To the Southernmost Point of the Czech Republic
The unique route from Vyšší Brod to the southernmost point of the Czech Republic not only allows you to visit the country’s southernmost spot, but also leads through areas that were inaccessible for decades due to the Iron Curtain. Today, cross-border cooperation flourishes here, with tourist projects on both sides of the border connected.
Total length
The hike from Vyšší Brod is not technically difficult, but it requires good endurance due to its length. There are several return route options. If you choose the route via Austria, Martínkov (the new border station in Mnichovice), and Maria Rast, you will cover almost 25 kilometers in total.
Route description
A narrow path leads you to the border marker II/64 – the exact location of the southernmost point of the Czech Republic. The area features a rest area and a prominent commemorative stone. You can even stamp a unique visitor’s seal here as proof of your journey.
Interesting places on the route
Along the way, you will pass the Vyšší Brod Pass, which separates the Bohemian Forest from the Novohradské Mountains. Beyond this natural border, the first majestic peaks of the Bohemian Forest rise, including the Hradiště Mountain (937 m). A great resting spot is the dam at Studánecký Pond.
Just across the border, you will notice a massive earthwork with wooden palisades – the so-called Swedish Schanzen (fortifications). These were built to protect the salt trade route that passed through this area. In 1641, the owner of the local estate, Konrad Balthasar von Starhemberg, constructed these fortifications. The Imperial army was stationed here three times: from 1641 to 1648 to defend against Swedish raids, in 1663 due to the Turkish invasion threat, and in 1680–1681 to maintain order during the plague epidemic. A short educational trail now runs around the remaining ramparts.
