Kvilda Visitor Center
The Kvilda Visitor Center is part of a program run by the Šumava National Park Administration to introduce visitors to the life of selected animal species that have always called the Šumava (Bohemian Forest) their home.
Location
The deer and lynx enclosures are located about 1.5 km from Kvilda in the direction of Vimperk.
About the Animals in the Center
Deer have been part of the Bohemian Forest for centuries. However, they were once hunted to extinction by humans and later reintroduced, allowing them to become the kings of the forest once again.
Lynxes also disappeared due to persecution, but thanks to a successful reintroduction program in the 1980s on both the Bavarian and Czech sides of the Bohemian Forest, they have once again become natural predators, mainly preying on roe deer.
Exhibitions and Observation Opportunities
The visitor center features a permanent exhibition dedicated to the life of the European red deer (Cervus elaphus) and other deer species in the Šumava region.
Inside the center’s building, visitors can also watch live camera feeds from the deer and lynx enclosures.
Jelení stezka – The Deer Trail
The visitor center includes the Deer Trail ("Jelení stezka") – a 2.6 km long circular path, partially passing through the deer enclosure.
From three observation towers, visitors can watch the deer herd grazing undisturbed.
Another viewing platform is located at the enclosure of a pair of Eurasian lynxes (Lynx lynx), the largest wild cats in Central Europe.
Accessibility and Additional Information
- The entire visitor center area is open free of charge year-round, only parking (car, bus) is charged.
- The area is barrier-free and accessible for wheelchair users with an assistant.
Accessibility
Open year-round according to operating hours
Entrance fee
free
How to get there
Parking available at the visitor center (paid)
