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TOP LOOKOUT POINTS

Enjoy a walk through the pristine nature of Karlovy Vary, where the paths lead not only left and right but also up and down. Once you reach the desired summit, you’ll be rewarded with a unique view of the entire valley.

Více

Walk along the most beautiful viewpoints

3 km | more challenging with a stroller – strong arms needed to carry it down the stairs at Jelení skok

From each viewpoint you’ll enjoy a breathtaking, yet always different, panorama of the historic town center. You can even visit them all in a single walk. From the Grandhotel Pupp, take the funicular up to the Diana Observation Tower, where you’ll also find the Butterfly House and a mini zoo.

From there, head downhill along the blue trail to the junction below Diana, then continue on the yellow trail along the contour to the Jelení Skok Restaurant, which offers views of the opposite side of Karlovy Vary. Behind the restaurant you’ll discover the Petrova Viewpoint and, a bit lower, the scenic pavilion Mayer’s Gloriet.

Continue descending to the Jelení Skok viewpoint and then back into Karlovy Vary. You can finish your walk at the Vřídlo hot spring.

Lookouts and observation towers
Diana Observation Tower

Diana Observation Tower

The youngest and at the same time the best known observation tower in Karlovy Vary was built according to the design of local architect Anton Breinl between the years 1912 and 1914. The tower offers an unobstructed panoramic view of practically the entire city, the valleys of the Ohře and Teplá Rivers, as well as of the major part of the spa woods, the Ore Mountains with their highest peak Klínovec, the Doupov Mountains, and the Slavkov Forest. Under good visibility conditions, you may see the tops of the Smrčiny Mountains located 70 kilometres away in the west-south-west direction. The observation tower is accessible to the public during opening hours and the Diana funicular leads to it.
Lookouts and observation towers
Peter's Height Lookout

Peter's Height Lookout

The lookout on the rock outcrop on Petrova výšina (Peter's Height) above Jelení skok (Deer Jump) has been accessible since the 18th century. In 1712, Russian Tsar Peter the Great made a bet and rode up to the top of the hill on a horse without a saddle. The present-day lookout gallery offers a magnificent view of the spa centre of Karlovy Vary and the picturesque valley of the Teplá River with the surrounding hills. Freely accessible all year round, the lookout is a popular destination of the spa guests during their walks.
Lookouts and observation towers
Deer Jump Lookout

Deer Jump Lookout

The wooden arbour on a rock bill near Jelení skok (Deer Jump) above the spa centre is probably the oldest lookout structure in Karlovy Vary. The building of the arbour was funded by Mr. Mayer, a wealthy Viennese merchant and a Karlsbad native, in 1804. The lookout offers an unprecedented bird's eye view of the spa centre and the picturesque valley of the Teplá River spreading before you. The lookout arbour is freely accessible all year round and it is a popular destination of the spa guests during their walks to Petrova výšina (Peter's Height).
Gazebos and Arbours in Karlovy
Mayer’s Gloriette

Mayer’s Gloriette

The wooden lookout gazebo known as Mayer’s Gloriette was built in 1804 by Mr. Mayer, a wealthy Viennese merchant and Karlsbad native, on a rock at Jelení skok directly above the spa centre. Freely accessible all year round, the gazebo offering a spectacular view of the town centre in the picturesque valley of the Teplá River has become a sought after resting spot of spa guests on their way to Petrova výšina (Peter’s Height).
Excursion
Museums and galleries
Karlovy Vary Butterfly House

Karlovy Vary Butterfly House

Be prepared to see the most beautiful butterflies from around the world – e.g. from Thailand, the Philippines, or from the rainforests of South America or Mexico.In the so-called flight zone that has an area of 100 m2, you will see hundreds of exotic butterflies, some with a wingspan of up to 20 cm! You will be able to observe these beauties of the animal kingdom up close and in unlimited contact – no barriers between visitors and the butterflies can be found here. Photography is not restricted or charged in any way in the Butterfly House. So always have your camera ready in case that a “flying gemstone” chooses your shoulder for landing and a short rest. Be sure to also stop by the incubator – with a little luck, you can be an eyewitness to the hatching of a butterfly from its cocoon and see its first flight in life. Information signs are set all around the flight zone, providing interesting facts from the lives of butterflies, and you can purchase souvenirs, offered with only butterfly motifs, in the reception area. Reception Desk of the Butterfly House:+420 777 774 050https://dianakv.cz/en/butterfly-houseWe accept only cash payments in CZK and EUR.Opening HoursOpen 7 days a week, including national holidaysNovember to March10 am – 5 pmApril and October10 am – 6 pmMay to September10 am – 7 pm24.12.CLOSED

Diana Lookout Tower

Great Family Trip

The most famous Karlovy Vary lookout tower with panoramic views of the city and its surroundings stands on the Friendship Height and is easily reached by funicular from the Grandhotel Pupp. The summit has been known for its vistas since the 19th century, and the observation tower has stood here since 1914. You can reach the top by elevator or about 150 steps.

