Activities
Cínovec and Surroundings – Exploring the Ore Mountains by Bike
Cínovec is an excellent starting point for exploring the Ore Mountains by bicycle. The mountain ridges are mostly gently sloping, making the area suitable not only for experienced cyclists but also for families with children and anyone who prefers a more leisurely ride. Along the way, you will discover typical mountain meadows, peat bogs and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Popular destinations include Bouřňák and Komáří vížka, both offering impressive views towards the Bohemian Central Highlands and the North Bohemian Basin.
You can also venture across the border, where the German side of the Ore Mountains offers an extensive network of well-maintained cycling routes. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore forest trails suitable for enduro riding, while road cyclists can challenge themselves on some of the area’s climbs, including those leading to Cínovec, Bouřňák and Komáří vížka.
The Ore Mountains Cycling Route passes directly by Hotel Pomezí. Guests also have access to secure bicycle storage, and the hotel holds the Czech “Cyclists Welcome” certification.
Summer Swimming in Cínovec and Altenberg
Hot summer days in the Ore Mountains can also be enjoyed by the water. Just a few minutes’ walk from Hotel Pomezí, you will find the natural swimming pond Dlouhý rybník, offering grassy shores and peaceful spots to relax. The pond is known for its clear water with a slightly reddish tint and its rocky bottom with red sand. Thanks to the gently sloping entrance to the water, it is also suitable for families with young children. Cínovec’s higher altitude provides a more pleasant climate even during hot summer days.
Another swimming destination is located just a few kilometres across the German border. The Kleiner Galgenteich natural swimming area in Altenberg is situated near the Raupennest complex, approximately five kilometres by car from Hotel Pomezí. In addition to swimming, it offers a slide, a water slide, boat rides and sports facilities for tennis and volleyball. Children can enjoy a playground and a paddling pool for the youngest visitors. Parking is also available at the site.
Old Martin Mine – Discover the Mining Heritage of the Ore Mountains
Head underground and discover the mining history of the Ore Mountains up close. The Old Martin Mine in Krupka is part of the historic mining landscape that was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019.
During a guided tour, you will learn how tin ore was mined in the past, which methods miners used to excavate and secure underground tunnels, and how mining techniques evolved over time. The route passes the Lukáš mineral vein with its characteristic mineral deposits. Other underground attractions include mineral formations and the so-called Spring of Happiness. The site also features exhibitions dedicated to minerals, mining history and mining technology.
The guided tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, during which visitors cover a total distance of around one kilometre there and back. A spacious car park is located opposite the mine, and an outdoor terrace is also available in good weather.
Georgenfeld High Moor Nature Reserve – A Walk Through the Peat Bog Landscape
Just a short distance from Cínovec, directly on the Czech-Saxon border, lies the Georgenfeld High Moor Nature Reserve – one of the few mountain peat bogs in the Ore Mountains that visitors can explore up close. You can reach the reserve from Hotel Pomezí with a pleasant walk of approximately 20 minutes.
A nature trail about 1.2 kilometres long leads through the reserve along wooden boardwalks, allowing you to explore this unique landscape without disturbing its sensitive ecosystem. Along the way, you will discover typical Ore Mountains vegetation, including dwarf pines, low-growing birches and numerous rare and protected plants. Particularly interesting species include the carnivorous round-leaved sundew, marsh Labrador tea and various types of heather.
The wildlife of the high moor is also fascinating. With a little luck, you may spot a common raven or a black stork visiting the area in search of food.
Pramenáč – Discover One of the Highest Peaks in the Area
Pramenáč rises to an altitude of 909 metres and is one of the highest peaks around Cínovec and Dubí. Located approximately three kilometres from Hotel Pomezí, its gentle ascent makes it a pleasant destination for a hike or a family cycling trip. You can reach the summit directly from Cínovec or from the opposite side near the Vitiška mountain lodge.
On clear days, Pramenáč offers far-reaching views of the surrounding countryside. You can see the Bohemian Central Highlands, the Giant Mountains and, in particularly good visibility, even Mount Říp. The summit is also marked by a distinctive wooden cross.
The local geology is equally interesting. Pramenáč is formed from reddish rhyolite, which appears on the surface in several places as striking rock formations. Along a forest path, you may also come across a formation resembling a “stone sun”. Although it looks like a natural curiosity, it was actually created by rock blasting during former quarrying activities.
Komáří vížka – Panoramic Views from the Ore Mountains Ridge
Komáří hůrka, better known as Komáří vížka, is one of the distinctive landmarks in the eastern Ore Mountains, standing at an altitude of 807 metres. It is a popular destination in both summer and winter, offering magnificent views of the Bohemian Central Highlands, the Doupov Mountains and, on exceptionally clear days, even the Giant Mountains.
You can reach the summit on foot, by bicycle or by taking the chairlift from Krupka-Bohosudov. The lift climbs almost 500 metres in elevation and covers more than two kilometres during an approximately 15-minute ride. Alternatively, you can drive part of the way and complete the final stretch on foot.
The site is closely connected with the region’s mining history. A bell tower once stood here, and its bell called miners from Krupka to work. Today, the observation tower is the distinctive symbol of the summit and the origin of its name, Komáří vížka, meaning “Mosquito Tower”. An educational trail also passes over the summit, introducing visitors to historic mining sites on both the Czech and Saxon sides of the Ore Mountains.
