Boubín

Boubín (1,362 m above sea level), German Kubani, is a mountain in the Boubín highlands and the fifth-highest peak of the Czech part of Šumava. It is also the third-highest peak in the South Bohemian region and the highest mountain of this area lying inland, away from the state border. It stands about 3.5 km east of Kubova Huť, with its summit falling within the cadastral area of Včelná pod Boubínem.

Boubín's rounded massif, together with the sharply shaped Bobík (1,265 m), forms the characteristic silhouette of Šumava, visible even from very distant places. The massif is built mainly of Moldanubian rocks — migmatites and paragneisses. Thanks to its dominant position in the landscape, Boubín has always drawn the attention of inhabitants across the wider region, and so it became wrapped in various myths and legends. Especially during the flourishing of the National Revival in the 19th century, it was counted among the memorable mountains.

Boubín is among the mountains that have earned a place not only in the landscape but also in people's imaginations — its summit was a symbol and landmark for generations of inhabitants. The massif's slopes are covered in forest, and one of Šumava's best-known primeval forest reserves lies hidden nearby, an inseparable part of a trip to Boubín. Climbing to the summit thus combines the experience of nature with a reminder of this mountain's ancient symbolism.

Boubín is a rewarding hiking destination and one of the fundamental landmarks of Šumava. It combines beautifully with exploring the surrounding peaks, forests and trails of the national park. If you plan your stay in the region with lodging nearby, you'll have time to climb Boubín at leisure, walk the surrounding forest routes, and take in the atmosphere of a mountain wrapped in legend that has dominated the landscape for centuries.