Safe Travel Europe logo
Safe Travel Europe

How to Get to Linhart Game Preserve Karlovy Vary

Learn how to get to Linhart Game Preserve Karlovy Vary by bus, car, or foot. Follow our 2026 guide for routes, costs, and step-by-step directions.

7 min readBy Editor
Share this article:
How to Get to Linhart Game Preserve Karlovy Vary
On this page

How to Get to Linhart Game Preserve Karlovy Vary Easily

Knowing how to get to Linhart Game Preserve Karlovy Vary is essential for a smooth trip. This peaceful forest area offers a great escape from the busy spa center. You can see deer, wild boar, and beautiful tall trees here. It is a favorite spot for families and nature lovers visiting the region.

Quick answer: The easiest way to reach the preserve is by taking bus number 6 from the Tržnice station. This ride takes about 15 minutes and drops you near the entrance. Alternatively, you can enjoy a 45-minute walk through the scenic spa woods for a more active experience.

Public Transport to Linhart Game Preserve

Public transport is the most efficient way to reach the preserve. The local bus network in Karlovy Vary is very reliable. You should head to the main bus hub called Tržnice. This station is located in the modern part of the city. From there, look for the platform for bus number 6.

You can check the latest schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. Buses usually run every 30 to 60 minutes. On weekends, the frequency might be lower, so plan ahead. You can buy a ticket directly from the driver or at a yellow machine. Ensure you have small change or a contactless card for payment.

The ride takes you uphill through a residential area. You will see the landscape change from buildings to thick forest. Get off at the stop named "Sv. Linhart." This stop is located right at the edge of the woods. From there, it is a very short walk to the main gates of the game preserve.

If you are looking for Linhart Game Preserve walking routes, the bus stop is the perfect starting point. Many trails begin right next to the bus shelter. You will find large maps posted there to help you choose your path. Most visitors find the bus system to be very user-friendly in 2026.

Walking Routes from the City Center

Walking is the most rewarding way to reach the site. Karlovy Vary is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its spa landscape. The trails are well-maintained and clearly marked with colored signs. You can start your journey near the Diana Funicular station. From there, follow the blue or yellow markers into the deep woods.

The hike involves some steep sections at the beginning. However, the path levels out as you reach the higher ridges. You will pass several historic gazebos and viewpoints along the way. These spots offer stunning views of the valley below. Most people reach the preserve in about 45 to 60 minutes from the center.

Using Karlovy Vary spa woods trails is a great way to stay active. The air in the forest is fresh and clean. The paths are wide enough for strollers in most sections. However, some side trails can be rocky or muddy after rain. Wear sturdy shoes to ensure your comfort during the trek.

This route is perfect if you want to find quiet places in Karlovy Vary. The deeper you go into the woods, the quieter it becomes. You might even spot small forest animals before you reach the main enclosure. It is a peaceful journey that connects the city to the wild.

Driving and Parking at St. Linhart

Driving is a convenient option if you are traveling with a large group. The drive from the city center takes approximately 10 minutes. You should follow the signs for the "Doubí" district. From there, look for the turn-off toward St. Linhart. The road is paved but becomes narrow as you enter the forest.

There is a dedicated parking lot located near the St. Linhart information center. This lot is often free, but check for updated signs in 2026. During sunny weekends, the lot can fill up very quickly. It is best to arrive before 10:00 AM to secure a spot. If the lot is full, you may have to park further down the road.

For more local tips, visit the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism portal. They provide updates on road closures or special events in the area. Driving allows you to bring more gear, such as picnic baskets or heavy camera equipment. This is useful if you plan to see the animals to see at Linhart Game Preserve St. Linhart for several hours.

The area around the parking lot is very accessible. You will find a cafe and a rope park nearby. This makes it an excellent base for a full day of outdoor activities. Just remember to drive slowly, as hikers and cyclists often cross the main road. Respect the forest environment by keeping your vehicle on the designated paths.

Step-by-Step Guide: Your Journey to the Preserve

Follow these steps to ensure you reach the preserve without any stress. This guide focuses on the public transport route, which is the top choice for tourists.

  1. Head to Tržnice Station: Go to the central bus hub in the city center. Time: 5-10 mins. Cost: Free to walk there. Where: Near the Albert supermarket. Mistake: Going to the main train station instead.
  2. Board Bus Number 6: Look for the bus heading toward Doubí or Sv. Linhart. Time: 15 mins. Cost: 30 CZK. Where: Platform 1 or 2. Mistake: Boarding bus 1, which goes a different way.
  3. Exit at Sv. Linhart: Watch the digital display inside the bus for the stop name. Time: 1 min. Cost: Included. Where: The stop is at the top of the hill. Mistake: Getting off too early at the residential stops.
  4. Follow the Blue Trail: Walk past the cafe and follow the blue markers into the woods. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Where: Entrance gate. Mistake: Walking back down the main road.
  • Checklist for your trip:
  • Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
  • A small amount of Czech Koruna (CZK) for snacks.
  • A fully charged phone for photos and navigation.
  • A light jacket, as the forest is cooler than the city.

Troubleshooting and Common Problems

Even with a good plan, issues can arise during your trip. Here are some common problems and how to solve them easily.

  • Bus is late: Traffic can delay bus number 6 during peak hours. Wait at least 10 minutes before seeking other options.
  • Lost in the woods: If you lose the trail, look for the colored stripes on tree trunks. Always return to the last marker you saw.
  • No ticket machine: If the machine at Tržnice is broken, you can pay the driver directly with cash.
  • Cafe is closed: The local cafe has seasonal hours. Bring your own water and snacks just in case it is shut.
  • Poor cell signal: Download an offline map of the Karlovy Vary region before you leave your hotel.
  • Weather changes: Rain can make the forest paths very slippery. If a storm starts, head back to the bus stop immediately.
  • Mistaking the entrance: There are multiple gates to the preserve. Look for the large wooden map near the St. Linhart center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee for the Linhart Game Preserve?

No, entering the Linhart Game Preserve is free for all visitors. You can walk along the elevated paths and view the animals without buying a ticket. However, you might want to bring cash for the nearby cafe or the high-ropes center located at the entrance.

How long does it take to see the whole preserve?

Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours at the preserve. This allows enough time to walk the main loop and watch the deer and boars. If you choose to hike from the city center, plan for a total trip of about 4 hours including travel.

Can I take a stroller to the game preserve?

Yes, the main paths around the St. Linhart area are stroller-friendly. The elevated wooden walkways are flat and wide. However, if you are walking from the city center through the forest, a rugged all-terrain stroller is highly recommended due to roots and stones.

Getting to the Linhart Game Preserve is a simple and enjoyable process. Whether you take the bus or walk through the woods, the journey is part of the fun. This destination offers a unique look at the natural beauty of the Czech Republic. Make sure to check the bus times and wear your best walking shoes. For more ideas on what to do, explore our guide on hidden gems in Karlovy Vary to complete your itinerary.

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.