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A magical place in Šumava, where a Czech river is born
The Vltava springs are one of the most visited and symbolic places in the Šumava National Park. This picturesque and peaceful place, where the longest Czech river was born, is an excellent destination for a day trip. If you are looking for a connection with nature, tranquillity and moderate physical exercise, a trip to the Vltava Springs is an ideal choice.
What are the Vltava Springs?
The headwaters of the Vltava are not the only point where the Vltava River originates - it is a system of springs that make up the so-called Czech Vltava. The main spring is located below the Černá hora mountain (1315 m above sea level), at an altitude of about 1172 metres. The site is arranged in the form of a small stone spring, surrounded by benches and information boards.
However, the true hydrological source of the Vltava lies a few kilometres away - the Teplá Vltava is only one of the sources, the main tributary being the Vltava Stream, which rises not far from Borová Lada. However, the sources of the Vltava in Šumava are considered the official symbolic source.
Why visit Vltava Springs?
1. Symbolism and history
The Vltava is the longest river in the Czech Republic and the source of its “Šumava soul” has a deep meaning. The place was already developed for tourism during the Austro-Hungarian Empire and in the past there was also a memorial plaque of Emperor Franz Joseph I. The silence that reigns here is a reminder of the power of nature and of times past.
2. Enchanting nature of Šumava
The route to the Vltava Springs leads through peat bogs, mountain meadows, spruce forests and views of the surrounding Sumava peaks such as Boubín, Černá hora or Luzný. You will often see wildlife - deer, roe deer, foxes or rare birds.
3. Quiet and few tourists
Unlike busier places like Lipno or Černá jezero, the Vltava Springs are relatively quiet - especially outside the high season.
4. Ideal for families and cyclists
The route to the Vltava Springs is easy, accessible even for more able-bodied children. Cyclists can use the asphalt road from Kvilda or Bučina.
Trip to the Vltava Springs from Horská Kvilda
Basic information:
Start: Pension Helena Honesová, Horská Kvilda
Length of the route: approx. 12.1 km
Time: 3.5 - 4 hours walking (1 hour cycling)
Suitable for: hikers, families with children, cyclists
Route description:
Start at the Helena Honesová Guesthouse - you start after cycle path no. 331 from Horská Kvilda to Kvilda.
After approx. 6.5 km at the end of Kvilda you will join the cycle path no. 1041which will take you through the beautiful Šumava plains and forest path to the Vltava Springs.
You can choose the same route back or you can make it more interesting by returning via Bučina, where you can stop at the Hotel Alpská vyhlídka for refreshments.
Travel tips:
Footwear: sturdy hiking boots, some of the trail may be wet or muddy.
Refreshments: take plenty of water in summer, refreshments are available in Modrava.
Nature: Always follow the marked trails - this is a protected area of the Šumava National Park.
