Štěpánka Viewing Tower

Štěpánka is the oldest viewing tower in the Jizera Mountains and one of the defining landmarks of the Kořenov area. This stone, neo-Gothic tower stands on Hvězda Hill at an elevation of 959 metres, providing magnificent views of the Jizera and Karkonosze mountains. On clear days, in fact, the view stretches far across North Bohemia.

Prince Camille Rohan began construction back in 1847, although it took more than the next 40 years to complete the tower. Now, though, this popular destination is easy to reach on foot or by bike - once you've dealt with the steady climb to the village of Příchovice, the final stretch to Štěpánka is a breeze. The tower attracts visitors for its history and mountain charm and for its year-round cultural and open-air events, with the traditional New Year's Day Climb a local favourite. In winter, the area is criss-crossed by a well-maintained network of cross-country skiing tracks.

• Altitude: 959 m (Hvězda Hill)

• Type: Stone neo-Gothic viewing tower (completed in 1892)

• Access: On foot / by bike / on cross-country skis in winter

• Difficulty: Medium

• Views: Jizera Mountains, Karkonosze Mountains, Tanvaldský Špičák, and surrounding peaks

• Facilities: Hiking trails, refreshments available nearby

• Ideal for: Families with children, hikers, cyclists, day trippers, and short walks

• Fascinating fact: One of the oldest viewing towers in Czechia. It hosts regular cultural events, including the popular New Year's Day Climb, and is surrounded by treated cross-country skiing tracks in winter.