day trips from Český Krumlov. Use this checklist to organize your morning.

• Transport: Confirm your train or bus connection to Holubov.
• Cash: Carry Czech Koruna (CZK) for small ticket windows.
• Weather: Check the local wind speed forecast.
• Navigation: Download an offline map of the Blanský Forest area.
• Clothing: Pack a windproof jacket even in summer.

The weather at the top is often much cooler than in the valley. High winds can cause the lift to stop running for safety. Always check the official Český Krumlov Official Tourism portal for sudden updates. Arriving early helps you avoid the largest afternoon crowds.

Kleť chairlift opening hours and seasonal schedule

The chairlift operates on a specific schedule that changes with the seasons. It usually starts running at 9:00 AM. During the peak summer months, it operates daily until 5:00 PM. In the winter, the lift often runs only on weekends and holidays. The lift departs at the start of every hour.

• High Season (May–September): Daily from 9:00 to 17:00.
• Low Season (October–April): Weekends and holidays only.
• Lunch Break: Note that staff may take a short break at midday.
• Continuous Operation: The lift runs constantly if more than 20 people are waiting.

Always verify if there are any planned maintenance closures before your visit. The lift is quite old and requires regular safety checks. If you are wondering can you drive to the top of Kleť, the answer is generally no. The chairlift remains the most convenient way to reach the summit without a long hike.

Current Kleť chairlift price list for 2026

Ticket prices are affordable for most international travelers. You can choose between a one-way ticket or a discounted return trip. Children, students, and seniors usually receive a significant discount. Please note that prices may increase slightly during the 2026 season. Here is the typical price structure you can expect.

• Adult One-Way: Approximately 150 - 180 CZK.
• Adult Return: Approximately 250 - 280 CZK.
• Children (under 15): Reduced rate of about 100 CZK.
• Bicycles: Small surcharge of 50 CZK per bike.
• Dogs: Usually allowed for a small fee of 50 CZK.

You can purchase tickets directly at the bottom station in Krasetín. Some ticket offices now accept credit cards, but cash is safer. For the most accurate national travel data, visit the Visit Czechia website. Always keep your ticket safe for the return journey.

What to do at the summit checklist

Once you arrive at the top, there is plenty to explore. The summit sits at 1,084 meters above sea level. You will find the oldest stone lookout tower in Bohemia here. There is also a famous observatory and a mountain restaurant. Use this checklist to make the most of your time at the peak.

• Lookout Tower: Climb the Josef’s Tower for views of the Alps.
• Observatory: Visit the Kleť Observatory for a guided tour.
• Dining: Eat a traditional Czech meal at the Tereziina chata.
• Nature: Walk the short educational trail around the transmitter.
• Photography: Capture the panoramic views of the Vltava valley.

If you prefer to walk back, there are several hiking trails to Kleť from Český Krumlov. The descent to Krasetín takes about 45 to 60 minutes. The paths are well-marked with color-coded signs. Ensure you have sturdy shoes if you choose to hike down.

Common mistakes when visiting Kleť Mountain

Many tourists make simple errors that can ruin their mountain experience. Avoiding these mistakes will save you time and money. The mountain environment can be unpredictable even in summer. Read this list carefully before you begin your ascent.

• Arriving late: The last lift down is usually at 17:00 sharp.
• Poor shoes: Wearing flip-flops for the rocky summit area.
• Ignoring wind: Forgetting that high winds shut down the lift.
• No cash: Assuming every small kiosk takes international cards.
• Missing the hour: Arriving at 9:05 and waiting 55 minutes for the next lift.
• Underestimating cold: Not bringing a sweater for the windy summit.

Mini-checklist for families with children

Traveling with kids requires extra preparation for mountain trips. The chairlift is a single-seat style, which is important to know. This means small children must sit with an adult. Use this segment to prepare your family for the ride.

• Safety: Explain to children how to sit still on the lift.
• Snacks: Bring water and light snacks for the 15-minute ride.
• Sunscreen: Apply protection as the sun is stronger at high altitudes.
• Restrooms: Use the facilities at the bottom station before boarding.