The Legend of the Chamois Stag Statue Karlovy Vary

The legend of the Chamois stag statue Karlovy Vary began with King Charles IV. He was hunting in the forest many centuries ago. His hounds chased a large stag toward a steep cliff. The stag jumped off the ledge into a steaming spring below. The king's men found the animal unharmed in the hot water.

This discovery led to the founding of the town. Charles IV realized the water had healing powers. He built a spa around the springs. Today, the statue marks the exact spot of the jump. It is a symbol of the town's origins. You can learn about the shortest hiking trail to Deer Jump lookout to see it yourself.

The current statue is not the original one. The first version was made of wood. A sculptor named August Kiss created the metal version in 1851. It is actually a chamois, not a red deer. Many people still call it the stag statue. It stands proudly on a granite rock overlooking the valley.

9 Must-See Sights Near the Deer Jump Lookout

Karlovy Vary offers many unique experiences for travelers. Most sights are within walking distance of the center. You can enjoy thermal water while exploring. Here are the top picks for your itinerary. This list helps you plan a perfect day in the city.

• Best overall: Deer Jump Lookout
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Moser Glassworks
• Best free activity: Mill Colonnade

1. Name: Deer Jump Lookout Type: Sight Why go: This is the site of the famous legend. It offers the most iconic photo spot in town. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Forested hills above the Westend district. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the Market Colonnade or take the funicular. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting on the statue.
2. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It provides a 360-degree view of the entire region. There is also a small butterfly house nearby. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: At the top of the Diana funicular line. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free tower entry; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from the Grandhotel Pupp area. Tip: Check the funicular schedule as it closes in the evening.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Architecture Why go: It is the largest colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five springs. Best for: Sightseeing and tasting mineral water. Where: Central spa area by the river. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy walk through the pedestrian zone. Tip: Bring a porcelain spa cup to sample the water.
4. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Architecture Why go: This wooden structure is built in a Swiss style. It houses the Charles IV Spring. Best for: Fans of intricate woodwork. Where: Near the Plague Column. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Read the relief carvings that depict the town's legend.
5. Name: Vřídelní Colonnade (Hot Spring) Type: Experience Why go: See the most powerful spring in town. It shoots water up to 12 meters high. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: Right in the heart of the spa zone. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central walking path. Tip: Visit the underground tour to see how stone roses are made.
6. Name: Peter the Great Viewpoint Type: Viewpoint Why go: Named after the Russian Tsar who visited. It offers a unique angle of the town. Best for: Quiet reflection and nature. Where: A short walk from the Deer Jump statue. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow-marked forest trails. Tip: Look for the bust of Peter the Great nearby.
7. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: Learn about world-famous Czech glass. You can see master glassblowers at work. Best for: Art enthusiasts and rainy days. Where: Kpt. Jaroše district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: Book your tour in advance during the summer season.
8. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Experience Why go: Discover the history of Becherovka herbal liqueur. The tour includes a tasting session. Best for: Adults and culinary fans. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Walkable from the main bus station. Tip: Buy a bottle here as a local souvenir.
9. Name: Church of St. Mary Magdalene Type: Sight Why go: A stunning Baroque church designed by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage area. Best for: Architecture and religion. Where: Opposite the Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Central walking district. Tip: Attend a classical music concert inside for great acoustics.

Planning Your Trip to the Deer Jump Lookout

Getting to the Deer Jump lookout is easy for most travelers. You can use the local public transport system to reach the base. The most popular way up is the Diana funicular. It departs every 15 minutes from the station near Grandhotel Pupp. You should get off at the middle station called Jelení skok.

If you prefer walking, the trails are well-marked. Wear comfortable shoes as some paths are steep. The walk from the Market Colonnade takes about 20 minutes. You will pass through lush forests and historic villas. Always carry a map or use a GPS app.

Karlovy Vary is a year-round destination. Spring and autumn offer mild weather for hiking. Winter is magical but trails can be slippery. Try drinking Karlovy Vary thermal springs water along the way. Most springs are free to access throughout the day.