A long-distance cycle route that leads you through the landscape along the Jizera River, from the Jizera Mountains through Bohemian Paradise and on towards the Elbe lowlands. It connects mountain nature, river valleys, rock towns and places where it is well worth getting off your bike for a while. And because the Jizera is not only a river for cyclists, but also for paddlers, you can swap the saddle for a boat on selected sections and experience the north from a different perspective.
The symbolic start of a journey along the Jizera belongs to the mountain settlement of Jizerka, one of the most enchanting places in the Jizera Mountains. Here you will find the silence of a high plateau, traditional mountain cottages, traces of glassmaking history and a landscape of peat bogs and meadows, each with its own atmosphere in every season. It is a place where you can slow down before following the river downstream towards valleys, towns and Bohemian Paradise.
In and around Kořenov, Greenway Jizera meets one of the north’s most distinctive technical stories – the legendary Zubačka cog railway. The cog railway line from Tanvald through Kořenov to Harrachov recalls a time when crossing mountain terrain by rail required courage and exceptional engineering. You can also stop at the Cog Railway Museum and the Engine Shed, where railway history comes vividly to life.
The U Borovice Lookout Tower near Roprachtice offers a pleasant pause and views across the landscape on the border of the Jizera Mountains, the Krkonoše Mountains and Bohemian Paradise. Its wooden structure feels natural and understated, but rewards you with a view that shows just how varied the north can be. Along the route, it is an ideal place for a short break, a deep breath and a fresh boost of energy before continuing your journey.
Železný Brod is a town of glass, folk architecture and craft tradition. Here, too, the tradition of Crystal Valley comes to life. In the museum, you can explore the history of local glassmaking, discover the story of Železný Brod glass figurines and experience the atmosphere of a town that has been connected with fragile beauty for generations.
Malá Skála is one of the most attractive stops on Greenway Jizera. The surrounding landscape offers views of the Suché skály rocks, a trip to the rock castle of Vranov, a walk to the ruins of Frýdštejn Castle and a chance to relax right by the river. This is where cycling naturally meets paddling. The Jizera is popular for easy river trips, and thanks to the rental service at Žlutá plovárna, you can easily add a boat, scooter or another outdoor experience to your trip.
Svijany Castle is a pleasant cultural stop on the journey through the Jizera valley. The sensitively restored complex combines the history of a noble residence with the atmosphere of a village known for its brewing tradition. On your cycling trip, you can slow down here, walk through the castle grounds, visit the Svijany brewery on a guided tour or enjoy a moment of relaxation in the beer spa.
Turnov is the natural centre of Bohemian Paradise and one of the richest stops along the route. The town is known for its jewellery-making and stone-cutting tradition, reflected in the Museum of Bohemian Paradise and the story of Czech garnet. From Turnov, you can head to Dolánky and Dlask’s Farmstead, visit Hrubý Rohozec Chateau or continue on to the rock towns, castles and viewpoints of Bohemian Paradise.
Mnichovo Hradiště Castle is one of the most significant historic stops in the wider Jizera valley. The Baroque complex with its extensive garden recalls the world of noble residences, representation and major European stories. Visitors can join regular guided tours of the interiors, which introduce the life of the nobility as well as fascinating historical connections, including the famous legacy of Albrecht von Wallenstein.
In Mladá Boleslav, the Škoda Museum maps the history of the carmaker from its beginnings to the present day. You can see historic cars, prototypes and highlights from production. Guided tours of the production plant may also be part of the visit. The museum is easily accessible from the city centre and makes a pleasant stop on the Greenway Jizera route.
