Machov: Trails, Nature and History

Machov is a recreation, tourism and sports centre in the heart of the Broumovské stěny. International hiking, skiing and cycling routes make the town a hub for active travel plans. It also has cross-border connections, distinctive cultural landmarks and protected nature. You can therefore choose Machov for your stay based on the focus of your trip: outdoor activities, winter pursuits or local history.

Hiking between the Czech Republic and Poland

One specific destination for hikers is the yellow-marked Machov–Bledne-Skaly trail. The route is 4 km long and has an elevation gain of almost 400 metres. It runs through Czech and Polish territory; for one section, it follows the national border. In the final part, stone steps cut into the sandstone of Mount Bor lead to the entrance of the rock labyrinth. The border and a distinctive rocky section are thus part of the described route. As conditions on the trail can change, check them before setting out.

There are two tourist border crossings from Machov into Poland, open year-round. Check the conditions before travelling. This also makes the town an interesting choice if you want the border region to be part of your trip.

Church and Marian Column

The Church of St. Wenceslas (Kostel sv. Václava) stands on a prominent spur surrounded by the Židovka stream. It is located on the site of a former cemetery. The present church was built in 1675 as a Baroque replacement for an earlier wooden church dating from before 1354. Its history thus links the Baroque construction with a much older predecessor.

Machov’s square is home to the Baroque Marian Column, “Mariánský barokní sloup”. It dates from 1761 and was created by Bartoloměj Henrich. The church and the column offer different historical points of reference: the earlier wooden church is part of the church’s history, while the column’s date and creator are known.

Nature and Views

The protected small-leaved linden known as “Šrůtkova lípa” grows at house number 26. It is estimated to be more than 500 years old. Its trunk circumference is 688 cm and its height is 24 m. Its estimated age and precise measurements give the tree a distinctive profile among Machov’s natural landmarks.

The Borský hřeben offers a different landscape experience: from there, you can enjoy views of the nearby Krkonoše Mountains panorama. The ridge and the old linden represent different natural features of the town: a mountain panorama on the one hand, and a protected tree with precisely recorded measurements on the other.

Winter and Sporting Events

In winter, Machov has a large number of groomed cross-country ski trails. A ski lift also operates in Machov during the winter. Trail grooming and lift operation can vary depending on winter conditions; check the latest conditions when planning your trip.

Sporting events include the traditional “Běh na Hejšovinu” mountain race, which is part of the Czech Cup in Mountain Running. Dates and participation requirements vary. Rallye Sudety is also associated with Machov; it is a mountain bike race described as extreme. Dates and route details for this race may vary. If you want to plan your stay around a running or cycling race, check the latest dates and conditions for each event.

When choosing a hotel for your stay, you can consider Machov according to the purpose of your trip: a cross-border hike, local Baroque history and seasonal winter sports offer different focuses. Which aspects matter to you also depends on when you travel and what activities you plan.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Studnice U Náchoda, Bezděkov Nad Metují, Mezimestí, Kramolna, Žernov U České Skalice, Suchý Důl, Zábrodí, Žďár Nad Metují.

For the broader travel overview: Okres Náchod.