Ciboušov is a small but remarkable nature reserve at the foot of the Ore Mountains, protecting one of the most important mineral sites in northwestern Bohemia. This is where medieval miners once extracted jasper and amethyst - the very gemstones used to decorate Karlštejn Castle and St Vitus Cathedral in Prague.

The reserve sits at 425-460 m above sea level on the southern slope of a ridge known as Liščí doupě, covered by mixed forest dominated by spruce, pine and larch, with birch and oak scattered throughout. Old mining spoil heaps and trenches still scar the landscape, giving the place a slightly wild, archaeological feel. In summer the forest offers cool shade, autumn brings rich colours, and winter transforms the old workings into a quiet, atmospheric scene.

How to get there

• From the village of Ciboušov - about 2 km north/northwest, gentle terrain, easy to moderate walk
• From nearby Klášterec nad Ohří - a convenient base for exploring the region's mineralogical sites

Practical information

• Collecting or digging up stones is strictly forbidden - the site is protected specifically for its mineral deposits
• Consider combining a visit with the nearby Doupňák reserve on Holubí vrch, protected for the same jasper and amethyst deposits

It was only in 1982 that archaeological research confirmed the connection between Ciboušov's gemstones and the decorations of Karlštejn and St Vitus Cathedral commissioned by Charles IV - a discovery that led directly to the site's protection.