HISTORY: DAVIDOVA BOUDA
A mountain farm that was ahead of its time.
On the slopes of the Krkonoše Mountains, not far from Špindlerův Mlýn, stands Davidova bouda—a place where, for generations, the harsh mountain life has intertwined with the growing world of tourism. Today it serves as a peaceful mountain retreat, but its history is surprisingly rich, dynamic, and at times almost unbelievable.
The lodge’s roots stretch deep into the past. As early as the mid-19th century, a mountain homestead stood here, likely founded by David Krauss. From 1848 onward, it was owned by the Adolf family, who gave the place a new direction and energy.
A major turning point came in 1888, when Johann Adolf responded to growing visitor interest in mountain stays and established the first guest rooms at the lodge. Tourism gradually began to change the character of the place—alongside traditional farming, hospitality became increasingly prominent.
Nevertheless, the lodge retained its original focus for a long time. At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, agriculture was the main source of income. The owner personally carried butter, cheese, and other homemade products in a backpack across the mountains all the way to what is now Sobieszów, Poland. In addition to his own products, he also purchased produce from neighboring farmers.
In the 1920s, David’s huts underwent a significant transformation. New operational buildings, a modern kitchen, and guest facilities were added. In 1929, a ski storage room was built, reflecting the growing popularity of winter sports.
But the owner went even further—he had an access road built, allowing cars and buses to reach the lodge. For that time, this was an extraordinary move that significantly increased the site’s accessibility and popularity.
Contemporary accounts describe the lodge as a place of exceptional cleanliness and hospitality. Guests enjoyed not only comfort but also high-quality home-style cuisine—all in an environment that combined mountain simplicity with unexpected comfort.
David’s huts were a prime example of a self-sufficient mountain farm. A water turbine generating electricity operated here, trout were raised, and there were even attempts to grow potatoes. The owner employed several workers and cared for a large herd—ranging from cows and horses to pigs and small livestock.
Horses were used not only for work but also to transport guests—in summer by wagon, in winter by sleigh, even to more distant locations in the foothills.
The lodge offered more than 40 rooms, dozens of beds, and a large dormitory. Central heating and running water were standard—a luxury that was uncommon in the mountain conditions of that time. Guests could rent sleds or skis and even had a ski instructor at their disposal.
David’s lodges were not just a place of rest, but also a lively hub of social activity. Music was played here, people danced, and individuals from various corners of the mountains and foothills gathered.
However, the peaceful life was disrupted by the dramatic events of the 20th century. In 1938, the Czechoslovak Army arrived at the cabin, and the subsequent events of World War II brought uncertainty and chaos. After the war ended, the Adolf family, who had built up the place over generations, was forced to leave the cabin.
Today, David’s huts stand as silent witnesses to the past. They remind us of a time when life in the mountains was lived in close harmony with nature, yet also with the courage to innovate and push the boundaries of what was possible.
They are not merely a historical curiosity—they are a symbol of human diligence, ingenuity, and the ability to create a thriving place even in the most challenging mountain conditions.
Source: History of the Krkonoše Mountain Huts
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