Bohemian Landscape Photography Guide

Beyond the architectural splendor of Prague lies a landscape of extraordinary beauty. The Czech Republic offers diverse natural scenery, from the dramatic sandstone formations of Bohemian Switzerland to the rolling hills of Moravian Tuscany. For landscape photographers, these regions provide some of the most compelling subjects in Central Europe.

This guide focuses on the most photogenic natural areas in Czech Republic, providing practical information to help you plan successful photography trips. Each location has been visited during different seasons to understand the optimal conditions for photography.

Bohemian Switzerland National Park

Bohemian Switzerland (Ceske Svycarsko) is a region of extraordinary sandstone formations in northern Czech Republic, near the German border. The area is characterized by towering rock pillars, deep gorges, and dense forests that create a mystical atmosphere, especially when morning mist fills the valleys.

Pravcicka brana (Pravice Gate)

The largest natural sandstone arch in Europe is the symbol of Bohemian Switzerland. This massive rock formation measures 26 meters wide and 16 meters high, creating an iconic silhouette against the sky. The arch is protected as a natural monument and cannot be walked upon, but viewing platforms offer excellent photography angles.

Bastei-style Viewpoints

Several viewpoints throughout the park offer perspectives similar to the famous Bastei Bridge in neighboring Saxon Switzerland. Look for:

• Mariina skala: Viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of rock formations
• Rudolfuv kamen: Dramatic rock outcrop with views of the Kamenice gorges
• Jetrichovice viewpoints: Multiple accessible viewpoints in the southern part of the park

Edmund Gorge

A highlight of any visit is a boat ride through the Edmund Gorge (Edmundova soutěska). The narrow canyon with towering sandstone walls provides unique photography opportunities. The boat rides operate seasonally, typically from April through October.

Moravian Tuscany

South Moravia features a landscape of rolling hills, vineyards, and small chapels that has earned it the nickname "Moravian Tuscany." The region's agricultural landscape creates beautiful patterns, especially when crops are at different stages of growth.

Key Photography Locations

• Kyjov area: Classic rolling hills with isolated trees and chapels
• Sardice: Famous chapel on a hill surrounded by vineyards
• Cejkovice: Wine cellars and vineyard landscapes
• Hustopece: Almond orchards that bloom spectacularly in early spring

Best Seasons

The Moravian landscape transforms dramatically through the year:

• Early Spring: Almond blossoms create pink and white displays
• Late Spring: Bright green crops create vivid patterns
• Summer: Golden wheat fields and dramatic thunderstorm skies
• Autumn: Vineyard colors and harvest activities

Adrspach-Teplice Rocks

This rock city in northeastern Bohemia features thousands of sandstone pillars, walls, and towers carved by erosion over millions of years. The formations have been given imaginative names like "Sugar Cone," "Mayor and Wife," and "Lovers," adding character to the otherworldly landscape.

Photography Considerations

The rock city presents unique challenges and opportunities:

• Narrow passages between rocks can create dramatic framing opportunities
• The tall formations mean direct sunlight reaches the ground only during certain hours
• Overcast days provide even lighting that works well for the complex rock textures
• Autumn colors from surrounding beech forests complement the grey sandstone

Access Information

The reserve is divided into two parts: Adrspach and Teplice. Each requires separate admission and offers different character. Adrspach is more dramatic with taller formations, while Teplice offers gentler terrain with a beautiful lake. Both areas are well-maintained with marked trails. Visit the Czech Tourism website for current opening hours and ticket information.

Sumava National Park

The Sumava mountains along the German and Austrian borders represent one of the largest forested areas in Central Europe. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers pristine wilderness, glacial lakes, and extensive peat bogs.

Key Locations

• Plesne jezero: The largest glacial lake in Czech Republic, surrounded by old-growth forest
• Cerné jezero: Another glacial lake with impressive cliff backdrop
• Modravske slate: Extensive peat bogs with unique vegetation
• Boubin primeval forest: One of the oldest protected forests in Europe

Wildlife Photography

Sumava is home to diverse wildlife including deer, wild boar, and the recently reintroduced lynx. The park is also excellent for bird photography, particularly owls and woodpeckers. Patience and quiet approach are essential for wildlife photography in these areas.

Cesky Raj (Bohemian Paradise)

This UNESCO Global Geopark northeast of Prague combines sandstone rock formations with medieval castles, creating a landscape that seems drawn from fantasy. The region offers excellent hiking trails connecting natural and cultural attractions.

Photography Highlights

• Trosky Castle: Twin-towered castle ruin on volcanic rock plugs
• Prachovske skaly: Labyrinth of sandstone towers with viewpoints
• Hruba Skala: Castle overlooking rock formations
• Valdstejn Castle: Baroque castle built on sandstone cliffs

Essential Gear for Czech Landscape Photography

Based on our experience photographing these locations, here is recommended equipment:

Camera Gear

• Wide-angle lens (16-35mm): Essential for capturing expansive landscapes and rock formations
• Standard zoom (24-70mm): Versatile range for varied compositions
• Telephoto lens (70-200mm): Useful for isolating details and distant subjects
• Sturdy tripod: Essential for low-light conditions and long exposures
• Polarizing filter: Reduces reflections and enhances sky contrast
• ND filters: Allow longer exposures for water and cloud movement

Practical Items

• Waterproof bag or cover: Weather can change quickly in mountain regions
• Headlamp: Essential for pre-dawn approaches to viewpoints
• Comfortable hiking boots: Many locations require walking on uneven terrain
• Layered clothing: Temperatures vary significantly between valleys and ridges

Planning Your Photography Trip

To maximize your chances of capturing stunning images in Czech landscapes:

Weather Considerations

Check forecasts carefully, but be prepared for variable conditions. Mountain weather can change rapidly, and what starts as a gray morning might clear to spectacular skies. Fog and low clouds, while challenging for visibility, often create the most dramatic photography conditions.

Timing Your Visit

Each location has optimal seasons:

• Bohemian Switzerland: Autumn for mist and foliage, spring for fresh green
• Moravian Tuscany: Late spring for crops, autumn for vineyards
• Rock cities: Any season, with autumn colors adding interest
• Sumava: Summer for wildflowers, autumn for colors, winter for snow

Getting Around

A car is essential for reaching many landscape photography locations in Czech Republic. Roads are generally well-maintained, though some forest roads may be unpaved. Train services connect major towns, but final access to specific viewpoints typically requires driving or hiking.

The Czech landscape offers remarkable diversity within a relatively compact area. From the ethereal sandstone formations of the north to the gentle agricultural patterns of Moravia, photographers will find subjects to inspire countless images. Take time to explore beyond the famous locations, and you will discover that the Czech countryside holds many secrets waiting to be photographed.

Ready to photograph urban landscapes? Check out our guide to Prague's best photography spots, or review essential photography tips before your trip.