Planning Your Soos Nature Reserve Trip

Before you head out, it helps to know what to expect. The Soos National Nature Reserve is located just a few miles from the spa town of Frantiskovy Lazne. It covers over 220 hectares of protected land. Most visitors spend about two to three hours exploring the main trail.

The reserve is open seasonally, usually from March to November. Spring and autumn offer the most dramatic views of the mist and bubbling mud. You should check the Soos National Nature Reserve ticket prices before arriving to plan your budget. Most travelers combine this with a visit to Karlovy Vary.

• Best overall: The Main Mofette Field
• Best for families: Museum of Prehistory
• Best for peace: The Peat Bog Boardwalk
• Best free activity: Hiking trails in the surrounding forest

9 Best Sights at the Mud Volcanoes near Frantiskovy Lazne at Soos

The main attraction is the geological trail. It takes you through a landscape shaped by volcanic activity. Here are the specific spots you cannot miss during your visit to the mud volcanoes near Frantiskovy Lazne at Soos.

1. Name: The Main Mofette Field Type: Sight Why go: This is the heart of the reserve. You can see and hear the CO2 bubbling through the mud. Best for: Photographers and geology fans. Where: Central part of the educational trail. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow the boardwalk from the entrance. Tip: Visit after rain for more active bubbling.
2. Name: Císařský pramen (Imperial Spring) Type: Experience Why go: This is a cold mineral spring. The water is naturally carbonated and rich in minerals. Best for: Tasting local nature. Where: Near the start of the trail. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free with entry. Getting there: Clearly marked path near the museum. Tip: Bring a small cup to try the mineral-heavy water.
3. Name: Museum of Prehistory Type: Museum Why go: It features life-sized models of dinosaurs and ancient animals. It explains the history of the earth. Best for: Families with children. Where: Next to the main parking lot. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Located at the reserve entrance. Tip: Great place to hide if a sudden rain shower hits.
4. Name: The Peat Bog Boardwalk Type: Nature Why go: This 1.2km path protects the delicate salt marshes. It offers great views of the white salt crusts. Best for: Easy walking. Where: Loops around the reserve. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: The main path through the site. Tip: Stay on the wood to protect the rare plants.
5. Name: Bird Rescue Station Type: Experience Why go: This facility cares for injured birds of prey and owls. You can see these majestic birds up close. Best for: Animal lovers. Where: Near the museum buildings. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Donation suggested. Getting there: Short walk from the main gate. Tip: Check the feeding times for a better experience.
6. Name: Geological Educational Trail Type: Activity Why go: Information boards explain the unique chemistry of the area. It covers the transition from lake to bog. Best for: Curious learners. Where: Throughout the entire reserve. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow the numbered signs. Tip: Read the English translations on the back of the boards.
7. Name: Kateřina Narrow-Gauge Railway Type: Experience Why go: A historic mining train that occasionally runs for tourists. It used to haul clay and peat. Best for: History and train buffs. Where: Station located near the entrance. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Extra fee applies. Getting there: Check the local schedule at the gate. Tip: These trains usually run on summer weekends.
8. Name: Frantiskovy Lazne Spa Town Type: Day trip Why go: A beautiful yellow-painted spa town. It is part of the UNESCO Great Spa Towns of Europe. Best for: Relaxation and architecture. Where: 6km from Soos. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: Easy drive or local train. Tip: Rub the statue of little Frantisek for good luck.
9. Name: Seeberg Castle (Ostroh) Type: Day trip Why go: A well-preserved medieval castle. It features historical interiors and a folk museum. Best for: History lovers. Where: 10km from the reserve. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Entry fee required. Getting there: Best reached by car. Tip: The castle restaurant serves traditional Czech food.

Essential Tips for Visiting the Soos Mud Volcanoes

To enjoy your trip, wear comfortable walking shoes. The boardwalks can be slippery when wet. Even though it is a "volcano" site, the ground is not hot. The gas vents are cold, so don't expect heat.

You should also bring water and sun protection. Much of the trail is open with very little shade. If you are coming from further away, consider other day trips near Karlovy Vary to make the most of your day. The region is packed with castles and spas.

Respect the nature reserve rules at all times. Do not step off the boardwalks into the mud. The ground is unstable and the salt crust is very thin. Also, remember that smoking is strictly prohibited due to the dry peat.