Šámalova chata is a mountain hut tucked away on the meadow of Nová Louka in the Jizera Mountains, close to Bedřichov. It's a place where a former hunting lodge history meets the tragic story of a Czech statesman, and where hearty traditional cooking, especially game dishes, has long drawn hikers, bikers and skiers alike.

Surrounded by the forests and meadows of the Jizera Mountains, the hut has a peaceful, woodland charm — lush and green in summer, while the surrounding trails turn into a cross-country skier's playground in winter. It's also a popular venue for weddings and longer stays, so it's worth booking ahead.

How to get there

• Bedřichov — via the trail through Nová Louka, easy route, suitable also for cyclists and skiers
• Surrounding Jizera Mountains trails lead directly to the Nová Louka meadow

Practical information

• The hut functions as a hotel and restaurant, well known for its game cuisine
• About 800 m (2,600 ft) away lies Blatný pond with a historic water turbine
• The location has been used in film and TV productions

The hut is named after Přemysl Šámal, head of the Office of the President of Czechoslovakia, tortured to death by the Nazis in 1941 — a plaque at the edge of the meadow honors his memory.