Where to go on a trip Okolí Prahy - západ

The Neo-Gothic Castle Jewel in the Central Bohemian Region, Known for Its Historical Vehicle Exhibition and Miniature Park.

Hrad Červený Újezd, located in the Středočeský kraj (Central Bohemian Region), is a unique new building inspired by historical Gothic castles. It was built at the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century as a private initiative, nevertheless with the aim of creating a cultural and entertainment complex accessible to the public. The castle features elements of Neo-Gothic architecture and, although it is a modern structure, it is built with an emphasis on medieval aesthetics and details. Its premises house several museums and exhibitions, including the extensive Muzeum historických vozidel (Museum of Historical Vehicles) and a historical weapons exhibition. The dominant feature of the complex is also an extensive park with miniatures of well-known Czech and Moravian castles and chateaux.

Access

Hrad Červený Újezd lies approximately 3 km from the village of Neumětely, near road I/4. Access by car is possible from road I/4, turning off towards Hostomice. Parking is available in an extensive free car park directly in front of the castle complex. Bus transport is limited; the nearest stops are Hostomice pod Brdy, náměstí or Neumětely, hrad, from where a short walk is required. The castle is not located near main railway lines. Thanks to its location, it is a popular destination for family trips.

What Is Worth Discovering

Nearby is Hrad Karlštejn, a Gothic castle founded by Karel IV. (Charles IV), which served for the safekeeping of the imperial coronation jewels. Visitors can also visit Zámek Hořovice – an extensive chateau complex with exhibitions and a baroque garden. For nature lovers, CHKO Český kras (Český kras Protected Landscape Area) with the Koněpruské jeskyně (Koněprusy Caves) and the quarries Velká Amerika and Malá Amerika is of interest.

It is said that every Czech person should visit the most famous landmarks at least once in their life, and the hrad Karlštejn undoubtedly belongs among them. It is a monumental medieval royal castle that was commissioned by Karel IV. The main motive for building this monumental Gothic jewel was the protection of the coronation jewels and holy relics, to which he attributed considerable importance. Those interested can reach the castle by car, for example, but there is also a cycling route leading here from Beroun. Finally, the castle is also easily accessible by train.

The history of Karlštejn began to be written in 1348, and from the very beginning of its existence, it held a special position compared to other Czech and Moravian castles. Karel IV himself arrived here as early as 1355 and personally supervised the construction work and the decoration of the interiors. He was particularly concerned with the appearance of the castle chapels, which are among the most sought-after places during tours.

Women at Karlštejn were and always will be

During the Hussite wars, the Czech coronation jewels were moved precisely here because Karlštejn guaranteed that they would be safe behind its walls. It is interesting that the jewels remained here long after the religious conflicts had subsided for some time. It is said that almost 200 years passed from their deposit until their next relocation. The main impulse was the Thirty Years' War, during which the castle was no longer considered impregnable. Few people also know that the castle underwent various reconstructions over the centuries. The historically last one took place in the 19th century in the spirit of purism, and its goal was to restore the castle's appearance to the Gothic period. From the 1950s onwards, only necessary adjustments were made, as required by its ever-increasing tourist popularity.

During a trip to Karlštejn, visitors can look forward to several tour circuits, which include the Císařská rezidence Karla IV., Karlštejnské hradní kaple, the Velká věž with the kaple sv. Kříže, which houses an exceptionally valuable collection of panel paintings from the workshop of Mistr Theodorik, and many others. Visitors should also see the beautifully restored garden on the barbican. Furthermore, women do not need to worry about being denied entry to the castle, because contrary to the popular belief depicted in the Czech film musical Noc na Karlštejně, ladies were not forbidden from accessing the castle.

The best accommodation near hrad Karlštejn is provided by comfortable cottages, holiday homes, and apartments, where one can arrive as a couple or, for example, accompanied by the whole family. We would certainly recommend staying in the area for a few days, as you will discover many other tourist attractions nearby that would be a shame to miss during your holidays. These include, for example, the Muzeum voskových figurín Karlštejn, the Muzeum betlémů Karlštejn, or the Muzeum lehkého opevnění. Given that there is truly a lot to see here, you should definitely not rush your return trip home.

The Chráněná krajinná oblast Český kras can be found southwest of Prague, in the Středočeský kraj. This limestone territory, covering an area of 130 km², was declared a protected landscape area in 1972. The locality is unique not only in terms of its landscape, fauna, and flora but also for its geological past and history.

The name Český kras was given to this territory by the famous researcher Jaroslav Petrbok; the reason for this designation was the geological structure and the karst character of the landscape. For geologists, this locality is significant in terms of studying the history of the planet; at Klonk near Suchomasty, there is a global boundary between the formations of the early Paleozoic era, the Silurian and the Devonian.

Karst areas are characterised by the occurrence of caves, and it is no different in the Český kras, where there are over 700 of them. Most of them are small; only ten of them have a length of more than 300 metres. They preserve knowledge about the prehistoric fauna of the Quaternary period as well as traces of human settlement. Paleozoic limestone, shale, and volcanics serving as the bedrock represent an ideal environment for rare plants and animals. In the Český kras, for example, you can find the largest Czech locality of the critically endangered dragonhead (Dracocephalum austriacum). Thanks to the natural environment, some species of reptiles and amphibians occur here, such as the dice snake and the smooth snake, or the European green lizard and the fire salamander. Insect species in this territory are also diverse; 1,390 species of butterflies alone can be found here.

