Czech Republic Guide
North Bohemia
České Švýcarsko
The area of sandstone rocks around Děčín is popularly known as České Švýcarsko (Bohemian Switzerland), a nickname coined by artists of the Romantic movement, though the landscape is in fact far from alpine. The River Labe drives a deep wedge into the geographical defences of Bohemia, forging a grand valley through the dense forests, interrupted by outcrops of sandstone rock welded into truly fantastic shapes. While it has always been a popular spot for weekend recreation, it was only in 2000 that a small portion of České Švýcarsko ( 
www.ceskesvycarsko.cz ) was officially designated a national park, the Národní Park České Švýcarsko ( www.npcs.cz ), and while the park certainly contains some of the most precious natural treasures of the region, the entire area surrounding Děčín is greatly appealing.