Martinské stěny is a striking sandstone cliff face stretching nearly 300 metres through the quiet forests of northern Kokořínsko. It's a place where raw rock, heathland and lichen-covered stone come together to create a wild, atmospheric corner of the landscape - perfect for hikers who love dramatic terrain away from the crowds.

The cliff rises between 390 and 420 metres above sea level, its sandstone walls formed from quartz sandstone dating back to the Cretaceous period. At the top of the rock face, small but distinctive erosional forms known as karren (rock grooves) have developed over time. The surrounding heathland hums with insect life in summer, while in autumn and winter the forest takes on a quieter, more mysterious character. Either way, it's a rewarding spot for a peaceful walk through one of the region's most characteristic sandstone landscapes.

How to get there

• A red-marked trail runs along the top edge of the cliff, crossing the entire northern part of Kokořínsko - easy walking, suitable for most visitors
• About 100 m from the western end of Martinské stěny, the red trail meets a green-marked trail leading from Kravaře past Ronov to the Krápník and Tisícový kámen caves, and onward to Čap
• Cycling route no. 0058 also passes through the area

Practical information

• The site is protected for rare invertebrates, including the heathland wolf spider (Alopecosa fabrilis) and the brown tarantula spider (Atypus affinis)
• The nearest train station (on the Česká Lípa - Lovosice line) is in Blíževedly, about 8 km away
• The nearest settlement is Dolní Heřmánky, roughly 1 km to the east

Fun fact: Martinské stěny forms part of the much larger Roverské skály Natura 2000 site, spanning nearly 1,700 hectares of protected sandstone landscape.