Klíč is the fourth-highest peak of the Lusatian Mountains and an unmistakable landmark rising above the town of Nový Bor. This striking phonolite cone stands out from the surrounding hills with its bare rocky summit and dramatic cliff face — a true highlight for anyone exploring this corner of Bohemia.

The bald rocky top offers sweeping views over Nový Bor, Česká Lípa and Ještěd, and on clear days you can even spot Říp hill or the distant Krkonoše mountains. The southern slope drops away in a striking 45–60 metre rock wall, with scree and boulder fields spread below it. In winter and early spring, spectacular ice falls form on this wall, while the boulder fields host cold-loving beetles and spiders more typical of the Krkonoše or the High Tatras. The entire mountain is protected as a nature reserve, and rock climbing is banned here year-round.

How to reach the summit

• Nový Bor — red trail, roughly 400 m of ascent, demanding hike
• From the saddle below Klíč — marked summit spur trail
• From Svor — yellow trail reaches the foot of the mountain but does not lead to the top

Practical information

• The whole mountain is a nature reserve — climbing is prohibited throughout the year
• Along the route from Nový Bor you'll find the Kamzičí spring with drinking water
• The summit is exposed bare rock, so allow time to enjoy the panoramic views

A fun fact: in 2007, a peregrine falcon nested on Klíč for the first time in over fifty years, and chamois — originally introduced by the Kinský noble family — still roam these rocky slopes today.