"Czech Switzerland" rose like a phoenix from the ashes. After three years, it's back in stock, but there's one catch.

After a three-year hiatus, the famous Czech attraction is reopening to visitors. But not everyone will be able to admire this natural wonder.

Nature can be both enchanting and terrifying in its destructive potential. Those who watched with bated breath the reports of the fire in Bohemian Switzerland in the summer of 2022 learned this lesson. Today, three years later, there's good news for nature lovers and romantic hikers – Edmund Gorge is once again accessible, albeit with some exceptions.

In July 2022, the Czech Republic 's Český Švýcarsko National Park was reduced to ashes. Over a thousand hectares of forest were consumed by fire, which nearly six thousand firefighters from the Czech Republic and neighboring countries, including Poland, struggled to contain for three weeks. The largest fire in Czech history not only destroyed dozens of kilometers of greenery but also permanently closed one of the region's greatest treasures – the Edmund Gorge.

Edmund's Gorge/photo: Shutterstock

Although a 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson, the case remains unsolved. Meanwhile, nature, though damaged, has begun to regenerate. Today, its restoration process is supported by experts and a new, more cautious visitor system.

This won't be a "drop in for a quick selfie" type of trip. Entry to the gorge is limited to 50 people per day, and only with a guide . Why?

– Security work is still ongoing, and the ecosystem is very fragile – explain the Czech park authorities.

What's more, you can't buy tickets online. You have to show up in person, leave your pet and stroller behind , and prepare for a quiet boat ride across the Kamenica River for about ten minutes.

But is it worth it? Absolutely. This nearly kilometer-long trail, nestled among 150-meter-high rock formations, resembles more of a movie set than a real place. The combination of silence, water, shade, and monumental rocks makes you forget about the world. And then you want to return.

Edmund's Gorge/photo: Shutterstock

Bohemian Switzerland is not just about Edmund Gorge. This national park, covering over 79 square kilometers, also includes Mariina Skála with its fairytale viewpoint, the Falkenštejn massif , and finally—the symbol of the entire region— the Pravčická Gate . This natural rock arch, 16 meters high and over 26 meters wide, is the largest of its kind in Europe. It impresses even the most discerning aesthetes.

Mariina Skála viewpoint/photo Unsplash Ben Kupke

The return of Edmund's Gorge is great news for all lovers of nature and relaxing journeys through nature. Will you be tempted?