When a ladder becomes your only friend, you know you are in the heart of Bohemian Switzerland. While most tourists flock to the famous “big” arch, Malá Pravčická brána (the Small Pravčice Gate) and the nearby Šaunštejn Castle (also known as the Robber’s Castle) offer a far more visceral experience. If you have a fear of heights, these two landmarks will test your resolve. Forget comfortable staircases; here, you scramble up narrow iron ladders wedged directly into vertical rock fissures.
We still remember that feeling—the cold metal in our palms, the void beneath our feet, and the absolute focus on every single step. It is vertical shock therapy. Since the 2022 forest fire, the views from the top have become even more surreal, revealing grey, skeletal slopes where a dense, impenetrable forest once stood. Up here, you are truly the kings of the sandstone.
Malá Pravčická brána
The Humble Sister You Can Actually Touch
We reached the arch on our bikes, huffing and sweating after a short but sharp ascent. Malá Pravčická brána stands just a stone’s throw from Šaunštejn. Compared to its world-famous larger sister, it has one massive advantage: you can legally walk right across it. It is the perfect spot to sit on the warm sandstone and simply stare into the valley.
There are no barriers, no entry fees—just pure contact with the stone. It is a place for a quiet snack, while down at the “big” gate, crowds are likely standing in line for a beer.
Šaunštejn Castle: Bizarre Life on a Rock Needle
Šaunštejn Castle was the ultimate test for our “pub fitness.” We had to wonder—would we even fit through the narrow ladder gaps? With a bit of effort and some strategic breathing, we made it. Šaunštejn was never a castle in the traditional sense; it was a sophisticated fortification system built atop massive rock blocks.
In the 14th century, robber knights lived here in wooden structures anchored into grooves carved directly into the stone—grooves you can still see today. Imagine the logistics of hauling food, water, and wine up here without the luxury of modern ladders. It was a life on the edge in every sense of the word.
📌 Practical Tips: Ladders and Rocks
The ascent involves steep, vertical ladders and is not suitable for small children or anyone with a paralyzing fear of heights. However, for older, sure-footed children, it is a life-changing adventure. Always check the weather first; frozen or wet ladders are a dangerous trap.
No. Unlike the main Pravčická brána, entry to both the Small Gate and Šaunštejn Castle is completely free and accessible year-round.
The path from Vysoká Lípa is forest-based and sandy. You can reach the base of the rock with an MTB or a sturdy off-road stroller, but the final ascent is only possible with your hands free and a good grip.
