The Classic Tepla River Promenade

This is the most accessible route in the city. It follows the gently flowing Tepla River through the heart of the spa zone. You can start near the Brutalist-style Hotel Thermal. This walk requires no special hiking gear.

The path takes you past the magnificent Dvořák Park. You will see locals playing petanque and visitors resting on benches. The route continues toward the ornate Mill Colonnade. Stunning 19th-century architecture lines both sides of the river.

You will eventually reach the Grandhotel Pupp at the valley's end. The entire walk is paved and flat. It is perfect for families or those with limited mobility. The total distance is roughly two kilometers one way.

Many visitors combine this stroll with drinking mineral water. You can buy a porcelain cup at any kiosk. Sipping the water while walking is a local tradition. For a detailed guide on this route, check the Tepla River valley walkway information.

Pause frequently to admire the pastel-colored facades. The atmosphere is relaxed and elegant. This promenade captures the essence of the golden age of spa tourism.

Diana Observation Tower Loop

The hike to Diana Observation Tower is a local favorite. This brick tower stands high above the Grandhotel Pupp. It offers the single best panorama of the region. On clear days, you can see for miles.

You have two options for reaching the top. You can take the historic funicular railway to save energy. Alternatively, you can hike the serpentine forest paths. The walk up takes about 45 minutes for average hikers.

The trails wind through dense forests of oak and beech. The air is noticeably cooler and fresher here. If you choose to hike down, it is much easier on the legs. You will pass several rest stops along the way.

Discover more about the route in our Diana Observation Tower hike guide. The complex at the top includes a restaurant and a mini-zoo. It is a fantastic spot for a midday break.

The tower itself has an elevator for total accessibility. Entry to the tower is free. The view looks directly down into the river valley. You can see how the city snakes along the water.

Deer Jump Lookout Trail

This trail leads to the most iconic symbol of Karlovy Vary. The statue of a chamois (mountain goat) stands on a rocky needle. Legend says a deer jumped here to escape Emperor Charles IV. This event reportedly led to the discovery of the hot springs.

The path to the lookout splits off from the Diana trail. It is shorter but can be quite steep in sections. Stone steps and dirt paths guide you upward. The route is well-shaded by massive trees.

You will encounter the statue of Peter the Great nearby. The history here is palpable at every turn. The view from the Deer Jump (Jelení skok) is spectacular. It offers a closer, more intimate angle of the city center.

Photographers love this spot during the golden hour. The afternoon light hits the city facades perfectly. This is an essential stop for any first-time visitor. To find the exact route, read about the Deer Jump lookout trail.

Svatoš Rocks Nature Trail

This walk takes you away from the city center bustle. It follows the Ohře River toward a stunning rock formation. The Svatoš Rocks (Svatošské skály) are massive granite pillars. They resemble a petrified wedding procession according to legend.

The trail is flat and follows a designated cycle path. It is approximately six kilometers from the Doubí district. You can take a local bus to the starting point. The river scenery is calm and peaceful.

This area is popular with cyclists and families. The path is paved, making it suitable for strollers. You will pass canoeists paddling down the river in summer. The forest opens up to reveal the towering rocks.

Several suspension bridges cross the river along the way. These make for fun photo opportunities. There are restaurants near the rocks for a hearty lunch. Plan your trip using our guide to the Svatoš Rocks hiking trail.

Return via the same path or take a train back to the city. The local train station is just across the river from the rocks. It is a perfect half-day excursion.

Goethe’s Lookout and Heights

Explore the quieter eastern hills of the city. This area is often overlooked by day-trippers. The destination is the stunning Goethe’s Viewpoint. It is a romantic neo-Gothic brick tower.

The hike begins near the Hůrky bus stop. The ascent is steady but rewarding. You walk through deep, silent spruce forests. It feels miles away from the busy colonnades.

Goethe walked these paths frequently during his visits. He loved the geological diversity of the area. The tower was restored recently and looks magnificent. You can climb to the top for a unique perspective.

From here, you can see the Ore Mountains in the distance. The view is different from the Diana tower. It captures the rugged landscape surrounding the spa town. Learn specifically about this path in the Goethe's Lookout Tower walk article.

The descent can lead you toward the Three Crosses peak. This is another mystical spot with three large wooden crosses. The folklore here is rich and fascinating.

Practical Hiking Tips for 2026

Hiking in Karlovy Vary is safe and accessible. The Czech Hiking Markers System is one of the best in the world. Look for painted stripes on trees and posts. They are color-coded (red, blue, yellow, green) for easy navigation.

Wear comfortable shoes with good grip. The cobblestones in town can be slippery. Forest paths can be muddy after rain. Check the weather forecast before heading out.

Public transport is excellent for reaching trailheads. The local buses run frequently and reliably. You can check schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. Tickets are affordable and easy to purchase.

Carry a small backpack with water and snacks. While there are cafes, forest trails have no services. Summer days can get warm, so bring a hat. Winters are cold, requiring layers and gloves.

Visit the information center for free physical maps. They offer detailed topographical maps of the spa woods. For general tourist information, visit the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site. Planning ahead ensures a smooth experience.