Pěnkavčí vrch (1105 m a.s.l.) is a quiet, forested summit in the eastern Giant Mountains of the Czech Republic, sitting just 5 kilometres from Sněžka — the highest peak in Czechia. While it lacks the crowds of its famous neighbour, it more than makes up for it with a genuine sense of wilderness and a wonderfully calm atmosphere.

The peak forms part of a ridge running south and then south-east from Sněžka. Its flanks drop steeply into deeply carved valleys — the Messner Ditch, Jelení stream and Malá Úpa flow to the north, while the Úpa river passes below the southern slope. The landscape is dominated by spruce forest broken by clearings and mountain meadows, especially around the hamlets of Pěnkavčí Vrch and Janovy Boudy on the south-eastern slope. In spring the meadows are lush and colourful; in winter the area transforms into a low-key ski destination with a local charm you simply won't find at the bigger resorts.

• Portášové Boudy — yellow-marked Kubátova trail (running from Sněžka to the confluence of the Úpa rivers) passes south of the peak; the summit can be reached via forest roads — moderate difficulty.
• Portášové Boudy — green trail no. 4250 descends the northern slope to Spálený Mlýn.

• A passenger cable car operates between Velká Úpa and Portášové Boudy — a handy way to gain elevation before the walk.
• Several small ski lifts are found in the settled areas near the saddle between Pěnkavčí vrch and Červený vrch.
• Mountain accommodation and refreshments are available at the nearby hamlets of Pěnkavčí Vrch, Janovy Boudy and Portášové Boudy.

The name 'Pěnkavčí vrch' translates as 'Chaffinch Hill' — and its old German name Pinkenberg means exactly the same thing. A peak named after a small bird feels just right for this peaceful, off-the-beaten-path corner of the Giant Mountains.