The best climbing in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is full of rocks, sandstones and quarries that you can climb. Every region has something, and every village is within walking distance of rocks or an indoor climbing center. Maybe that's why we tend to want to go to the best places in Bohemia and conquer not only the most difficult routes that we are capable of, but also the most beautiful rocks with the best views. That is why we have here for you a list of what can be considered the best climbing in the Czech Republic (without any emphasis on order). 

1. Elbe sandstones

Elbe sandstones are probably the obvious first choice (and not just ours). Sectors like Island or Thousands are self-explanatory. In addition, "Labák" also includes Czech Switzerland, which does not need to be introduced. 

The rocks here are sandstone and you climb on your own (sandstone) belay. It is a paradise of towers and joints, where it is necessary to have a strong will and not to be afraid of possible major falls. Island, Paradise and Tisá are among the most popular sectors here. For a trip here, we highly recommend consulting one of the newly published guides, as newcomers cannot handle the large number of towers and walls of the Elbe alone. Once you get the hang of it, beautiful roads and tops with views like nowhere else await you!

2. Moravian karst

The Moravian Karst is now a permanent icon of the climbing world. These limestone rocks have been a place of climbing since the Middle Ages. The advantage is that, apart from your own belay, you can climb pretty good sports shoes here, as well as boulders.

Rocks tend to be slippery to the point of marble (warning for climbers who are not used to this) and fixed belays are often quite far apart. But when you get used to it, you have time ahead of you climbing on beautiful rocks in beautiful nature. There are many sectors to choose from and a wide range of difficulties. If Adam Ondra's videos got you into climbing, so be it Holstein or Column they will be places you want to see.

3. Czech karst

Czech karst is a traditional climbing spot for Central Bohemia and Prague, and for a really good reason. Stretching between Berounka and Karlštejn, this climbing area has something for everyone. Climbing here is divided between quarries and rocks, on which you can climb on your own, boulder but also climb sports shoes. 

The main sectors are here Serbia and Rocks near Koněprus. It is a climbing area that is very well maintained by members of the Czech climbing community, so everyone will definitely find something for themselves here. As it is a relatively frequented climbing place, some routes are slippery. But this is more than compensated by the beauty of the lines, great views and well-maintained roads. Check out the guide at Jan Kareš Climbing Team!

4. Bohemian Paradise

The climbing area Český raj belongs to perhaps the most exclusive climbing areas in the Czech Republic. Climbing is subject here to the rules of the Czech Paradise PLA, which are really followed (we're not kidding!). The entire area is made of sandstone and is therefore very fragile. It has its own rules, culture and, above all, climbing style.

When you get here on the rope, remember, you must not climb in the rain and it is strictly forbidden to use wedges. Take a big handful of morals and gloves on joint climbing. At the same time, you have the opportunity to climb one of the most beautiful places in our country. Sandstone towers and walls offer you not only a beautiful view of the landscape, but also a challenge like almost nowhere else!

5. Jeseník

Jeseník is a beautiful place to throw a rope (for climbing) or go bouldering. Just like the Bohemian Karst, Jeseník is also a place where local union (the oldest in the Czech Republic) can be proud of having the best climbing in the Czech Republic.

There are 25 sectors on Jeseník where you can climb both on your own and for sport. For gourmets there is also ice climbing (in winter) and bouldering. There are over 1,200 ropeways hiding here, which if you're not overwhelmed, we recommend checking out one of online guides and enjoy what awaits you there. And if you are not satisfied with this area in northern Moravia, it is possible that you will never be satisfied again.

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Bonus: Pavlovské vrchy

A little bonus from us, for you, is the area Pavlovské vrchy in southern Moravia. Climbing in the very heart of Pálava is something that could not be missed here. Although it did not make it to our TOP 5 list, it is definitely among the best climbing in the Czech Republic. You will find beautiful white rocks here, which are generally well secured for sport climbing (but you can also climb on your own). You'll climb here on rocks that are somewhat reminiscent of the south of France, so you'll also save on an expensive trip across the border. In addition, there is also our only 9b from Adam Ondra, so even the biggest greasers will find their way! And if not, it's Pálava, so you can satisfy yourself in the vineyard.