Orlicke Zahori – Hiking and Glassmaking History

Orlické Záhoří lies in the Divoká Orlice Valley on the Czech-Polish border, between the ridges of the Orlické Mountains and the Bystrzyckie Mountains. The mountainous landscape, trails, and history of glassmaking shape the area’s excursion options. Its location at a border crossing is also useful when planning a trip.

Trails between mountain ridges and the border region

Orlické Záhoří has a road border crossing into Poland. It can be used by pedestrians, cyclists, cars, and buses. As border-crossing regulations may change, check them before your trip.

The S Kačenkou po stopách sklářů educational trail is 15 kilometres long and runs between Deštné v Orlických horách and Orlické Záhoří. You can travel the route by car, bicycle, or on foot. Seven information boards cover the history of glassworks and glassmaking in the Orlické Mountains. The trail thus combines a route between two places with a specific historical theme.

The Bedřichovka educational trail is described as a shorter walking option, three kilometres long and rated “easy.” Its longer section runs from the Bedřichovka Nature Reserve through the Trčkovská louka Nature Reserve to the Trčkov National Nature Reserve. Trail conditions may vary; check in advance if you plan to follow this route.

The approximately seven-kilometre Horské louky Zaorlicka walk leads beyond the ridge of the Orlické Mountains into the so-called Zaorlicko, directly to the Polish state border and along the right bank of the Divoká Orlice. To choose a route, consider the different lengths and descriptions: the S Kačenkou educational trail is 15 kilometres long and intended for several modes of transport, while Horské louky Zaorlicka is described as a walk. Trail conditions and parking regulations may change; check them before your visit.

Glassmaking history and cultural attractions

The late Baroque Church of St. John the Baptist in Orlické Záhoří was built between 1754 and 1763. It houses a permanent exhibition on the history of glassmaking. Although the exhibition is permanent, local access may vary. Check access arrangements before visiting.

You can also encounter glassmaking history on the S Kačenkou po stopách sklářů educational trail: its seven boards focus on glassworks and glassmaking in the mountains. Those with a particular interest in this craft can also find a different cultural focus at the traditional international woodworking competition Kunštátský drvoštěp. Specific event dates vary from year to year; check the dates for your trip.

Nearby, on the ridge of the Orlické Mountains, stands the Kunštát Chapel at an elevation of 1,035 metres. It was rebuilt in 1868 and 1869 on the site of an earlier chapel. The brick structure has an approximately circular floor plan and a conical roof covered with shingles. The chapel thus offers a distinct architectural and historical landmark beyond the description of Orlické Záhoří itself.

Protected area and winter activities

The Ptačí oblast Orlické Záhoří is a 904-hectare Natura 2000 protected area consisting mainly of meadows and pastures. It protects the corncrake (Crex crex) and wet and spring-fed meadows as breeding habitat.

In winter, the Ski aréna Orlické Záhoří in Jadrná has a 4.6-kilometre illuminated cross-country ski trail. Its operation depends on snow and maintenance conditions. If you plan to use the trail, check operating conditions in advance.

A glimpse into school life in days gone by

The Museum výuky minulého století in Orlické Záhoří contains a restored classroom from the First Czechoslovak Republic. Children can sit at old school desks there and view historical teaching aids. As current access arrangements are not confirmed, verify access before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Janov V Orlických Horách, Kostelecké Horky, Pěčín, Synkov-Slemeno, Tutleky, Licno, Ohnišov, Nová Ves U Albrechtic.

For the broader travel overview: Okres Rychnov Nad Kněžnou.