Ski Trips from Prague by Car: Krkonoše, Klínovec and Jeseníky
Ski Trips from Prague by Car: Krkonoše, Klínovec and Jeseníky
The Czech mountains are close enough to ski for a day or a long weekend, and a rental car makes the trip simple: no bus changes, skis in the boot and a stop wherever you like. The main Krkonoše resorts are about two hours from Prague, Klínovec is on the Ore Mountains ridge, and Jeseníky offers a quieter alternative in the north-east. Season dates depend on snow, so check each resort before you set off.
~2 h
to the Krkonoše resorts
Free
winter tyres Nov–Mar
Included
Czech motorway vignette
Free
child seats
Where to ski near Prague
Špindlerův Mlýn
The largest and best-known resort in the Krkonoše, with a lively town at the bottom. About 2 to 2.5 hours from Prague.
Pec pod Sněžkou
Several connected areas around Černá hora, with around 50 km of pistes in total. A good choice for mixed groups.
Harrachov
A smaller, calmer resort known for ski jumping. About two hours from Prague.
Klínovec
The highest peak of the Ore Mountains with views over the region. Good for a day trip.
Jeseníky
Quieter mountains in the north-east. Cars can reach only Ovčárna in winter. Combine skiing with the thermal spa in Velké Losiny.
Planning the drive
1
Leave early
Roads to the mountains fill up on Saturday mornings. Leave before 7:00, or travel on a weekday.
2
Check the weather
Look at the forecast and the road conditions the day before. Snow and ice are common above 800 m.
3
Park first
Parking at the main lifts is paid and busy at weekends. Arrive early, or use the car parks on the edge of town.
4
Keep gear dry
An estate or SUV keeps wet skis and boots away from the passengers. Bring a roof box for longer trips.
Winter tyres and the law
In Czechia winter tyres are required from 1 November to 31 March when there is continuous snow, ice or frost, or where a blue sign says so. Every CarLove car rented in this period is fitted with Alpine snowflake winter tyres free of charge. Read the full details in our winter car rental guide.
The Krkonoše resorts such as Špindlerův Mlýn, Pec pod Sněžkou and Harrachov are roughly 140 to 160 km from Prague, usually about two to two and a half hours by car. Klínovec is a similar distance to the north-west. Jeseníky is further, around four hours.
When does the ski season start?
It depends on snow and temperature. Czech resorts use snowmaking, and lifts usually start running in December. Check the resort website for current conditions before you leave.
Are winter tyres included in the rental?
Yes. From 1 November to 31 March your CarLove car is fitted with Alpine snowflake winter tyres at no extra charge. The Czech motorway vignette is included too.
Can I take a rental car to Austria or Poland for skiing?
Yes. There is no cross-border fee within the EU, just tell us in advance. Austria needs its own motorway vignette.
What car is best for a ski trip?
An estate or an SUV gives you space for skis, boots and luggage. A 4x4 is not required for the main resorts, but the winter tyres we fit are.
Do you provide child seats?
Yes, free of charge: booster, carrier (cradle) or seat. Tell us your child's age when you book.
Book a car for your ski trip
Fleet of 200+ cars under 2 years old, from 19 euros per day. Winter tyres included.