Altenberg Summer Toboggan Run – Fun for All Ages
If you would like to add a little excitement to your trip to Altenberg, try the local summer toboggan run. A lift approximately 400 metres long takes you comfortably uphill before you enjoy a descent of around one kilometre, with an elevation difference of approximately 60 metres.
The ride takes place in special sleds along a stainless-steel track, and you can control your speed using the brake. This allows you to enjoy a faster, more thrilling ride or take things at a gentler pace. The sleds can be used individually or by two people together, for example an adult with a child.
The descent takes approximately 2 to 4 minutes, making it an enjoyable activity for both children and adults.
Altenberg Treetop Adventure Park – Fun Among the Trees
Near the summer toboggan run in Altenberg, you will find a forest climbing park offering fun and a little adventure high among the treetops. The course connects 14 wooden treehouses, with a variety of climbing obstacles and challenges awaiting visitors along the way.
Thanks to the protective safety nets, traditional climbing equipment is not required. The treetop adventure park is therefore a great addition to a day trip to Altenberg, especially for families with children.
Geising Wildlife Park – Discover Animals in Nature
Located near Altenberg, Geising Wildlife Park is a nature-oriented animal park focusing mainly on wildlife native to the region. As you walk through the park, you can observe deer, mouflons, lynx, wildcats and wild boar, as well as less common animals such as Alpine chamois.
The animals live in spacious enclosures designed to resemble their natural habitats. The park is also home to goats, sheep, rabbits and guinea pigs, and visitors can even feed some of the animals.
Geising Wildlife Park is therefore a lovely destination for a relaxed day out in nature and an especially good choice for families with children.
Tiefenbach Waterfall – A Nature Stop Near Altenberg
Tiefenbach Waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls in Saxony, reaching a total height of approximately 40 metres. The water cascades down in two sections separated by a short rocky ledge. A walking trail leads to the upper part of the waterfall, where a viewpoint allows you to admire the surrounding scenery up close.
The waterfall lies along the International Mining Trail, which connects Krupka, Geising, Altenberg, Zinnwald, Cínovec and Dubí. It can be reached on foot or by bicycle and makes an interesting destination throughout the year. The atmosphere is particularly special in winter, when freezing temperatures can transform the flowing water into impressive ice formations.
Tiefenbach Waterfall is approximately a 10-minute drive from Hotel Pomezí. If you prefer to hike, allow around 30 to 60 minutes of walking, depending on your chosen route.
Kahleberg – Panoramic Views and Rocky Landscapes
Kahleberg is one of the popular viewpoints on the German side of the Ore Mountains. On clear days, the summit offers far-reaching views across the Czech and Saxon landscapes. To the west, you can see the highest peaks of the Ore Mountains – Klínovec and Fichtelberg – while to the north, you may even spot Dresden and its distinctive television tower.
Another remarkable feature of Kahleberg is its impressive rock formations made of reddish quartz porphyry. These can be seen on the southern slope, particularly around Kleiner Lugstein and Großer Lugstein. From here, beautiful views open up towards the surrounding countryside, including the Hochmoor Nature Reserve, the Bohemian Central Highlands and Mount Říp.
The combination of mountain scenery, unusual rock formations and panoramic views makes Kahleberg a wonderful destination for a hiking trip.
Raupennest Spa – Relaxation in Thermal Pools
If you feel like relaxing and enjoying some time in the water during your stay, you can visit the Raupennest spa and swimming complex in nearby Altenberg. It offers several pools with different water temperatures, a whirlpool, an outdoor pool, as well as a selection of saunas and massage treatments.
Raupennest is not a traditional water park filled with slides and water attractions. Instead, it focuses on peace, recovery and relaxation. One of the highlights is swimming in the heated outdoor pool, which can also be enjoyed during the colder months.
In winter, a visit to the spa is a wonderful way to unwind after a day on the nearby ski slopes.
Altenberg Ski Area – Winter Fun Just Across the Border
For downhill skiing, you can also head to nearby Altenberg. The Raupennesthang ski slope offers runs of varying difficulty, making it suitable for both experienced skiers and those who are just learning. A gentle beginners’ area with a magic carpet lift is available for children and newcomers to skiing.
The ski area features a ski lift, artificial snowmaking and lighting for evening skiing. Ski equipment rental and a ski school are also available nearby.
Located at an altitude of around 850 metres, Altenberg is a popular winter sports destination on the German side of the Ore Mountains.
Cross-Country Ski Trails in Cínovec and Altenberg – Kilometres of Groomed Tracks
The area around Cínovec and neighbouring Altenberg offers excellent conditions for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. On the German side of the Ore Mountains, you will find an extensive network of more than 100 kilometres of groomed trails connecting Altenberg with surrounding mountain areas and villages. Best of all, you can set off on your cross-country skiing adventure almost directly from Hotel Pomezí.
Most trails follow wide forest paths around Kahleberg and the Georgenfeld High Moor Nature Reserve. Depending on your preferences and fitness level, you can head towards Altenberg, Geising, Schellerhau, Rehefeld-Zaunhaus or Zinnwald, combining different routes along the way. The cross-border trail network also connects back to the Czech side, including routes towards Moldava and Nové Město.
Signposts at trail intersections make navigation easier. Along the routes, you will also find wooden shelters that are ideal for a short break, a snack or protection from bad weather.
