Most travelers visiting the Czech Republic (or Czechia) only make time for Prague. While the capital is stunning, the country has so much more to offer—like the Beskid Mountains. Known as Beskydy in Czech, this mountain range in the Moravian-Silesian region combines hiking trails, cultural heritage, history, outdoor adventures, and even spa indulgences. Best of all, it’s still relatively undiscovered by international tourists, yet remains a favorite holiday destination for locals.
Places to See and Things to Do in and around the Beskydy Mountains:
Ostrava
The capital of the Moravian-Silesian region, Ostrava, is the main gateway to the Beskid Mountains. Unlike Prague or Brno, Ostrava hasn’t been polished for mass tourism. Its industrial past gives the city a completely different vibe, making it worth a visit if you want to see another side of Czechia.
The highlight is Lower Vítkovice, a former coal mine and steel plant turned national heritage site. Today it houses museums, a concert hall, and even an observation tower. While Ostrava may not be a dream destination for nature lovers like me, it was fascinating to explore its industrial history before heading into the mountains.
Sigmund Freud’s Birth House
From Ostrava, make your way to Příbor, the birthplace of Sigmund Freud. The father of psychoanalysis was born here in 1856, and his childhood home is now a museum with an interactive exhibition. Open year-round, the museum uses an audio guide to take you through the most important milestones of Freud’s life and career.
Town of Hats, Nový Jičín
Nový Jičín, also known as the Town of Hats, is a charming little gem. Its historic center, Masaryk Square, is lined with pastel-colored houses, fountains, and cobblestone streets, making it an ideal stop for a leisurely stroll.
The town’s main attraction is the Hat Museum, where you can learn about the traditional hat-making process, try on different types of hats, and snap some fun photos. Hat-making has been part of Nový Jičín’s identity for centuries, and while production has slowed, the town proudly preserves its craft.
Within the same building, you’ll also find the General Laudon Exhibition, which showcases the life of Austrian Field Marshal Ernst Gideon von Laudon, a celebrated military leader of the 18th century.
The Town of Štramberk
Štramberk is a picturesque mountain town with a very special landmark—the ruins of a 13th-century castle and the Trúba Tower, now a lookout offering sweeping 360-degree views of the town and surrounding hills.
Štramberk is also famous for its Štramberk ears (Štramberské uši), cone-shaped gingerbread cookies flavored with honey and spices. They’re a local delicacy, though unfortunately not vegan!
Another highlight is the Šipka Cave, an important archaeological site. In 1880, Professor Karl Jaroslav Maška discovered a Neanderthal child’s lower jawbone here—the first evidence of prehistoric human presence in Czechia. The short hike up to the cave rewards you not only with history but also with stunning views of the town below.
📍 Stay the night at Hotel Štramberk if you want to enjoy the town’s fairytale atmosphere longer. Book Hotel Štramberk
Prosper Golf Resort in Čeladná
For something completely different, head to Prosper Golf Resort in Čeladná. The resort boasts two full 18-hole courses, indoor simulators, a heated winter hall, and a scenic restaurant with water views.
No membership is required, so you can easily book a tee time online. Beginners can even sign up for lessons at the on-site golf academy. Even if you’re not into golf, it’s worth visiting just for the location—surrounded by stunning mountains and peaceful countryside.
Hiking up to Lysá Hora
The absolute highlight of my trip was hiking to Lysá Hora (1,323 m), the highest peak on the Czech side of the Beskid Mountains.
The Beskids themselves stretch across four countries—Czechia, Slovakia, Poland, and Ukraine—with the highest point found in Ukraine. Still, Lysá Hora is considered the “queen” of the Czech Beskids. Its name literally translates to Bald Mountain, and it’s beloved by Czech hikers for its panoramic views, fresh air, and year-round accessibility.
The trail is moderately easy and takes around two hours to climb. Be mindful of loose rocks, especially on the way down.
My tip: hike up in the afternoon, watch the sunset from the summit, and stay overnight at the Chata Emil Zátopek – Maraton mountain lodge. Named after the legendary Czech Olympic runner, the lodge has cozy rooms, a restaurant serving hearty meals, and even a bowling alley! If you can, wake up early to catch the sunrise before heading back down—it’s magical.
Book the mountain log cabin: Chata Emil Zatopek – Maraton
The Spa at Miura Hotel
After hiking, nothing feels better than relaxing at a spa—and the Miura Hotel, located near Prosper Golf Resort, is the ultimate place to do it.
The hotel itself is an architectural masterpiece, blending sleek modern design with contemporary art installations throughout its spaces.
The spa is equally impressive, offering two main sections: a water zone with a large hot tub, and a sauna zone featuring herb baths, salt rooms, steam rooms, a sanarium, Finnish sauna, ice rain, and even a snow room.
Dining here is just as memorable. I enjoyed a three-course vegan menu, including a creamy vegetable soup with coconut milk, a chickpea burger with mashed potatoes, and black rice with fresh berries. Each dish was creative, flavorful, and beautifully presented.
3 comments
Hi Gabriela, nice of you to feature other parts of Czech Republic. This place is just amazing!
I loved this area in the Czech Republic, so beautiful! And no other tourists there!
Thanks for sharing this amazing blog. I really impressed by reading your blog.