Smrk (1,127 m a.s.l.) is the highest peak of the Rychleby Mountains — a forested, atmospheric summit that rewards hikers with wild nature rather than sweeping panoramas. It is a place where a protected peat bog, ancient boundary stones and dense spruce forest all meet in one quiet spot.
The summit is entirely wooded, giving it a secluded and almost mystical feel. The highlight is the Malení raised bog near the top, a nature monument with characteristic peat vegetation tucked among the spruces. In summer the forest hums with birdsong, in autumn it glows with warm colours, and in winter the trails make for excellent snowshoe routes. Don't expect wide-open views — instead, enjoy the raw, untouched atmosphere of one of the quietest corners of the Czech-Polish borderland.
How to reach the summitThe German historical name of the peak was Fichtlich — just like the Czech and English names, it refers to the spruce tree that defines this mountain's character entirely.