Czerwone Skałki is a remarkable cluster of granite rock formations in the Izera Mountains, home to 28 documented rock shelters packed into a tiny area - one of the richest concentrations of such features in the entire Western Sudetes. If you enjoy hikes combined with geological discovery, this spot is made for you.

The rocks rise along the High Ridge (Wysoki Grzbiet), between Jakuszyce and Szklarska Poręba, above the Kamienna river valley. Selective weathering of the porphyritic granite has carved out crevice, collapse, and inter-block formations here, while pink feldspar megacrystals give the rocks their distinctive reddish hue. From the top you get views across the Izera Mountains and the Karkonosze - best in autumn and winter, when the trees don't block the panorama. At the foot of the slope you'll find two disused granite quarries, including the historic 'Wiciarka'.

How to reach the summit

• Jakuszyce - trail heading towards the High Ridge, walking time depends on pace, moderately demanding route
• Szklarska Poręba - alternative approach via the Kamienna valley

Practical information

• Until 1945 the rocks were protected as a nature monument
• The area is explored by local cavers - some of the rock shelters weren't identified until 2014
• Disused quarries lie nearby - take care around the old workings

Fun fact: the German name Rote Flossfelsen refers to the reddish tint of the granite, especially striking in the light of the setting sun.