On the Teplá Vltava, two canoeing sections differ in season, length and stated difficulty. Horní Vltavice adds a local ski area, hiking trails, geological formations and local history to the river theme. The time of year is therefore an important first filter when choosing activities; nature and culture offer additional areas of interest.

On the water: two seasonal windows

In spring, the Teplá Vltava can be paddled by canoe along a 13 km section from Borová Lada to Horní Vltavice; its difficulty is rated WW I–II. Another section runs from Horní Vltavice to Lenora: it is navigable in the summer months too, is 7 km long and is rated ZW C. The summer route is therefore 6 km shorter than the spring route; the stated difficulty ratings also differ. For both sections, check current water levels and national park rules before planning a trip.

Trails and rock formations

Hiking trails lead from Horní Vltavice to Boubínský prales. Check trail conditions before setting out. At Jilmová skála, periglacial weathering processes have formed frost cliffs, tors and rock walls. Jilmová skála is accessible via a walkable hiking trail, which lies more than 250 m from the road. The two destinations offer different points of interest: at Boubínský prales, hiking trails lead to the destination, while Jilmová skála’s geological formations and described trail access help with planning.

Winter sports in town

The municipal ski area “Nad Kovárnou” is located right in Horní Vltavice and has three ski lifts. It includes a small snow park with natural and artificial obstacles. This makes winter activities available right in town. As it is a seasonal facility, check current operating status before visiting.

Local history and culture

The Church of the Virgin Mary, St. Joseph and St. John of Nepomuk was created from 1724 onward by rebuilding an earlier chapel. The bridge over the Vltava in Horní Vltavice was declared a technical cultural monument in 1987. The two buildings point to different historical aspects: the church centers on the rebuilding of an earlier chapel, while the bridge’s significance lies in its later designation as a technical cultural monument. There is also an information center in Horní Vltavice.

Further regional context

In the wider region around Horní Vltavice, sections of the Schwarzenberský plavební kanál have been reconstructed. Demonstrations of timber floating are held on these sections several times a year. The complex comprising Schwarzenberský plavební kanál, Kaplický potok and Vchynicko-Tetovský kanál is a national cultural monument. If you would like to include the demonstrations in your stay, check the event dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Nebahovy, Řasnice, Chlumany, Vimperk, Repesin, Buk Pod Boubínem, Nová Pec, Trhonin.

For the overview of the wider region: Okres Prachatice.