Discover Bozkov: Pilgrimage Site, Caves and Trails

Bozkov combines spiritual history, impressive landscapes and marked trails to create a destination offering many different discoveries. The town is one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in Bohemia and Moravia. When approaching from Semily, the Sejkorská Chapel is the first Bozkov landmark; it became a pilgrimage site. The Masarykova Lookout also offers far-reaching views across the surrounding area: From here, you can see Kozákov, Bozkov and part of the Krkonoše Mountains.

A pilgrimage site with a living history

One of the special religious sites is the Church of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary in Bozkov. It was built in 1693, while the foundation stone had already been laid and consecrated on September 23, 1690. Its tower is 49 metres high and open to the public. Another stop is the U Matičky Chapel. It was built in 1900 at a site where a spring had flowed since time immemorial and was believed to have healing powers. A statue of the Virgin Mary was moved there from the disused cemetery chapel.

Secular memorial sites are also part of the townscape. A memorial plaque on house number 100 commemorates the birthplace of the priest, writer and Czech National Revival figure Josef Alois Kouble. Dřevěnka was added to the list of cultural monuments in 2011. Those interested in regional architectural styles will find not only natural beauty in the valley of the Vošmenda stream, but also examples of folk architecture, including a former mill and houses that have retained their original character.

Dolomite caves and landscape experiences

A prominent natural attraction is the Bozkov Dolomite Caves. They were declared a national natural monument in 1999. The Jezerní Dóm contains the largest underground lake in the Czech Republic. The caves are open to the public as part of guided tours. This type of visit is an integral part of planning if you want to explore the underground spaces and the lake.

The caves can also be combined with a hike. From the Palacký Trail, you can reach them via a blue-marked turnoff, then continue to Bozkov and return to the trail via a green-marked route. The Palacký Trail is 20.5 kilometres long and runs from Tanvald to Podspálov. Its fixed length provides clear guidance for planning your own day, without having to consider the cave tour and the rest of the route separately.

Hiking and cycling around Bozkov

Marked hiking trails lead from Bozkov to Semily, Vysoké nad Jizerou, Bohuňovsko and Jesenný. This leaves several directions open for further exploration. Cycle Route 1074 from Semily to Vysoké nad Jizerou also passes through Bozkov. If you are looking for accommodation in Bozkov, you can therefore decide whether pilgrimage history and cultural monuments, a guided tour of the dolomite caves, or trails for walking and cycling are the main focus of your stay.

More destinations for planning your trip

To compare other places, you can also view Roztoky U Semil, Chutnovka, Bradlecka Lhota, Jablonec Nad Jizerou, Rychlov, Loukov Nad Jizerou, Horni Branna and Troskovice.

For the higher-level travel overview: Semily District.