East Bohemia (Krkonoše Mountains)

East Bohemia is a region of contrasts, rising from the flatlands of the Elbe river basin to the alpine ridges of the Krkonoše (Giant) Mountains. For active families, this is the premier destination for outdoor sports in the Czech Republic. The crown jewel is Mount Sněžka, the country’s highest peak. While the hike to the top is challenging, a modern cable car makes the summit accessible even for families with smaller children, offering sweeping views into Poland. Just below the peaks, the town of Janské Lázně hosts the Treetop Walk, a spiraling wooden walkway that takes you high into the forest canopy and includes a slide that older kids will want to ride repeatedly.

Moving away from the high mountains, the geography shifts to the dramatic sandstone formations of the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks. This protected area feels like a fantasy film set, featuring towering stone pillars and narrow ravines. A loop trail takes families past waterfalls and through cool, mossy gorges, with a short boat ride on a hidden lake often being the highlight for younger visitors. The paths here are generally well-maintained, though some sections involve stairs that are best tackled with a carrier rather than a stroller.

The region's biggest draw for animal lovers is undoubtedly the Safari Park Dvůr Králové. Unlike a traditional zoo, this park focuses on African wildlife and offers a safari experience where you can drive your own car or take a specialized truck through herds of antelope, zebras, and giraffes. It is one of the most significant rhino breeders in the world. In the summer months, the park offers overnight stays in safari-style lodges, allowing families to wake up to the sounds of exotic animals.

Culturally, the region offers the historic city of Pardubice, famous for its intricate gingerbread. Families can visit the Gingerbread Museum (located in a fairytale-like cottage beneath Kunětická Hora castle) to see how the treats are made. For a rainy day, the regional capital of Hradec Králové features a giant freshwater aquarium and a well-equipped planetarium. Whether you are skiing in Pec pod Sněžkou in winter or cycling the flat trails around the Elbe in summer, East Bohemia provides a reliable mix of nature and entertainment.