Prachov Rocks is situated 5km away from Jicin, a city in Czech Republic. It is a part of Bohemian Paradise which was declared a protected area of UNESCO Geopark. It is the most popular and beautiful sandstone rocks town here. Millions of years ago, this area was under water. Later, the region was pushed up by the effects of powerful tectonic powers and gradually these rocks were formed. These distinctive rocks are in different shapes and sizes, some 40 metres tall and are a spectacular sight. There are rocks known as the Suche skaly, the Hrubo skaly. Huge trees grow in the deep gorges between the rocks. In the 13th century A.D, King Premysl built a castle on top of the rock. The Prachovske Skaly and the surrounding region were a part of this royal castle known as Velis.
This magnificent castle is in ruins now. Visitors can reach here through two gateways. Entrance fee is 70 Czk. The visiting time is from 8am to 6pm. There are three ways to get inside the castle. They are marked in yellow, green and red colours. The yellow path is the shortest way. You can come back within an hour. The green path takes 2½ to complete around while the red one takes more time. Maps of the area are available for 30 Czk. The paths move across steps and narrow lanes in between the rocks. In order to avoid losing the way, the trees and rocks are marked with the particular colours and distance to be covered. There are view points along the paths from where you can enjoy the beauty of the city and also the stunning landscape with its different shaped rocks, gorgeous lakes and huge trees. The Hrubo Skala castle presents an exotic sight of trees amidst the rocks, the village down below and the trekkers climbing up the rocks.
