The Teplice Rock City: Exploring the Majestic Teplické skály
The Teplice Rock City is an impressive, labyrinth-like sandstone massif in the Czech Republic, characterized by its imposing rock walls—some over 90 meters high—and narrow gorges. It is widely considered the wilder and less crowded sister to the neighboring Adršpach Rock City. The loop trail leads through massive formations like “Rübezahl’s Toothpick” and the narrow “Siberia” gorge, where snow often remains until summer. A challenging climb to the ruins of Střmen Castle also offers a breathtaking panoramic view.
Known locally as Teplické skály, this site is a natural spectacle that thrills visitors with its unique landscape. The most famous hiking trail spans 6 km and is a scenically attractive loop. The entrance is located on the outskirts of Teplice nad Metují, hence the name. The area is defined by continuous rock walls reaching heights of 70 meters, slender rock towers, overhangs, mysterious caves, and deep valleys enclosed by stone.
During your walk, you will encounter rocks with curious names like the Caterpillar, the Axe, or the Hand with Ice Cream. Key sights include the Rock Crown and the Temple and Martin Walls. Within the Temple Walls lies the largest cave labyrinth in Central Europe, known as Poseidon. This system of sandstone caves, abysses, and steep gorges extends over 27 kilometers. Another remarkable feature is Siberia, an area where it can snow even in summer because the sun rarely reaches the deep, winding gorges. We visited in midsummer—it was only 11°C inside while it was 30°C outside!
Good to Know
The Teplice Rock City is often mentioned alongside its neighbor as the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks. Technically, however, they are two independent rock cities separated by the Wolf Gorge. You can explore each on its own circular path. Experienced hikers can visit both in one day, covering a distance of about 15 kilometers—a very sporty option.
Cool for Kids
The Teplice Rock City is a rewarding destination with children. Little hikers love the rocks, but they should be able to walk about 6 km independently, as this trail is not suitable for strollers. The paths are far too narrow. For smaller children, a child carrier (backpack) is necessary.
Facts & Figures: Teplice Rock City
| Feature | Details |
| Name (Czech) | Teplické skály |
| Location | Northeast Bohemia, Czech Republic |
| Region | Broumov Highlands, Hradec Králové Region |
| Geology | Sandstone (Cretaceous period) |
| Hiking Trail | Blue loop trail, approx. 6 km |
| Highlights | Narrow gorges, Střmen Castle, “Siberia” |
| Famous Formations | “Rübezahl’s Toothpick”, “The Temple”, “The Ice Bear” |
| Climbing | Internationally known area with over 2,000 towers |
| Entrance | Official entrance in Teplice nad Metují with parking |
Direct Access to Teplice Rock City
Adršpach is a scattered settlement, and the entrance to the Adršpach rocks is in a different district than the entrance to Teplice. For the Teplice Rock City, you can park near the official entrance at the edge of Teplice nad Metují. The train is also a great alternative! If you travel by rail, get off at the Teplice nad Metují – Trutnov station. From the stop, it’s only a 3-minute walk to the entrance.
The Teplice Rock City Hiking Experience
The loop through the majestic Teplické skály is a 5.9 km adventure through a fascinating world of stone. You must purchase entrance tickets at the cash desk; the fee is required but generally cheaper than at Adršpach.
At the start, you follow a wide path marked with blue indicators. After about 2 kilometers, you reach the former Střmen Castle. Over 300 steps lead up from the hiking path. They are steep and demanding, and the final section uses ladders to reach the viewpoint. You should be sure-footed and have a head for heights, as the upper ladders are not for casual walkers. The ruins tell stories of the lords of Skalice, and the view from the top is breathtaking.
Continuing along the main path, you reach the impressive Rock Gate. A plaque commemorates Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who visited in 1790. This marks the beginning of the most beautiful section of the trail—a 2 km loop through the heart of the rocks. You will pass the Great and Small Cathedral Squares and the Rock Chapel, accessible through a narrow gap.
The highlight for many is the Rock Crown, a majestic formation first climbed in the 1920s. The Cathedral Walls tower up to 70 meters, making you feel like a tiny adventurer. You will also see the Sphinx, the Herring, and the highest point of the trail between the Boar and a neighboring tower.
Siberia and the Ice Bear
The Ice Bear rock is another milestone, first climbed in 1927. Behind it lies a passage created in 1864 to allow for the full circular route. This leads you into Siberia, a section of narrow gorges between high massifs. Even in the height of summer, the temperature here stays around 11°C, and unique mosses and plants thrive in this cool microclimate. After exiting the Siberia gorges, the loop closes, and you follow the wide path back to the entrance.
Personal Conclusion about the Teplice Rocks
If you want to experience the rock landscapes of the Czech Republic in their most original and rugged form, you cannot miss the Teplice Rock City. My top tip: visit during the week and outside of the main summer holidays. Without the crowds, you can truly appreciate the sheer scale of the formations. It is best to combine it with Adršpach for a full day of adventure, but Teplice remains the quieter, more natural part of the journey.
