5 reasons to go to the Jizera Mountains in autumn
Although the warmest days of the year are behind us it would be a shame to just sit at home now. Before the weather gets colder and the walks less pleasant, recharge your batteries and boost your immunity in the mountain air. If you’re hesitant about which mountains to visit, we’ve prepared 5 reasons why you should head to the Jizera Mountains. When you stay at the Hotel Jizerka, you will enjoy the renowned cuisine in the hotel restaurant, sauna and above all the warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes our guests to come back.
1. Views of the colourful Jizera Mountains
The view of the mountain landscape glowing with warm autumn colours will warm your body almost as much as a mug of hot cocoa under a fluffy blanket. Don’t believe it? There are at least 8 lookout towers around Jizerka. We have selected 3 that are special and worth climbing. Try yourself how warm feeling you’ll get over your body and mind when seeing the goergous views of the whole Jizera landscape.
Štěpánka lookout tower
A trip to the oldest lookout tower in the Jizera Mountains is definitely one not to be missed. The magical look of the lookout tower will remind you of the famous fairy tale by the Grimm Brothers. The story about the princess Rapunzel who was imprisoned by a witch in a tower. If you don’t know the fairy tale, you have surely seen the carton movie “Tangled”. It was actually based on the original fairy tale.
The beautiful lookout tower can be found at the top of Hvězda mountain 958 m above sea level. At the top you can refresh yourself in the small kiosk or buy souvenirs to take home. And why is the tower called Štěpánka (Stephanie)? Prince Kamil Rohan was responsible for the creation of the stone neo-gothic lookout tower. He named it after Archduke Steven, who supervised the construction of the Krkonoše Trail.
Černá Studnice lookout tower
The Černá Studnice stone lookout tower is also worth a trip. It is located on a 869 m high peak from which you can see the whole Jizera Mountains and the surrounding area. Below the lookout tower you will find a restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious beer and garlic soup. If you’re travelling with children, they’ll love the large playground and the mini-zoo where they can see llamas.
Interesting fact for you: for the 160 centimetre thick wall, the builder Corazza used 3 ton granite blocks.
The lookout tower on Smrk
While you are in the Jizera Mountains, climb the highest mountain in the Jizera Mountains, Smrk, and visit the Iron Lookout Tower Smrk. It stands at an altitude of 1124 m. You will climb 91 steps to the top and from there you can see all the way to the Říp mountain. Entrance to the tower is free.
2. The Jizera chill
When the wind blows away the warm autumn, the Jizera chill will slowly creep into the mountains. The first snow is in the air, the mountains are shrouded in fog and it’s time to take out your skis. The Jizera chill is a feeling you have to experience for yourself. Then you will enjoy the evening mulled wine all the more. Get to know the Jizera Mountains in a unique atmosphere.
3. A sportsman’s paradise
Whether you prefer walking, cross-country ski or bike – the autumn Jizera Mountains are perfect for active relaxation. No crowds of tourists, just distant views, crystal clear air and you. We have highlighted the trails on the map for you. On our blog, we’ve put more details on the hikes so you know how challenging the trail is, how long is it or if it’s suitable for children. Go catch your experiences! And don’t forget to share the photo snaps from your trips with us on social media. Autumn in the mountains is a great time for photography, and even an amateur can take photos that look stunning.
4. Learn how to take professional-looking photos in the Jizera Mountains
If you want to bring back photos from the Jizera Mountains that better capture the atmosphere of the mountains, sign up for a photo course. Many professional photographers (e.g. Marián Kábele or Michal Balada) organize courses for beginners and more advanced photographers in Jizera Mountains. Don’t forget to bring your tripod, warm clothes and a desire to learn something new!
5. Focus on the Jizera Mountains
If you want to go even higher in the quality of your photos and appreciate the photographs of professionals, be sure to visit the exhibition of the photo contest “Focused on the Jizera Mountains” (Zaostřeno na Jizerky). You can find it in Liberec at the Royal Garden open until 30th October. 47 photographers entered this year’s 11th edition with 153 photographs, from which the jury selected the best 13. You can pick up the 2023 charity calendar with the winning photos on the spot. “The purpose of the competition is to present to the general public views of this beautiful mountain range through the eyes of photographers and to encourage interest in nature and its necessary conservation.” You will be supporting the projects of the Ivan Deimal Foundation for Nature Conservation.
Whether you decide to enjoy the Jizera Mountains in a relaxing or sporting way, you will not go wrong. The captivating nature of the Jizera Mountains will also be appreciated by lovers of city life. And if you don’t know where to go in the Jizera Mountains, Ondra and Martina at Jizerka will always be happy to advise you.