Top Ski Resorts for Your Šumava Day Trip

Finding the right spot depends on your preferred style of skiing. Some resorts focus on adrenaline-filled slopes, while others cater to families. Most areas offer modern facilities and English-speaking instructors. Here are our top picks for your next snowy adventure from Plzeň.

• Best overall: Špičák
• Best for families: Kašperské Hory
• Best for cross-country: Kvilda
• Best for experts: Velký Javor

1. Name: Špičák (Ski Areál Špičák) Type: Alpine Sight Why go: It is the most famous resort in the Czech part of the mountains. Best for: Intermediate and advanced skiers. Where: Železná Ruda area. Time: Full day. Cost: Approx. 800-1000 CZK for a day pass. Getting there: Direct train from Plzeň takes 90 minutes. Tip: Book your tickets online to skip the morning queues.
3. Name: Velký Javor (Großer Arber) Type: Alpine Sight Why go: This is the highest peak in the entire mountain range. Best for: High-altitude skiing and great views. Where: Just across the German border. Time: Full day. Cost: 40-50 EUR for a day pass. Getting there: 1 hour 15 minutes by car from Plzeň. Tip: Check the wind forecast as the summit can be breezy.
5. Name: Zadov Type: Experience Why go: Known for its Olympic training history and great cross-country loops. Best for: Cross-country fans and families. Where: Near Stachy. Time: 6-8 hours. Cost: Moderate lift prices; trails are free. Getting there: Best reached by car via Sušice. Tip: Visit the lookout tower on the old ski jump.
7. Name: Kašperské Hory Type: Activity Why go: Small, cozy slopes with a view of a medieval castle. Best for: Beginners and night skiing. Where: Kašperské Hory town. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Lower than major resorts. Getting there: 1 hour drive from Plzeň. Tip: Try the local brewery in town after your session.
9. Name: Kvilda Type: Nature Experience Why go: It is the highest village in the country and a cross-country hub. Best for: Scenic cross-country skiing. Where: Central Šumava. Time: Full day. Cost: Free trail access. Getting there: Car is recommended for flexibility. Tip: Visit the nearby wolf enclosure for a unique break.
11. Name: Modrava Type: Nature Experience Why go: Remote trails that offer true peace and quiet. Best for: Long-distance cross-country skiers. Where: Heart of the National Park. Time: 6-10 hours. Cost: Free trails. Getting there: 1.5 hours by car from Plzeň. Tip: Pack a thermos with hot tea as facilities are spread out.
13. Name: Samoty Type: Activity Why go: Gentle slopes located right in the town of Železná Ruda. Best for: Children and absolute beginners. Where: Železná Ruda. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Very budget-friendly. Getting there: Walking distance from the Železná Ruda train station. Tip: Great for a half-day trip combined with a local lunch.
15. Name: Nad Nádražím Type: Activity Why go: Excellent snow-making systems and easy access. Best for: Convenient day trips by train. Where: Železná Ruda. Time: 5-7 hours. Cost: Competitive rates. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the train station. Tip: They offer great rental packages for ski gear.
17. Name: Srní Type: Nature Experience Why go: Beautifully groomed trails through deep forests. Best for: Nature lovers seeking quiet. Where: Near the Vydra river. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Free trails. Getting there: Car is the best option from Plzeň. Tip: Follow the best hiking trails in Šumava from Plzeň which turn into ski paths in winter.

Planning Winter Day Trips to Šumava for Skiing

Success depends on good timing and the right transport. Most resorts open at 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM. Arriving early ensures you get a parking spot and fresh snow. If you are driving to Šumava National Park from Plzeň, ensure you have winter tires. Snow chains are also recommended for higher elevations.

Public transport is a reliable alternative for many. Trains run regularly from Plzeň to Železná Ruda. This town serves as a gateway to several ski areas. You can easily walk to slopes like Samoty or Nad Nádražím. Check the Visit Czechia portal for regional transport schedules and winter events.

Renting gear is easy at most major resorts. You will find skis, boots, and helmets for all ages. Most shops offer daily rates between 400 and 700 CZK. It is often cheaper to rent in Plzeň before you leave. This saves time once you arrive at the mountain.

Why Choose Šumava for Your Next Ski Adventure?

Šumava offers a unique atmosphere compared to the Alps. The mountains are older and more rounded. This makes them perfect for long, scenic cross-country tours. The prices are also much lower than in Western Europe. You can enjoy a full day of skiing and a hearty meal for a fraction of the cost.

The region is famous for its "air spas." The air quality here is among the best in Central Europe. Skiing through the frosted spruce forests is a magical experience. It is a great way to stay active during the cold months. You can find many day trips from Plzeň that focus on this natural beauty.

Safety is a priority in the National Park. Trails are well-marked with color-coded signs. Mountain rescue services are professional and always on standby. Always stay on marked paths to protect the local wildlife. Respecting the environment ensures these mountains stay beautiful for years.