Where to go in winter, when there is no snow
A snowless winter doesn't have to put your adventures on hold. The North of Bohemia has plenty to offer, even when the weather isn't playing ball for winter sports. So, leave the skis and cross-country gear in the closet and set off to explore the stunning landscapes of the Jizera and Lusatian Mountains, unique exhibits in regional museums and galleries, and hands-on science adventures.
Those wishing to explore the natural beauty of the Liberec Region should not miss the Jizera Mountain Cross-Country Ski Trail. Although the area is particularly popular with cross-country skiers, a lack of snow can make it accessible to hikers as well. Follow the five-kilometre circuit known as Pětka from Bedřichov past Klikvová louka and the famous Bedřichov rocking stone, or walk alongside Josefův Důl, the largest reservoir in the Jizera Mountains, towards the Na Čihadle peat bog, where a wooden boardwalk leads to an observation tower. The trail network has 23 access points from the Liberec, Jablonec nad Nisou, Tanvald and Frýdlant areas. Wherever you begin, the routes will take you to some of the greatest treasures of the Jizera Mountains and reveal the secrets hidden within them.
With little snow and fewer winter sports enthusiasts in the countryside, this is also a good opportunity to head into the heart of the Lusatian Mountains. From Stožecké sedlo, set out towards Pěnkavčí vrch and continue along the unused cross-country skiing trail to Luž, the highest mountain in the range. A year-round observation tower at the summit offers breathtaking views across the region and into Germany. After the climb, reward yourself with views of the beautiful timbered houses in the hamlet of Myslivny, where you can also stop for something tasty.
Should you prefer to shelter indoors from the winter weather, warm up your mind at iQLANDIA in Liberec. This four-storey science and entertainment centre offers a wide range of exhibitions for curious visitors of all ages. Explore the human body and its senses, discover the power of the natural elements on Earth or visit the iQPLANETARIUM, which presents fascinating weekend screenings about space and our planet. And should exercising your mind not be quite enough, enjoy an adrenaline-filled game at Laser Game in Centrum Babylon, located just a few steps away. Gather your family or friends and embark on an adventure in a post-apocalyptic world.
History and architecture enthusiasts are sure to enjoy Zákupy Chateau. During the winter months, it is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday and offers four guided tours each day. The winter tour includes the apartment of Archduchess Maria Theresa, the historic kitchen, the imperial lift and the ground floor of the chateau. While in Zákupy, you can also follow the town's Forestry Educational Trail, which introduces visitors to the local forests and countryside as well as the history and attractions of the town and the surrounding Mácha Region.
And when the landscape is missing the sparkle of freshly fallen snow, why not replace it with the shimmer of jewellery? Galerie Granát in Turnov features an exhibition dedicated to the unique Czech garnet and offers guided tours explaining how the stone is mined and fashioned into jewellery. Should it dazzle you – and we believe it will – you can choose from a range of products and take this local treasure home with you. Those who prefer the shine of glass can visit the Glass Museum at Novosad & Son Glassworks in Harrachov, the Museum of Glass and Jewellery in Jablonec nad Nisou or the Ajeto Glass Tavern in Lindava. Alongside a good meal, the latter gives you the chance to step into the shoes of a glassmaker and create your own original souvenir. Come and shine with us!
