To the High Stone

A shorter trip for the whole family? A leisurely 7 km route through the forest with enchanting views and landmarks is today's tip for a trip to Vysoký kámen from the village of Kostelní to Počátky. You can manage the paved path with a stroller, except for the final few meters of ascent to the lookout. However, you can leave the stroller - as well as the bike - under the rock. So come with us…
We start from the quiet picturesque village of Kostelní, approximately 7 km from Město Kraslice in Karlovarský kraj - the official page. The quietness is mainly due to the composition of mostly recreational houses, while in 1948, it had about 350 inhabitants. Like many other villages in the border area, Kostelní almost disappeared after the expulsion of the German population after World War II. On the way to our main goal, Vysoký kámen, along the yellow tourist route, we have it in the palm of our hand after a while, including its dominant feature, the church of St. Giles.

We reach the natural monument of Vysoký kámen after about 1.3 km. We are welcomed by an information board, a box for "hikers of Czechia," and above all, a view of the breathtaking rock formation covered in heather. On the highest rock tower called Vyhlídková skála (780 m above sea level), there is a viewing platform with a circular view of the Ore Mountains, Slavkovský les, and Smrčiny. The ridge of quartzite rocks ends with the rock tower Větrná skála. A legend is also associated with Vysoký kámen about a castle that somewhat resembles the shape of the rock tower. It was allegedly here before it was cursed and sank into the ground along with the entire adjacent village. Immense treasures guarded by the White Lady are allegedly hidden in the rock, to which access opens only on Good Friday. According to legend, from time to time, faint wailing of the dead and the ringing of church bells can be heard from the depths of the earth.

After refreshing and admiring the views, we continue along Hřebenovka parallel to the Stezka Českem. After half a kilometer, we are drawn to the memorial place at the chapel of the Holy Body. Its current form dates from 2017, but the chapel stood here over 200 years ago on the spot where consecrated hosts were found, stolen in 1805 from the church of St. Giles in Kostelní. Benches facing the altar invite you to stop and reflect.

We continue through the Leopoldovy Hamry Nature Park, which is known for its significant tectonic activity. This area experiences the strongest earthquake swarms in the Czech Republic, with a magnitude of up to 4.5 on the Richter scale. What will probably impress you more, though, is the all-encompassing peace, no tourists anywhere, just a herd of cows and picturesque landscape.
Soon we turn off Stezka Českem towards the village of Počátky. The village met a similar fate as Kostelní. However, in the past, this was the home of manufacturers of musical instrument parts. In 1922, 46 manufacturers produced parts for violins here. On the other hand, it’s not so surprising since nearby Kraslice is considered the cradle of musical instrument production in the Czech Republic, with string instruments being made there since the 17th century.

A little way along the empty road, and you will get to the yellow trail that will lead you back to Kostelní. If you want to shorten the route, you have the option to visit the uniquely magical chapel of the Fourteen Holy Helpers. The solitary chapel offers shade and a pleasant spiritual experience.
And that marks the end of today's trip filled with everything typical of the Ore Mountains. A landscape woven with stories…

• Print page