Kozákov is a striking volcanic hill in the heart of Bohemian Paradise, famous for its colorful gemstones and sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. It's a place where geology lovers, hikers and rock collectors have gathered for centuries, drawn by tales of agates, jaspers and amethysts hidden in its slopes.

The landscape here is a gentle, rolling terrain covered with forest, dotted with old quarries and unusual rock formations. One highlight is the so-called Moon Valley (Měsíční údolí), home to a rock-carved chamber called Drábovna and the pseudokarst caves Babí pec and Kudrnáčova pec, which hold traces of the northernmost known Stone Age settlement in the region. In spring, martagon lilies and spring snowflakes bloom along the trails, while peregrine falcons and black storks nest in the cliffs above. Summer offers clear panoramic views from the summit, autumn brings golden forest colors, and in winter the hilltop is often wrapped in mist, giving it a quiet, almost mystical atmosphere.

How to get there

• Vesec pod Kozákovem or Lestkov pod Kozákovem — marked trail, approx. 1-1.5 hours, easy to moderate difficulty
• Alternative approach from Turnov or Železný Brod — longer hike, moderate difficulty

Practical information

• The area lies within the Bohemian Paradise Protected Landscape Area and Geopark
• Collecting minerals within the nature reserve is prohibited to protect the geological heritage
• Votrubcův lom quarry is a key geological site in the southern part of the reserve

Fun fact: Kozákov's gemstones attracted artists as far back as the era of Charles IV, and mining flourished again under Rudolf II — making it one of the most fascinating geological sites in the Czech Republic today.