The Legend and History of the Chamois Statue Karlovy Vary

The history of the Chamois statue Karlovy Vary began in 1851. Baron August von Lützow commissioned the sculpture. He was a wealthy and eccentric resident of the city. He wanted to mock a local legend about a deer jumping from the cliff. The Baron believed a deer would never make such a leap. Instead, he chose a chamois, a goat-antelope known for its agility.

The statue was created by the famous Berlin sculptor August Kiss. It was originally cast in zinc. The Baron placed it on the rock secretly at night. This act surprised the townspeople the next morning. It eventually became the city's most famous symbol. Today, a bronze replica stands in its place to resist the elements.

You can learn more about the city's heritage at the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site. The statue represents the playful spirit of 19th-century Bohemia. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage landscape. Visiting this spot is essential for any history lover.

9 Best Stops on the Deer Leap Lookout Hiking Path

Exploring the woods above the town is a highlight for many. The trails are well-marked and offer amazing views. Use this Deer Leap lookout trails map Karlovy Vary to find your way. Here are the nine best stops to include on your journey.

1. Name: The Chamois Statue (Jelení skok) Type: Sight Why go: It is the primary symbol of the city. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: On a granite rock above the Teplá valley. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow trail from the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting.
2. Name: Deer Leap Lookout Pavilion Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers a wooden gazebo with panoramic views. Best for: Relaxing after a steep climb. Where: Just above the Chamois statue. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Continue uphill from the statue. Tip: This is a great spot for a picnic.
3. Name: Peter the Great Monument Type: Sight Why go: Commemorates the Tsar's visit in 1712. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Petrova výšina (Peter’s Height). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the signs from the main path. Tip: Look for the bust of the Tsar on the rock.
4. Name: Mayer’s Gloriette Type: Viewpoint Why go: A charming 19th-century wooden structure. Best for: Romantic views of the city center. Where: West of the Chamois statue. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the forest path towards Diana. Tip: The view of the Colonnades is perfect from here.
5. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Activity Why go: A brick tower with an elevator and restaurant. Best for: Families and easy views. Where: The summit of the hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free entry to tower; fee for funicular. Getting there: Walk the path or take the funicular from the town. Tip: Check the Visit Czechia site for funicular schedules.
6. Name: Findlater Obelisk Type: Sight Why go: Honors the Scottish Earl who funded the forest paths. Best for: Appreciation of trail history. Where: Near the Findlater Temple. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the path between the town and Diana. Tip: Read the inscription to learn about the Earl’s generosity.
7. Name: Sanatorium Richmond Park Type: Experience Why go: Beautiful gardens and a Japanese rock garden. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Southern end of the city. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start your hike here to approach from the south. Tip: Look for the statue of a stag in the park.
8. Name: Imperial Hotel Viewpoint Type: Viewpoint Why go: View the grandest hotel in the city from above. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Eastern side of the hiking loop. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via the green trail. Tip: The hotel looks like a fairytale castle from this angle.
9. Name: Butterfly House (Papilonia) Type: Activity Why go: Hundreds of exotic butterflies in a tropical setting. Best for: Families and rainy days. Where: Located next to the Diana Tower. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small admission fee. Getting there: Same route as the Diana Tower. Tip: Wear bright colors to attract the butterflies.

Planning Your Hike to the Deer Leap Lookout

Hiking in Karlovy Vary is suitable for most fitness levels. The paths are paved or well-maintained gravel. You should wear comfortable walking shoes. The weather can change quickly in the Bohemian hills. Always bring a light jacket, even in summer. You can find more secret places in Karlovy Vary if you explore further.

The funicular is a great option for those with limited mobility. It runs every 15 minutes from the town center. If you prefer a different challenge, try the Three Crosses lookout Karlovy Vary hike on the opposite hill. Most trails are open year-round. However, winter can make the paths slippery. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.