The so-called Smugglers' Trail leads through old hardwood forests, over scree slopes and past romantic rock formations to the viewpoint with the obelisk. The ice caves themselves are closed for safety reasons.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
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Tips and suggestions
Roadbook
Follow the directions to the Hardegger Warte. The trail splits only once you reach the plateau where the path leads to Čížov. At the Keply intersection, a dirt road branches off to the left of the paved road. Following the red markings, the trail turns into a steep path—the so-called Smugglers’ Trail—which requires sturdy footwear and sure footing.
For about 3 km, the route winds through old deciduous forests, over scree slopes, and past romantic rock formations. The Thaya River comes into view repeatedly along the way. Finally, at a junction, turn left toward the lookout point with the obelisk. This spot offers one of the most beautiful views of the Thaya Valley, stretching all the way to Vranov (Frain). The ice caves themselves are closed to visitors for safety reasons.
From the last intersection, a yellow-marked trail leads to the Lesna Pavilion and reaches a paved road after 300 m. After another 3 km, you arrive in Čížov. Follow the blue-marked paved road back to the border bridge.
Památník Železné opony Čížov
Letohrádek
Public transport
Bus service to Hardegg
Parking
Parking lot near the Thaya Bridge in Hardegg
Coordinates
Book recommendation by the author
Hiking maps, trail descriptions, and information on the flora and fauna of the Thayatal National Park.
Author’s map recommendations
Thayatal National Park (Request information at the National Park Visitor Center)
Book recommendations for this region:
Equipment
Sturdy footwear
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions