The Legend of the Chamois Statue in Karlovy Vary

The legend began in the 14th century. Emperor Charles IV was hunting in the forest. His hounds chased a deer to a steep cliff. The deer jumped into a steaming pool of water. The dogs followed and began to howl in pain. The king realized the water was very hot. He soon discovered that the springs had healing powers. This led to the founding of the town.

You might wonder why the statue is a chamois and not a deer. In 1851, a wealthy man named Baron August von Lützow lived here. He thought the deer story was too simple. He wanted to show that a chamois is much more agile. He commissioned the zinc statue to be placed on the rock. You can find more details on the official Karlovy Vary tourism site.

Today, the statue is a symbol of the city. It reminds everyone of the magical discovery of the springs. The hike to the statue is short but steep. It offers some of the best views in the region. Here are some quick picks for your visit:

• Best overall: The Chamois Statue
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Vřídlo Geyser
• Best free activity: Deer Jump Lookout

10 Iconic Stops on the Deer Jump Lookout Hiking Trail

The path to the statue is full of history. It winds through lush forests and historic streets. The city is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Each stop on this list offers something unique. Make sure to bring your camera for the viewpoints.

1. Name: The Chamois Statue Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the most famous symbol of the city's founding legend. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Jelení skok rock. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: The statue is smaller than it looks in photos, so look closely!
2. Name: Deer Jump Lookout Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers a panoramic view of the spa district and the river. Best for: Scenic views. Where: Just above the Chamois statue. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This is the best spot for a group photo.
3. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It provides the highest view over the entire valley. Best for: Families. Where: At the top of the funicular. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free entry to the tower. Tip: Read our Diana Observation Tower guide for funicular prices.
4. Name: Vřídlo Geyser Type: Indoor/Nature Why go: Watch hot water shoot 12 meters into the air. Best for: Science fans. Where: Vřídelní kolonáda. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Tip: Try the water from the different fountain temperatures.
5. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in the city. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Near the river. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the 12 statues representing the months of the year.
6. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Iconic sight Why go: This wooden structure covers the spring where Charles IV supposedly bathed. Best for: History lovers. Where: Close to the Vřídlo Geyser. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Check out the bronze relief of the discovery legend.
7. Name: St. Mary Magdalene Church Type: Iconic sight Why go: A beautiful Baroque church located in the heart of the spa area. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Near the Vřídlo spring. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Tip: Visit the underground crypt if tours are available.
8. Name: Imperial Spa Type: Museum Why go: A luxury spa building that looks like a palace. Best for: Indoor exploration. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for tours. Tip: The interior is very ornate and great for photos.
9. Name: Mayer’s Gloriette Type: Viewpoint Why go: A quiet wooden gazebo with a lovely view of the town. Best for: Couples. Where: On the trail between the center and Diana. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It is a great place to rest during the hike.
10. Name: Peter the Great Lookout Type: Viewpoint Why go: Named after the Russian Tsar who climbed here on a bet. Best for: History lovers. Where: Near the Deer Jump rock. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the plaque commemorating the Tsar's visit.

Planning Your Visit to the Deer Jump Lookout

The hike to the statue is manageable for most people. You can start from the Market Colonnade and walk up the stairs. The paths are well-marked and paved. If you want to save energy, take the Diana funicular halfway up. You can check the local transport site for the latest schedules. It is best to visit in the morning to avoid crowds.

Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven. The weather in Bohemia can change quickly, so bring a light jacket. You can find more travel tips on the Visit Czechia website. Most sights are open year-round, but the forest trails are best in spring and autumn. Always carry a bottle of water, even if you plan to drink from the springs.