Radostná Pod Kozákovem – Nature and Minerals in Český ráj

Radostná pod Kozákovem combines protected landscape, an extraordinary mineral history and vibrant regional traditions. The village lies entirely within the Český ráj Protected Landscape Area. Particularly characteristic is its close connection with Kozákov, a very ancient geological formation created by volcanic activity and a site where unique minerals are found.

Landscape and Minerals around Kozákov

The name Radostná pod Kozákovem comes from the Radostná Spring. It lies on the southern slope of Kozákov at an elevation of approximately 600 m. Above Radostná pod Kozákovem, the spring is located along blue- and yellow-marked hiking trails; it is accompanied by a chapel dating from 1841. This combines a specific landscape impression with a small historic destination that can be incorporated into a hike.

The Kozákov settlement is also home to Votrubcův lom, an important natural feature and a renowned site where semiprecious stones are found. The geological uniqueness of Kozákov can be experienced there. In addition, Mr. Votrubec’s collection of semiprecious stones in Kozákov can be visited year-round. Travellers interested in rocks, regional nature and unusual discoveries thus have two different options: visiting a site where stones are found in the landscape and visiting the collection, which is accessible year-round.

Exhibitions and Traditions throughout the Year

During the summer months of July and August, the municipal office in Radostná pod Kozákovem hosts an annual exhibition of gemstones from the Kozákov deposits and the surrounding area. The exhibition complements the geological sites and the collection with a seasonal insight into the region’s minerals.

Another side of the village is represented by the annual masked procession held during the carnival season. It has taken place with a horse-drawn carriage since 1982 and ends with a carnival ball. The tradition is therefore not merely an individual event listing, but an established part of the local annual cycle lasting for decades. Volavec is also home to a chapel whose exterior was restored in 2017 and interior in 2018.

Cycle Routes for Exploring the Surroundings

Two documented cycle-route sections are important for arriving and exploring the area by bicycle. The cycle route along Road II/282 runs from the crossroads by the wayside cross to Lestkov and was completed in 2019. The second construction stage of the cycle route along Road II/283 connects Lestkov with Tatobity and was completed in 2010. The two sections offer different directions for a cycling trip through the surroundings, without needing to be combined into a single route.

Discover More Places in the Surrounding Area

If you would like to explore other places in the region in addition to Radostná pod Kozákovem, you will find Syřenov, Horka U Staré Paky, Libštát, Rychlov, Košov, Krckovice-Hrubá Skála, Vichova Nad Jizerou and Hochstadt An Der Iser here.

For the higher-level travel overview: Semily District.