Žalý, Mountain summit in Giant Mountains, Czech Republic

Hinterer Heidelberg (Zadní Žalý) is the higher of the two Žalý summits in the central Krkonoše, 1.5 km east of Benecko, reaching 1,036 metres. It forms a short, flat ridge of phyllites and gneisses, and to its northeast a rocky spur, the Žalský kozí hřbet, drops toward the Labe gorge, forcing the river into a sharp bend.

The Krkonoše range, where this peak stands, served for centuries as a natural divide between Bohemian and Silesian territories. The German name of the summit dates back to the period when German-speaking populations settled and worked in these mountain communities.

The name "Hinterer Heidelberg" is German and reflects the long presence of German-speaking communities in this part of the Krkonoše mountains. Hikers still come across this legacy in the old trail markers and place names scattered across the surrounding slopes.

The summit can be reached by marked trails starting from several towns on both the Czech and Polish sides of the mountains. Winter conditions on the ridge can be harsh, so checking the forecast before setting out is a good habit.

The area around the summit falls within the protected zone of the Krkonoše National Park, which keeps certain paths closed to visitors throughout the year. Staying on the marked routes still allows walkers to observe the fragile peat bog vegetation on the ridge from close range.