Why Visit the UNESCO Ore Mountains Mining Tunnels?

The Ore Mountains became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019. This honor recognizes over 800 years of mining culture. The region shaped global technology and economy. You will find unique geological formations and historic machinery. It is a perfect addition to any day trips from Karlovy Vary itinerary. Most sites are just a 30-minute drive from the spa center. Experience the cool, damp air of the tunnels today.

10 Best Tours of UNESCO Ore Mountains Mining Tunnels

Explore these top-rated sites to understand the region's industrial soul. Many tours require advance booking due to small group sizes. Here are the best specific locations for your visit:

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Mauritius Mine (Hřebečná)
• Quick Pick: Best for History - Royal Mint Museum
• Quick Pick: Best Adventure - Johannes Mine
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - Starý Martin Mine

1. Name: Svornost Mine (Důl Svornost) Type: Experience Why go: It is the oldest continuously operating mine in Europe. You can see how radon water is pumped for local spas. Best for: History buffs and spa enthusiasts. Where: Jáchymov. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Local bus from Karlovy Vary to Jáchymov. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the ground is often wet.
2. Name: Mauritius Mine (Důl Mauritius) Type: Sight Why go: This is a massive tin mine with a giant underground chamber called Christopher. It is a centerpiece of the UNESCO region. Best for: Photography and geological interest. Where: Hřebečná (near Abertamy). Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Car or taxi from Karlovy Vary. Tip: The temperature is 7°C year-round, so bring a warm jacket.
3. Name: Johannes Mine (Důl Johannes) Type: Experience Why go: It offers a very authentic, rugged experience with low ceilings and narrow passages. You get to wear full mining gear. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Zlatý Kopec. Time: 2 to 4 hours depending on the route. Cost: High. Getting there: Private car is best. Tip: Book the "Large Route" for a deeper exploration of the shafts.
4. Name: Royal Mint Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the silver mining that led to the coining of the Thaler. This coin eventually gave the US Dollar its name. Best for: Families and coin collectors. Where: Jáchymov town center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Walking distance from Jáchymov bus stops. Tip: Visit after visiting the Royal Mint Museum in Jáchymov to connect the silver to the coins.
5. Name: Starý Martin Mine Type: Sight Why go: It features one of the longest tin veins in Central Europe. The tour is very educational for children. Best for: Families. Where: Krupka. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train to Teplice, then local bus. Tip: Check the Karlovy Vary railway station official site for regional connections.
6. Name: Wolf Pit (Vlčí jámy) Type: Nature Why go: See the dramatic collapse of old mine workings that created deep chasms. Ice remains here even in summer. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: Horní Blatná. Time: 1 hour walk. Cost: Free. Getting there: Scenic train from Karlovy Vary to Horní Blatná. Tip: Combine this with a climb up the nearby Blatenský vrch tower.
7. Name: Blatenský Canal (Blatenský příkop) Type: Experience Why go: A 12km long water ditch built in the 1500s to power the mines. It is a masterpiece of hydraulic engineering. Best for: Easy walking and outdoor history. Where: Between Boží Dar and Horní Blatná. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus to Boží Dar. Tip: The trail is flat and perfect for a relaxed afternoon walk.
8. Name: Astoria Spa Radon Tour Type: Experience Why go: Understand the history of Jachymov radon spa treatments linked to the mines. It bridges the gap between industry and health. Best for: Wellness travelers. Where: Jáchymov. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Regular bus service from Karlovy Vary. Tip: This is a great "dry" alternative to going deep underground.
9. Name: Lehnschafter Mine Type: Sight Why go: An ancient mine showing multiple levels of medieval and early modern work. It is very atmospheric and less crowded. Best for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers. Where: Mikulov v Krušných horách. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Car is highly recommended. Tip: The village of Mikulov is also famous for its local skiing in winter.
10. Name: Hell’s Mouth (Peklo) Trail Type: Experience Why go: A trail that visits the remnants of the uranium mining era. It includes the "Tower of Death" memorial. Best for: 20th-century history interests. Where: Vykmanov/Jáchymov. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Local transport or car. Tip: This tour covers sensitive political history, so prepare for a somber experience.

Planning Your Jachymov Mining History Tour

Most tours of UNESCO Ore Mountains mining tunnels operate from April to October. Some mines close during the winter months for safety. You should check the Visit Czechia website for seasonal updates. Always wear long pants and a fleece. The humidity underground is very high. If you rely on public transport, consult the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary for bus schedules. Many mines are located in remote areas. Booking a guided tour with transport is often the easiest option.