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A trip to the deer and lynx enclosure
Šumava is not just about deep forests and mysterious peat bogs, but also the rich life within them. If you are looking for the perfect destination for a family walk, a trip to the deer and lynx enclosure near nearby Kvilda is an absolute must. This route leads you through easy terrain to amazing observation decks, where you will have wild nature literally in the palm of your hand.
The destination is the Šumava NP Visitor Center near Kvilda
You can set off on foot along marked hiking trails or hop on a bike. The path gradually heads south towards Kvilda and offers beautiful views of typical Šumava meadows and fens. This trip has a very friendly profile and can be easily handled by families with small children or active seniors. Plus, you won't have any worries about packing things into the car and driving.
The fascinating deer and lynx enclosure
The main goal of this trip is the Kvilda Visitor Center, which is home to two major animal attractions:
- Kingdom of Deer: The deer enclosure covers an impressive 9 hectares. An elevated wooden walkway with observation towers leads directly through it, guiding you safely above the terrain. Thanks to this, you can watch majestic stags, hinds, and fawns in their natural environment without disturbing them. The best chance to spot large herds is early in the morning or in the early evening.
- The mysterious Eurasian lynx: A little further on is the lynx enclosure. The lynx is a shy and inconspicuous predator, so seeing one in the wild is extremely rare. Here, you have a unique opportunity to admire this silent hunter up close. Keep your eyes peeled and be patient; the lynx is a master of blending in with its surroundings.
A reward in the form of a proper meal in Kvilda
Once you've had your fill of watching the animals, we recommend extending your route slightly and walking directly into the center of the village of Kvilda, which is just a short distance from the enclosures. Here you will find a renowned local bakery with a microbrewery, whose fresh cakes and pastries will quickly replenish your energy. You will also find excellent restaurants where you can reward yourself with a hearty lunch. You will then return to our guesthouse pleasantly full and brimming with beautiful experiences and photos.
Practical travel tips
To make your animal-themed trip absolutely flawless, we have prepared a few useful tips for you:
- Don't forget your binoculars: Even though you will be very close to the deer from the wooden walkway, binoculars will take your experience to a new level. If you have a camera with a good zoom, definitely don't leave it in your room.
- Clothing and silence: Šumava weather can change quickly, so choose comfortable layered clothing and sturdy footwear. Furthermore, animals are very sensitive to noise—the more quietly you behave on the walkways, the more relaxed the deer and lynx will be, and the more likely they are to come closer to you.
- Parking and signal: As our guests, your car is safely parked for free directly at our Helena Honesová guesthouse. Should anyone not staying with us be traveling with you, they can use the paid parking lot at the Kvilda Visitor Center, which fills up quickly during the season. And don't forget—mobile signal often fluctuates in the forests and around the enclosures, so it's better to download the route map in advance.
