Machov

Machov in the heart of the Broumov Walls

Machov is a recreational, tourism and sports centre in the heart of the Broumov Walls. At the same time, the town is a hub for international hiking, skiing and cycling routes. Machov thus combines experiences in nature, cross-border trails, historical details of the town and seasonal sports activities.

Across the border on the Machov–Bledne-Skaly Trail

One of the most distinctive experiences is the yellow-marked Machov–Bledne-Skaly Trail. The route is 4 km long and has an elevation gain of almost 400 metres. It crosses the state border into Poland and runs through both Czech and Polish territory. In the final section, stone steps carved into the sandstone of Mount Bor lead to the entrance of the rock labyrinth. The trail therefore combines a clearly described hiking route with a crossing between two countries and a distinctive geological destination.

The border also plays a visible role beyond this trail: Machov has two tourist border crossings into Poland, which operate year-round. This gives you another point of reference if you would like to combine your stay with hikes, cycling routes and discoveries near the border.

A Church, Marian Column and a Very Old Linden Tree

Several historical details stand side by side in the townscape. The Church of Saint Wenceslas, Kostel sv. Václava in Czech, was built in 1675 as a Baroque replacement for an earlier wooden church dating from before 1354. The church stands on a prominent spur surrounded by the Židovka stream, on the site of a former cemetery. Its location also makes the church a notable reference point within the town’s history.

The square in Machov is home to the Baroque Marian Column, “Mariánský barokní sloup”. It dates from 1761 and was created by Bartoloměj Henrich. A completely different accent is provided by the protected small-leaved lime tree known as the memorial “Šrůtkova lípa” near house number 26. Its age is estimated at more than 500 years; its trunk circumference is 688 cm and its height is 24 m. Such specific local details give a walk through Machov a historical and landscape connection without requiring a major tourist attraction.

Seasons Between Cross-Country Skiing and a Mountain Bike Marathon

The landscape can be actively enjoyed in different seasons. Borský hřeben offers a view of the nearby panorama of the Giant Mountains, Krkonoše in Czech. In winter, Machov has a large number of groomed cross-country ski trails; a ski lift is also in operation during the winter. Those who choose the town in the cold season will therefore find both ski trails and another documented winter sports option.

For summer and the transitional seasons, cycling and running traditions take centre stage. The “Běh na Hejšovinu” is a traditional mountain race and part of the Czech Mountain Running Cup. Rallye Sudety is a mountain-bike marathon, or mountain-bike race, described as extreme in connection with Machov. These two events represent different ways of experiencing the mountainous landscape through sport: once at a run, once on a mountain bike.

More Destinations for Orientation

For your further search, you can also explore Rožnov, Česká Metuje, Křinice, Velký Třebešov, Police Nad Metují, Machovska Lhota, Mezimestí and Starkov as well.

For the higher-level travel overview: Náchod District.