Planning Your Trip to the Jeseníky Mountains

Getting to the mountains from Olomouc is quite simple. You can choose between public transport or a rental car. Most hikers prefer the bus for a direct route. Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for current schedules. The drive usually takes about one hour.

Trains are another reliable option for travelers. Look into the best train day trips from Olomouc to compare routes. You will likely head toward the town of Bruntál or Šumperk. From there, local buses connect to the mountain trailheads. Early departures are best to maximize your daylight hours.

The weather in Jeseníky can change very quickly. Even in summer, the summit can be chilly. Always check the mountain forecast before leaving the city. The peak season runs from June through September. Winter offers great skiing but requires specialized hiking gear.

10 Best Sights When Hiking Praded Mountain from Olomouc

The journey to the summit is filled with unique landmarks. You will pass through dense forests and rocky ridges. Each stop offers a different perspective of the landscape. Here are the top ten experiences to include on your trek.

1. Name: Praděd TV Tower Type: Sight Why go: This iconic tower is the highest point in the country. It features a restaurant and an observation deck. Best for: Panoramic views and a warm meal. Where: At the very summit of Praded. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for the elevator. Getting there: Hike from Ovčárna. Tip: Try the traditional garlic soup in the restaurant.
2. Name: Bílá Opava Waterfall Trail Type: Nature Why go: This is arguably the most beautiful trail in the region. It features wooden bridges and rushing waterfalls. Best for: Nature photographers and fit hikers. Where: Between Karlova Studánka and Ovčárna. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the yellow trail in Karlova Studánka. Tip: Wear waterproof boots as the path is often wet.
3. Name: Petrovy kameny Type: Viewpoint Why go: These massive rock formations are steeped in local legends. They offer a great view of the TV tower. Best for: Folklore fans and geology lovers. Where: Near the Ovčárna mountain hut. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the main paved path. Tip: Stay on the marked paths to protect rare plants.
4. Name: Karlova Studánka Spa Town Type: Experience Why go: This historic spa town has the cleanest air in Central Europe. The wooden architecture is incredibly charming. Best for: Relaxing after a long hike. Where: At the base of the mountain. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free to walk; spa treatments vary. Getting there: Direct bus from Olomouc. Tip: Taste the local mineral water from the public fountains.
5. Name: Barborka Mountain Hut Type: Sight Why go: This historic hut has served hikers for decades. It is a perfect spot for a mid-hike break. Best for: Experiencing traditional mountain hospitality. Where: Below the summit on the southern slope. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate for food. Getting there: Follow the blue trail from Ovčárna. Tip: Check the outdoor terrace for great valley views.
6. Name: Velké Losiny Thermal Park Type: Day trip Why go: After hiking, soak your muscles in warm thermal waters. It is a famous local wellness destination. Best for: Recovery and families. Where: In the town of Velké Losiny. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: See the Velké Losiny thermal park trip guide. Tip: Visit the nearby handmade paper mill as well.
7. Name: Ovčárna Mountain Resort Type: Experience Why go: This is the main hub for hikers and skiers. It serves as the gateway to the summit. Best for: Starting your trek at a higher elevation. Where: High plateau below Praded. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free access. Getting there: Take the shuttle bus from Hvězda. Tip: This is the last spot to buy snacks before the peak.
8. Name: Dlouhé stráně Pumped Storage Plant Type: Sight Why go: This massive engineering marvel is hidden inside a mountain. The upper reservoir offers surreal views. Best for: Tech enthusiasts and cyclists. Where: Near Kouty nad Desnou. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid tours available. Getting there: Chairlift from Kouty. Tip: Book tours well in advance during summer.
9. Name: Červenohorské sedlo Type: Viewpoint Why go: This mountain pass is a key crossroads for many trails. It offers great views of both sides of the range. Best for: Starting a longer ridge hike. Where: On the main road between Šumperk and Jeseník. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus from Olomouc or Šumperk. Tip: The local hotel serves excellent blueberry dumplings.
10. Name: Kurzovní chata Type: Experience Why go: A large mountain hotel with a great atmosphere. It is one of the highest-altitude accommodations in the area. Best for: An overnight stay to see the sunrise. Where: Between Ovčárna and the summit. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Paved road from Ovčárna. Tip: Look for the local Jeseníky herb liqueur at the bar.

Essential Tips for a Successful Praded Hike

Preparation is the key to a safe mountain trip. Always wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. The trails can be rocky and slippery in sections. Bring layers of clothing to handle temperature drops. You can find more advice on the Visit Czechia website.

Czech hiking trails use a very clear color-coded system. Red and blue trails are usually the main routes. Yellow and green trails often serve as connectors. Look for the painted markers on trees and rocks. They are very reliable and easy to follow. Carrying a digital map like Mapy.cz is also highly recommended.

Hydration and nutrition are vital for a long day. While there are huts, carry at least two liters of water. Pack high-energy snacks like nuts or chocolate. Remember to carry all your trash back down with you. Respecting the national park rules helps preserve the environment.

More Great Day Trips Near Olomouc

If you have more time in Moravia, explore further. The region is packed with history and natural beauty. You might enjoy a visit to the Javoricko caves for a different adventure. These caves feature some of the best stalactites in the country.

For those who love religious history, head to the hills nearby. The Svaty Kopecek attractions guide offers a look at a beautiful basilica. It provides a great view back toward Olomouc. It is a much easier walk than the Praded summit.

Moravia is also famous for its castles and gardens. You can find many best castles near Olomouc within an hour's drive. Each site tells a unique story of the Czech crown. Make sure to plan your transport in advance for these rural spots.