Dolské Valley is a scenic gorge cut into sandstone rock in the area known as Bohemian Switzerland's lesser-known sibling, Dubské Švýcarsko, near the village of Holany. It's famous for the ruins of Chudý Hrádek castle and the old Dolský Mill, making it a rewarding stop for hikers who enjoy quiet valleys and rocky scenery.

The valley is squeezed between rows of sandstone rocks and is fed by the Dolský stream, which flows south into the neighboring Čertova rokle gorge. The area was once far more open than today - back in the early 20th century, the surrounding rocks weren't as forested, offering fine views over the whole valley from above. Now the terrain is thickly wooded, giving the valley a cool, sheltered atmosphere that's especially pleasant in summer, while autumn brings rich colors and winter frost adds a quiet, almost magical touch to the sandstone towers.

How to get there

• Holany — green-marked trail, approx. 1-1.5 hours, easy to moderate difficulty
• The trail continues on to Dřevčice, with a side path climbing up to the Chudý Hrádek ruins

Practical information

• Nearest bus stop: Holany, Pavlovice rozc., served by the regular ČSAD line from Česká Lípa
• Nearest railway stop is Zahrádky on line 087, about 6 km to the north

Only rock cuttings remain where the old Dolský Mill once stood - its history dates back to 1402, when it was mentioned in a document dividing the estate of the Berka family of Dubá.