Krkonoše mountains up hill and down dale The Krkonoše Mountains are the highest and most visited mountains in the Czech Republic, and also the only mountains here with an alpine character. The steep cirques and vast mountain meadows, rocky crests, charming valley and unspoiled flora and fauna – these were the reasons Krkonoše National Park was designated as such in 1963. The Krkonoše mountains are attractive not only because of their unique nature, but also due to the peculiar folk architecture that can be seen in the timber houses located in the villages in the foothills as well as the hamlets throughout the mountain range. The highest of the Krkonoše Mountains and at the same time of the Czech Republic is Mt. Sněžka (1 603 m) with the highest located post office in Bohemia. The natural beauties that attract visitors to the Krkonoše National Park are the source of the Elbe River, the Pančavský and Labský waterfalls in the Labský důl valley, the Dvorský les beech forest in Rýchory and also the Černohorské rašeliniště peat bog in Velká Úpa. Sněžné jámy - huge glacial cirques where snow lies until summer, are a local curiosity. A visit to some of the typical mountain chalets can complement the trip. The Krkonoše Mountains offer visitors a variety of sports, adrenaline as well as cultural activities all year round. The cross-country ski trail – Krkonošká magistrála, connects the western and eastern Krkonoše Mountains, as does the dense network of hiking and cycle trails. Ski buses help skiers in winter and cycle buses are available for cyclists in summer. Also worth a try is paragliding, snow scooters, snowtubing, offroad scooters and other adrenaline activities at numerous centres in Harrachov, Rokytnice nad Jizerou, Velká Úpa and Špindlerův Mlýn. The historical Kovárna mine, which is situated in one of the most beautiful valleys – Obří důl, is also worth a visit. Glass crafts enthusiasts will enjoy visiting one of the oldest glassworks in Harrachov, which can be complemented by a walk to the Mumlavský waterfall or a visit to Poniklá village, where Christmas decorations are handmade from glass beads. The history of the Krkonoše Mountains is commemorated in museums in Jilemnice, Vysoké nad Jizerou, Vrchlabí and Paseky nad Jizerou. i map menu www