Top Highlights of a Soos Nature Reserve Trip

The reserve is famous for its "mofettes," which are often called mud volcanoes. These vents release carbon dioxide from deep underground. The area was once a salt lake that dried up thousands of years ago. Today, it is a protected peat bog with unique flora and fauna. You will walk on a specialized boardwalk to protect the fragile ground.

Before you start, check the Soos National Nature Reserve ticket prices online. Most visitors spend about two hours exploring the main loop. The path is flat and easy for all ages. Here are the top things to see during your visit.

• Quick Pick: Best for Families - The Prehistory Museum.
• Quick Pick: Best Photo Spot - The Mofette fields.
• Quick Pick: Best Free Activity - Exploring Nový Drahov village.

1. Name: The Mofettes Type: Nature Why go: These are the iconic mud volcanoes near Františkovy Lázně. You can hear them bubbling and hissing. Best for: Photography and geology fans. Where: Central part of the reserve. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow the main boardwalk trail. Tip: Visit after rain to see more active bubbling.
2. Name: The Boardwalk Nature Trail Type: Viewpoint Why go: This 1.2-kilometer path takes you safely across the marsh. It offers views of the white diatomite layers. Best for: Easy hiking and birdwatching. Where: Starts at the main entrance. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: The trail is clearly marked from the parking lot. Tip: Stay on the wooden path to avoid sinking into the bog.
3. Name: Soos Museum of Prehistory Type: Museum Why go: It features life-sized models of dinosaurs and prehistoric animals. It explains the geological history of the region. Best for: Children and history buffs. Where: Near the entrance building. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Walk from the main gate. Tip: The museum is small, so visit it before the trail.
4. Name: Císařský Spring (Imperial Spring) Type: Sight Why go: This is a cold mineral spring with high iron content. It has a unique reddish color and a distinct taste. Best for: Tasting local mineral water. Where: Located along the nature trail. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via the boardwalk. Tip: Bring a small cup if you want to try the water.
5. Name: Bird of Prey Rescue Center Type: Experience Why go: This station cares for injured owls and hawks. You can see these majestic birds up close. Best for: Animal lovers. Where: Near the parking area. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Follow signs from the museum. Tip: Ask the staff about the birds' recovery stories.
6. Name: The Diatomite Shield Type: Nature Why go: This is a massive layer of prehistoric algae remains. It looks like a dusty white desert. Best for: Seeing rare geological formations. Where: Visible from the boardwalk. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Central section of the trail. Tip: Look for the salt-loving plants growing in the cracks.

Best Nearby Destinations to Visit

Your Soos Nature Reserve trip can easily be combined with other local gems. The Karlovy Vary region is famous for its spa culture and medieval architecture. Many of these spots are just a short drive or train ride away. You can explore Visit Czechia for more regional inspiration. These locations offer a great contrast to the wild nature of Soos.

7. Name: Nový Drahov Type: Neighborhood Why go: This tiny village features traditional timber-framed houses. It is a perfect spot for a local lunch. Best for: Food and architecture. Where: Right outside the reserve entrance. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to walk around. Getting there: Walking distance from Soos. Tip: Try the local trout at one of the village inns.
8. Name: Františkovy Lázně Type: Day trip Why go: A beautiful yellow-and-white spa town. It is famous for its relaxing atmosphere and parks. Best for: A Františkovy Lázně spa day. Where: 6 kilometers from Soos. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free to explore. Getting there: Direct train or 10-minute drive. Tip: Rub the statue of little František for good luck.
9. Name: Cheb Medieval Center Type: Day trip Why go: Cheb features a stunning medieval castle and a group of merchant houses called Špalíček. It is rich in history. Best for: History lovers. Where: 15 minutes by car. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Castle entry is around 150 CZK. Getting there: Use the Cheb medieval town guide for directions. Tip: Visit the castle tower for views of the German border.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A dramatic 12th-century fortress perched on a rock. It was a favorite spot of Goethe. Best for: A Loket Castle day trip. Where: 30 minutes from Soos. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approximately 170 CZK. Getting there: Car or bus from Karlovy Vary. Tip: Look for the "dragon" living in the castle basement.

Planning Your Soos Nature Reserve Trip

Planning a Soos Nature Reserve trip is simple with a little preparation. The reserve is open from spring through late autumn. In winter, the boardwalk can be slippery and some facilities close. Most visitors arrive via Karlovy Vary or Františkovy Lázně. The local train station is called "Nový Drahov" and is very close to the entrance.

Check the Karlovy Vary railway station official site for updated schedules. Trains run regularly and are quite affordable. If you are driving, there is a large paid parking lot on-site. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be dusty or damp. Bring water, as the sun can be strong on the open marshes.

For 2026, expect ticket prices to be around 100-120 CZK for adults. Family tickets are usually available at a discount. The reserve has a small cafe and a souvenir shop. However, for a full meal, the nearby village is a better choice. Always respect the local environment by not leaving any trash behind.