History of Harrachov

Town at the Border

Harrachov nowadays is without a doubt centre of winter sports and it still remains to be famous for it’s glass manufacturing history. Harrachov sits at two boarder lines. First one, more important is on the north/west, where Czech Republic meets Poland. Harrachov/Jakuszyce is one of the busiest borders with Poland. Second boarder line is on west, where Krkonose Mountains meet Jizera mountain, so it divides two mountain ranges.

Evolution of Harrchov

Todays town has created after second World War, by connecting three little neighborhoods Ryzoviste, Harrachov and Novy Svet. Ryzoviste used to be one of the oldest mining towns in Krkonose and there was a first glass factory there in 17th century. Glass factory moved to Novy Svet at the beginning of 18th century where it remains until now. In between 1764 - 1942 Glass factory was owned by the Duke of Harrachov and local glass production became famous not only in Czech, but all over the World. You can visit Galss Museum in Harrachov as well as see how the glass is made in the factory. Glass is still handmade here and there is literally no automatized manufacturing done here.

Harrachov has brode history in accommodating people in their houses. In 18th - 19th century, you could knock on someones door and if you were approved you had a place to stay for a night. This kind of accommodation is still here to the certain extend, we call it Pensions.

Harrachov Nowadays

Harrachov nowadays is more or less connected to winter sports and tourist industry. There is complex of two chairlifts and five runs on top of Certova hora. There are also world famous ski jumping platforms and one unique one called Mamut, used for ski flying. Fro cross country skiing lovers we have complex of cross country tracks, connected to almost 30km of Krkonoska Magistrala.

In the summer, Harrachov is great start point for trips to Western part of Krkonose and also Jizera Mountains. Most interesting natural feature is without a doubt Mumlava Fall, 10 metres tall natural waterfall. Walking of cross country skiing by Mumlava river is very relaxing.

We wish you pleasant stay in Harrachov and hope to see you around.