Next to the tower you’ll also find the Butterfly House, a mini zoo, a children’s playground, a historic restaurant, and a snack and souvenir stand. Entry to the tower, the mini zoo, and the playground is free.

Lookouts and observation towers
Diana Observation Tower

Diana Observation Tower

The youngest and at the same time the best known observation tower in Karlovy Vary was built according to the design of local architect Anton Breinl between the years 1912 and 1914. The tower offers an unobstructed panoramic view of practically the entire city, the valleys of the Ohře and Teplá Rivers, as well as of the major part of the spa woods, the Ore Mountains with their highest peak Klínovec, the Doupov Mountains, and the Slavkov Forest. Under good visibility conditions, you may see the tops of the Smrčiny Mountains located 70 kilometres away in the west-south-west direction. The observation tower is accessible to the public during opening hours and the Diana funicular leads to it.
Museums, Galleries, Exhibitions
Butterfly House Papilonia Karlovy Vary

Butterfly House Papilonia Karlovy Vary

A tropical garden with live, exotic butterflies from around the world.Be prepared to see the most beautiful butterflies from around the world – e.g. from Thailand, the Philippines, or from the rainforests of South America or Mexico.In the so-called flight zone that has an area of 100 m2, you will see hundreds of exotic butterflies, some with a wingspan of up to 20 cm! You will be able to observe these beauties of the animal kingdom up close and in unlimited contact – no barriers between visitors and the butterflies can be found here. Photography is not restricted or charged in any way in the Butterfly House. So always have your camera ready in case that a “flying gemstone” chooses your shoulder for landing and a short rest. Be sure to also stop by the incubator – with a little luck, you can be an eyewitness to the hatching of a butterfly from its cocoon and see its first flight in life. Information signs are set all around the flight zone, providing interesting facts from the lives of butterflies, and you can purchase souvenirs, offered with only butterfly motifs, in the reception area.Opening HoursOpen 7 days a week, including national holidaysNovember to March10 am – 5 pmApril and October10 am – 6 pmMay to September10 am – 7 pmCLOSED on 24th December

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Petrova Viewpoint & Mayer’s Gloriet

Dvě vyhlídky jednou ranou

The rocky promontory is named after Tsar Peter I, who is said to have climbed it on November 11, 1712, and carved his initials into a wooden cross. From the viewpoint you can enjoy a panorama of almost the entire spa district.

A little lower you will find what is likely the oldest lookout structure in the area, the wooden pavilion known as Mayer’s Gloriet, which was built in 1804 by Karlovy Vary native and wealthy merchant Mayer on a rocky outcrop near Jelení Skok directly above the spa center of the town.

Lookouts and observation towers
Peter's Height Lookout

Peter's Height Lookout

The lookout on the rock outcrop on Petrova výšina (Peter's Height) above Jelení skok (Deer Jump) has been accessible since the 18th century. In 1712, Russian Tsar Peter the Great made a bet and rode up to the top of the hill on a horse without a saddle. The present-day lookout gallery offers a magnificent view of the spa centre of Karlovy Vary and the picturesque valley of the Teplá River with the surrounding hills. Freely accessible all year round, the lookout is a popular destination of the spa guests during their walks.
Gazebos and Arbours in Karlovy
Mayer’s Gloriette

Mayer’s Gloriette

The wooden lookout gazebo known as Mayer’s Gloriette was built in 1804 by Mr. Mayer, a wealthy Viennese merchant and Karlsbad native, on a rock at Jelení skok directly above the spa centre. Freely accessible all year round, the gazebo offering a spectacular view of the town centre in the picturesque valley of the Teplá River has become a sought after resting spot of spa guests on their way to Petrova výšina (Peter’s Height).
Lookouts and observation towers
Deer Jump Lookout

Deer Jump Lookout

The wooden arbour on a rock bill near Jelení skok (Deer Jump) above the spa centre is probably the oldest lookout structure in Karlovy Vary. The building of the arbour was funded by Mr. Mayer, a wealthy Viennese merchant and a Karlsbad native, in 1804. The lookout offers an unprecedented bird's eye view of the spa centre and the picturesque valley of the Teplá River spreading before you. The lookout arbour is freely accessible all year round and it is a popular destination of the spa guests during their walks to Petrova výšina (Peter's Height).

