Europe's 'best value' hidden gem has £36 flights from UK and beautiful national parks
While the area is just a couple of hours from a popular European city break destination, it's a little-known gem, and can be easily reached from the UK
A little-known mountain destination has been dubbed a ‘hidden gem’ thanks to its range of affordable flights from the UK and budget-friendly accommodation, as well as its unspoilt beauty.
Running across the Czech-Polish border, the region took the top spot in a list of Europe’s 10 most affordable destinations for adventure travel this summer, which was ranked by the affordability of costs from food to leisure activities.
At number one was the Krkonoše Mountains, which straddle the Czech-Polish border, which were described as “one of Central Europe's most underrated hiking destinations”. The rankings, compiled by SportsCover Direct, named this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve as a “premier year-round destination for hiking, cycling, and winter sports.”
Mount Sněžka lies at the heart of the landscape made up of alpine meadows and glacial valleys, and at 1,603-metres it’s the highest peak in the Czech Republic. There are a variety of ways to get to the peak, from moderate three-hour hikes to full-day ridge treks for more experienced walkers. But if you want to save your energy there’s also a cable car that zips you to the top for panoramic 360-degree views that let you see across the mountain tops and into the lowlands of Poland.
Mumlavský vodopád make up another popular spot in the mountains, thanks to the set of waterfalls tucked away within deep, lush forest trails. The water runs down giant rock steps, leading to fresh and bracing pools where you can swim. Nearby, you can also visit Pramen Labe, the source of the River Elbe, one of the largest rivers in Europe, which flows through 26 cities. Hike or take the cable car to this spot and you’ll see the flags of all the cities where the water will eventually flow.
Throughout the mountains, you’ll see murals and sculptures of Krakonoš, a mythical mountain man said to be the guardian of the Krkonoše. At the Krkonoše Museum, there’s a kid-friendly interactive exhibition about Krakonoš and other fairytale folklore from the region.
During the winter, Špindlerův Mlýn is one of the most popular towns in the area to stay in thanks to its easy access to local winter sports resorts. But it’s also worth a visit in summer where it’s a perfect base to explore the lush green mountains.
Nearby Harrachov is another spot popular for skiing, and it also has a famous ski jumping facility for those who are feeling particularly brave. There’s also the family-friendly Pec pod Sněžkou, which is popular for its ski school and facilities for beginners.
The best way to visit the Krkonoše Mountains is to fly to Václav Havel Airport Prague - the city’s main airport. This airport is served by several budget airlines from the UK including easyJet, Jet2, and Ryanair, so there are a number of easy connections with flights from £36 one-way.
From Prague, it’s a two hour drive to the mountains, or you can take the regular and inexpensive bus services, changing in Trutnov, with the journey taking just under three hours in total.
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