Bohemian Paradise up hill and down dale The region known as Bohemian Paradise is located in the oldest nature reserve in the Czech Republic, which was declared in 1955. It is distinguished by its high concentration of natural and historic landmarks. Romantic valleys and numerous sandstone formations are interlaced with meadows and timber houses located along the Jizera River and beyond. This area is known for its many ponds; visitors here may also explore a dolomite cave with the largest underground lake in Bohemia. The region is replete with medieval castles and romantic chateaus, while the numerous observation towers and observation points situated atop rock cliffs offer extraordinary views over the entire region. Visitors may wander along the famous tourist trails surrounded by natural beauty that is so close one can almost reach out and touch it. Among the most interesting of the many natural beauties are Prachovské skály rocks, the Hruboskalsko rock town, Maloskalsko nature park, Podtrosecká údolí valleys, Údolí Jizery and Plakánek, Jinolické ponds, and the Bozkovské jeskyně dolomite caves. The Bohemian Paradise is not only a protected landscape area but has also been added to UNESCO’s list of geoparks. The unique complexity of the land’s topography is accentuated by characteristic landmarks that were created by volcanic activity, for example Trosky, Kozákov, Mužský and Vyskeř. The igneous rocks located throughout Český Ráj contain numerous deposits of agate, amethyst, jasper, chalcedony and other gemstones. The Bohemian Paradise is a region of many historical monuments. Among the most significant castles and chateaux are Sychrov with its interiors decorated with the largest Central European collection of French portrait paintings, the so-called Rohan gallery, Hrubý Rohozec, Mnichovo Hradiště, Dětenice, Trosky, Kost and Staré Hrady. The bizarre ruins of this Gothic castle from the end of the 14th century have become one of the symbols of the Bohemian Paradise. There are uniquely well preserved monuments of folk architecture such as the Dlaskův statek farmstead in Dolánky u Turnova, while a peek into the history of the region is also offered by the numerous museums. The Bohemian Paradise is a renowned area of hiking and cycle tourism, water tourism, climbing, adrenaline sports, cultural experiences, technical monuments, family vacations and traditional crafts. i map menu www