Goethe's Lookout

Lookout tower with a ghost trail for children

The observation tower is located on a hill opposite the Diana Tower. It is 32 meters tall and designed in the style of Nordic brick Neo-Gothic architecture.

The idea for its construction came from Belgian Princess Stephanie, who was captivated by the view—just as the famous writer Goethe had been several decades earlier, after whom the viewpoint is named.

This lesser-known lookout is a peaceful spot with magnificent views of Karlovy Vary and the surrounding area. Around the tower you’ll also find a newly created, roughly three-kilometer-long “Haunted Trail.”

Lookouts and observation towers
Goethe's Lookout

Goethe's Lookout

The ostentatious Pseudo-Gothic structure of the stylish restaurant for excursionists resembling a romantic castle with a monumental lookout tower was built according to the design of renowned Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer between the years 1888 and 1889. The lookout tower offers a breathtaking view of the spa, the Ore Mountains with their highest peak Klínovec, the Doupov Mountains, the Slavkov Forest and the Teplá Highlands. Unfortunately, the restaurant has been closed for several years and the lookout tower is not accessible to the public. Nonetheless, the charming structure seated amidst the serene spa woods is definitely worth visiting.
For kids
Spooky Trail

Spooky Trail

In recent years, the Spa Forests of Karlovy Vary, p.o., have carried out a number of large and small Czech-Bavarian projects. Thanks to positive references and experience, cooperation was established with the German town of Goldkronach on the theme of the “Forest of Ghosts.” Drawing on Czech and German inspirations (natural heritage, legends, etc.), new forest creatures were created, illustrated for the Karlovy Vary trail by pupils of the Language Primary School Karlovy Vary.The trail is about 2 km long and features 20 ghosts.

Three Crosses Lookout & Camera obscura

Two views in one shot

An ideal spot to watch the sunset over the city. From the Tři kříže (Three Crosses) lookout pavilion you can admire Karlovy Vary from the eastern side. The viewpoint is named after the three large wooden crosses erected here in the 17th century as a symbol of the city’s re-Catholicization after the Battle of White Mountain.

On the platform of the former Rudolfova Height below the Three Crosses once stood the excursion restaurant and café “U Tří křížů.” In its garden was the original wooden Camera Obscura pavilion, where light images of the landscape were projected onto the walls of the darkened interior.

The current pavilion was built in 1997 after the original was destroyed during a strong windstorm.

Lookouts and observation towers
Three Crosses Lookout

Three Crosses Lookout

The simple wooden lookout arbour was built on the plane by the Three Crosses in the year 2000 and rebuilt in 2006 according to the design of architect Ivan Štros. The lookout offers a beautiful view of the spa centre with the Hot Spring, the picturesque valley of the Teplá River with the surrounding hills and spa woods, as well as of the Slavkov Forest. Freely accessible all year round, the lookout arbour is a popular destination of the spa guests during their walks.
Lookouts and observation towers
Camera Obscura Lookout

Camera Obscura Lookout

The wooden lookout arbour was built on a plane below Tři kříže (Three Crosses) in 1997. It stands on the site where the original Camera Obscura arbour had stood before it was destroyed by a strong windstorm in 1990. The lookout offers a marvellous view of almost the entire spa centre with the valley of the Teplá River, and of a large part of the city. The lookout arbour is freely accessible all year round and it is a popular destination of the spa guests during their walks to the Three Crosses.
Gazebos and Arbours in Karlovy
Camera Obscura Arbour

Camera Obscura Arbour

The wooden lookout arbour was built on a plane below Tři kříže (Three Crosses) in 1997. It stands on the site where the original Camera Obscura arbour had stood before it was destroyed by a strong windstorm in 1990. The lookout offers a marvellous view of almost the entire spa centre with the valley of the Teplá River, and of a large part of the city. The lookout arbour is freely accessible all year round and it is a popular destination of the spa guests during their walks to the Three Crosses.

Lookout of Charles IV

The Oldest Stone Lookout Tower in Karlovy Vary

The pseudo-Gothic brick observation tower in the shape of a minaret with two viewing galleries was a popular lookout spot at the end of the 19th century. The tower originally bore the name Emperor Franz Joseph’s Viewpoint and was opened to visitors during the 1877 spa season.

The tower also served as a pavilion and immediately after its opening attracted great interest from spa guests. Fireworks were launched from the tower’s first gallery during various celebrations.

Lookout of Charles IV.