Where to enjoy the most instagrammable sunrises and sunsets
An every day, ordinary, yet such an incredible sight. Beautiful from anywhere, but from certain locations – truly unforgettable. We have compiled a list of places, some well-known, some less so, where the sunrise or sunset is a must-see! Pack your backpacks and cameras, we are off to 10 places where the dawn or passing of day will turn into a truly magical experience.
Panská skála
Panská skála, also known as “Varhany” (Pipe Organ) – its nickname coming from the basalt pipes arranged according to size – towers over the village of Prácheň, part of Kamenický Šenov. Let the huge parking lot directly below the rock not discourage you and just wait for a moment when the rock is deserted. Know that the moment when the first rays of sunlight begin to touch the pipes at the top is one you will never forget.
Jedlová
The third highest peak in the Lusatian Mountains, topped by a “crowned lookout tower” offering one of the most beautiful panoramic views in the region. In the winter months, you can plan your trip so that you can watch the sunset from the lookout tower (which is open until 6 p.m.). In summer, with the later sunset, this option is no longer available, but you can enjoy the beauty on the way or from below the lookout tower.
Střední vrch
An inconspicuous hill hidden between Prysk and Česká Kamenice that offers stunning panoramic views. From here, you can see Klíč, Hvozd, Zámecký vrch, Bohemian-Saxon Switzerland, and Grosser Winterberg. Whether you are watching the sunset, sunrise, or the sun at high noon, the magic of the moment will always surprise you. As you climb, you will be enchanted by the basalt wall that vaguely resembles dragon skin, and the steep climb to the plateau, surrounded by the amazing landscape of the Lusatian Mountains, will make the experience even more memorable. As a bonus, with a little luck, you will be completely alone here.
Luž
The highest mountain in the Lusatian Mountains is located on the Czech-German border near the village of Horní Světlá – you cannot miss it. Since 2020, there has been a viewing platform at the top, lined with porphyry, a local mineral. The views from Luž were breathtaking even before the observation tower was built, so imagine what they are like now that the viewing point is 8 meters higher! Sunrise over Hvozd, the Ještěd Ridge, the Jizera Mountains, and the Krkonoše Mountains, and sunset towards the Ore Mountains – simply unforgettable in its beauty.
Popova skála
Not far from Hrádek nad Nisou, a sandstone rock formation resembling a submarine rises above the surrounding landscape. They call it Popova skála – it is one of the largest landmarks in the Lusatian Mountains. From the top, you can see Lužice, Zittau, Turów, the Jizera Mountains, the Ještěd Ridge, Klíč, Hvozd, and Luž, as well as Strassberg and Jonsberg on the German side of the border. The adjacent sandstone crevices and caves are also a great sight to see.
Klíč
Rightfully one of the most famous local spots in terms of views, Klíč definitely stands in a category of its own. We recommend getting up early in the morning to watch the sunrise, because the view of the Lusatian Mountains, the Jizera Mountains, the Czech Central Mountains, and the Krkonoše Mountains in the light of the rising sun is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Stříbrný vrch
In Líska, not far from Česká Kamenice, there are two hills, two abandoned basalt quarries – Zlatý vrch (Golden Hill) and Stříbrný vrch (Silver Hill). Both are lesser-known versions of Panská skála. A visit to Stříbrný vrch is especially worthwhile when the sun sets and the remains of basalt pipes are shrouded in – what else – a silver robe.
Kamenický hrad
Zámecký vrch overlooks Česká Kamenice and features a wooden observation tower built into the ruins of the 15th-century castle standing at its summit. Does that sound like a romantic enough place to watch the sunset? Considering that Růžovský vrch, Děčínský Sněžník, Studenec, and Klíč can be seen in the foreground, we certainly think so!
Chřibský vrch
Between Chřibská and Křížový Buk lies the aptly named Chřibský vrch (Chřibský Hill). The thrilling journey around the forest theatre to the overgrown summit admittedly does not exactly give the vibes of a place with great views. However, just walk a few meters off the path, sit down on a rocky outcrop, and wait for the sun’s rays to shine down on Studenec. Divine peace, heavenly beauty, and a few chamois await you here.
Na Stráži
At the foot of the Na Stráži lookout tower near Sloup v Čechách, visitors can still find an old rock lookout point offering breathtaking views of the Dobranovský potok valley, Poustevna, the Medvěd rock formation, the forest theatre, and Klíč. Imagine Sloup Castle in the light of the rising sun, more magnificent than ever before. This is something you can only experience here.
