Best Spots in the Divoka Sarka Nature Reserve

Exploring Divoka Sarka requires a bit of planning. The park is vast and has many intersecting trails. Use this list to find the most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Most trails are well-marked with color-coded signs typical of the Czech Republic.

Expect to spend at least three hours here. Many visitors bring a picnic to enjoy on the high ridges. However, there are also several places to buy snacks and beer. Here are the top 10 spots you should not miss.

1. Name: Divoká Šárka Gorge Type: sight Why go: This is the most dramatic part of the park. Massive rock walls rise on both sides of the stream. Best for: Photographers and nature lovers. Where: Main entrance near the tram stop. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the Divoká Šárka tram stop. Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best light.
2. Name: U Veselíka Swimming Pool Type: experience Why go: This is a retro, spring-fed pool located deep in the valley. It stays cold even in summer. Best for: Cooling off after a hike. Where: Middle of the valley. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee (approx. 100-150 CZK). Getting there: Follow the red trail from the gorge. Tip: Bring your own towel as rentals are rare.
3. Name: Dívčí Skok Rock Type: viewpoint Why go: This cliff offers the most famous view of the valley. Legend says a young woman jumped from here. Best for: Scenic views. Where: High ridge above the stream. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up the steep path from the restaurant. Tip: Wear shoes with good grip as the rocks can be slippery.
4. Name: Restaurace Dívčí Skok Type: experience Why go: A classic Czech garden restaurant. It is the perfect place for a cold beer or a sausage. Best for: Local food. Where: Bottom of the valley near the stream. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located on the main red hiking trail. Tip: They often only accept cash, so bring Czech koruna.
5. Name: Džbán Water Reservoir Type: sight Why go: A large lake at the edge of the park. It is great for sunbathing and swimming in a more open area. Best for: Relaxing. Where: Southern edge of the reserve. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free (some areas have paid beaches). Getting there: Walk from the Nad Džbánem tram stop. Tip: The water can get murky in late August.
6. Name: Nebušice Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: This spot offers a different perspective of the park and the nearby village. It is much quieter than Dívčí Skok. Best for: Avoiding crowds. Where: Northern ridge. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow trail toward Nebušice. Tip: This is a great spot for a sunset picnic.
7. Name: Čertův mlýn Type: sight Why go: The "Devil's Mill" is a historic site with ruins and old stone structures. It feels like stepping back in time. Best for: History buffs. Where: Along the Šárka stream. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the flat path from the main gorge. Tip: Look for the old water wheel markings.
8. Name: Vokovická třešňovka Type: nature Why go: A beautiful cherry orchard that is stunning during the spring blossom. Best for: Spring walks. Where: Near the Vokovice neighborhood. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from the tram line 26. Tip: Picking a few cherries for personal use is usually allowed.
9. Name: Kozí hřbety Type: day trip Why go: A rocky ridge just outside the main park. It offers a more rugged and wild hiking experience. Best for: Experienced hikers. Where: North of the main reserve. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike through the forest from Nebušice. Tip: The path is narrow and requires careful footing.
10. Name: Šárka Stream Path Type: activity Why go: A gentle, flat path that follows the water. It is perfect for those who want nature without steep climbs. Best for: Easy walking. Where: Valley floor. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the tram stop and stay on the paved path. Tip: This path is popular with cyclists, so stay to the side.

Planning with This Divoka Sarka Nature Reserve Hiking Guide

Reaching the reserve is very simple using Prague's public transport. Take the green metro line A to Nádraží Veleslavín. From there, hop on any tram heading to the Divoká Šárka stop. The journey from the center takes about 25 minutes.

The best time to visit is from April to October. Spring brings wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Winters can be beautiful but trails may be icy. Always check the weather before heading out into the canyon.

You do not need professional hiking gear. However, sturdy sneakers are better than sandals for the rocky ridges. Bring water, as the few restaurants can be busy on weekends. Most visitors find the trails easy to moderate in difficulty.

More Half Day Trips Near Prague

If you enjoy the Divoka Sarka nature reserve hiking guide, you might want more adventures. Prague is surrounded by green spaces and historic sites. Many of these are reachable within an hour by train or bus.

Consider an Unetice brewery hike for a mix of nature and craft beer. This trail leads you through a valley to a famous local brewery. It is a favorite weekend activity for many Prague residents.

Another great option is visiting Pruhonice Park. This UNESCO site features a stunning castle and botanical gardens. It offers a more manicured experience than the wild cliffs of Šárka. Both are excellent choices for day trips from Prague.