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Hiking tour Starting from Hardegg, Thaya Bridge
Start / Finish: Hardegg
Start / Finish: Hardegg
The so-called Smugglers' Trail leads through old hardwood forests, over scree slopes and past romantic rock formations to the viewpoint with the obelisk. The ice caves themselves are closed for safety reasons.
A valid travel document is required!
Sturdy footwear
Follow the directions to the Hardegger Warte. The trail splits only once you reach the plateau where the path leads to Čížov. At the Keply intersection, a dirt road branches off to the left of the paved road. Following the red markings, the trail turns into a steep path—the so-called Smugglers’ Trail—which requires sturdy footwear and sure footing.
For about 3 km, the route winds through old deciduous forests, over scree slopes, and past romantic rock formations. The Thaya River comes into view repeatedly along the way. Finally, at a junction, turn left toward the lookout point with the obelisk. This spot offers one of the most beautiful views of the Thaya Valley, stretching all the way to Vranov (Frain). The ice caves themselves are closed to visitors for safety reasons.
From the last intersection, a yellow-marked trail leads to the Lesna Pavilion and reaches a paved road after 300 m. After another 3 km, you arrive in Čížov. Follow the blue-marked paved road back to the border bridge.
Parking lot near the Thaya Bridge in Hardegg
Bus service to Hardegg
Letzte Änderung: 3 Aug 2026