The Krušné Hory Mountains
Welcome to the western part of the Krušné Hory Mountains. The Krušné Hory Mountains as a whole stretch over 130 km and form a natural border with Germany. The original mountain range originated in the Palaeozoic. However, its present appearance was influenced by the Alpine wrinkling in the Tertiary, when collapse and picking up along the tectonic fault (break) occurred. Intensive volcanic activity in the Tertiary period brought a rich occurrence of metal ores and healing springs. Silver, copper, cobalt, uranium… Mining took place not only in the mountains, but mainly in the foothills.
Coal mining
The Podkrušnohorský fault is the largest brown coal store in the country. Brown coal mines, sometimes “embellished” by thermal power plants, stretch from Teplice to Sokolov. Especially coal mining, electricity generation, coal gas and chemistry had devastated the Krušné Hory Mountains in the second half of the last century, but the decline in mining, desulphurisation of power plants and gentler approach to nature, fortunately, soon manifested itself. The Krušné Hory Mountains are once again green with young forests, previously endangered species of plants and animals are returning. Moreover, in comparison with the Šumava or Krkonoše forests, you will still meet only a few tourists there.
On a bike, skis, cross-country skis and on foot
In the west, the peaks of the Krušné Hory Mountains rise to steep heights and often exceed 1,000 m. It is not only the highest peak Klínovec, but for example also Špičák or Plešivec at Boží Dar. Well-marked trails go through harsh but beautiful nature and the visitor has to prepare for steep ascents. Also more experienced cyclists will find what they need. In winter, this area is ideal for lovers not only of skiing.
The most important centres of winter recreation include Klínovec, Boží Dar or Pernink. In the summer months you can visit some of the remnants of the guard castles, which originated along an important trade route connecting the Czech lands with neighbouring states, for example, Honí hrad and Hartenberg. We can also enjoy views of the surroundings from the lookout towers on the Tisovský, Blatenský and Olověný Hills.
The Blatenský moat has been preserved from the period of the mining activity boom. It is for sure worth visiting the mint in Jáchymov. Few people also know that after the discovery of radioactivity, experiments with water began in Jáchymov and soon the first radioactive spa in the world was founded there. There are unique species of flora and fauna in the local peat bogs and areas, such as Haar or the Přebuz Nature Park are protected.
The Krušné Hory Mountains are ideal for lovers of active recreation, as well as for lovers of nature or history. We hope that your wandering through the western part of the Krušné Hory Mountains will not be “krušné” (full of hardship), but on the contrary – very pleasant.