Significant localities with rich fossil finds occur in this area. In this respect, the Český kras was made famous in the 19th century by the French geologist and palaeontologist Joachim Barrande, who described many sites. The most famous localities include Koněprusy, Loděnice, Budňanská skála in Karlštejn, or Lochkov. You can view some fossils in Skryje, where you will also find a monument to the geologist.

Of the hundreds of caves in the Český kras, the most extensive are the Koněpruské jeskyně. These are also the longest cave system in Bohemia discovered to date. The caves have been accessible to the public since 1959, and currently, visitors can admire the stalactite decoration on two levels. The oldest stalactite formations resemble Brussels sprouts and are completely unique. Skeletal remains of animals, up to 1.5 million years old, were found in the cave. For all visitors of an adventurous nature, there are tours by flashlight, always on the last Monday of the month, during which you will get to know the Koněpruské jeskyně just as the speleologists discovered them.

You can discover and admire nature thanks to the educational trails Zlatý kůň, Vodácká naučná stezka Berounka, Svatojánský okruh, or Naučná stezka Karlštejn. For breathtaking photographs, it is recommended to go to the Lom Velká Amerika. However, the Český kras is not just about nature and karst phenomena. Among the most popular tourist destinations is the medieval royal hrad Karlštejn with three tour circuits. In the village of Karlštejn, there is also a Muzeum voskových figurín, where you will get to know personalities of Czech history. Tourists also frequently visit the pilgrimage church Svatý Jan pod Skalou.

Find pleasant accommodation near the Chráněná krajinná oblast Český kras so that you can set off on your sightseeing trip as early as possible in the morning. Try looking for apartments in Srbsko or guesthouses in Mníšek pod Brdy. The district town of Beroun also offers very good options, where you will find guesthouses and apartments as well as cheaper private accommodation or a hostel. You can also reach the Český kras by Pražská integrovaná doprava, so nothing prevents you from booking accommodation in the centre of Prague and comfortably taking a trip to the Český kras by bus or train.

Small zoo, big experiences

Zoopark Zájezd is located in the village of Zájezd (Kladno District), just about 17 km from Prague, and is one of the smallest yet most vibrant zoological gardens in the Czech Republic. It was opened to the public in 2010 and today houses more than 100 species of animals, including lemurs, meerkats, camels, parrots, and the largest public collection of chameleons in the world. Divided into two parts “U lemurů” and “U velbloudů". It offers entertainment for the whole family, educational programmes, and beautiful walks.

Encounters with exotic and domestic pets

In the “U lemurů” exhibit, visitors will find ring-tailed lemurs, tamarins, meerkats, and the largest species collection of chameleons along with exotic reptiles, amphibians, and tropical birds. In the “U velbloudů” section, one can admire llamas, camels, horses, cows, or sheep in the petting zoo, where children can feed the animals. An educational trail with wooden elements leads from the car park down into the complex, offering interactive stops and a walk approximately 1 km long. The “Ušákov” children’s playground with giant rabbits, a picnic zone, and a walk-through aviary with squirrels and pheasants are being developed gradually as part of the expansion of the complex.

General information

The complex is suitable for families with children who will appreciate the petting zoo, playground, and interactive trail; for school groups and zoology enthusiasts who wish to observe exotic and domestic animals up close; and also for individuals, couples, or seniors looking for an easy trip in nature. The complex has wheelchair access, and entry with a dog on a lead is permitted.

How to get here and what is available

The Zoopark is located in the village of Zájezd in the Kladno District. If travelling by car, parking is provided at the upper part of the complex, and the path down leads along a small educational trail to the lower zoo. When travelling by public transport, use the stop in Zájezd, from where a walking route leads to the complex along a marked path. In the complex, benches, gazebos for resting, a children's playground, and picnic areas are available. Refreshments are available at the zoo, including kiosks and a small café by the children's playground offering drinks, fast food, and ice cream.

Zoopark Zájezd is an ideal place for a family trip. It offers a combination of exotic animals, contact with domestic ones, entertainment for children, and a pleasant environment near Prague. It is also suitable for a shorter stay outdoors, is wheelchair accessible, and offers refreshments directly on-site. Free admission and open year-round, it is ideal as a peaceful stop full of experiences and animal inspiration.

Okoř is a romantic castle ruin located just a few minutes' drive from Prague. Most people know this tourist destination from the lyrics of the tramp song Okoř, which most of us encountered already back in kindergarten. The ruin is situated in the picturesque surroundings of the Zákolanský potok stream. Moreover, compared to many other castles, it was not protected against potential attacks from the surrounding area. One of the few other castles that was in a similarly exceptional position on Czech territory is, for example, hrad Kost. The best way to get to the ruin is to follow the road from the center of the village of Okoř. Since the torso of the castle is clearly visible, visitors need not worry about missing it during their journey.

Hrad Okoř was built in the second half of the 13th century, as archaeological surveys have proven. During this period, the tower, chapel, and wall were built. From a construction standpoint, the chapel was evaluated as demanding, so there is a relatively high probability that the castle was built by the king or another high-ranking person who could afford such an extravagant project. An interesting fact is that as early as the 14th century, the castle was owned by one of the wealthy Prague burghers, which was very unusual in terms of social and financial customs and conditions. All the more so because castles could mostly only be afforded by kings and nobles. Okoř belonged to the Rokycanský family for about 50 years and subsequently passed into the possession of other burghers.

In 1421, the castle garrison surrendered to the Hussites without a fight. Since it suffered no major damage, subsequent owners took turns occupying it, occasionally leaving behind some alterations. The first major blow to Okoř was dealt by the Thirty Years' War, during which serious damage occurred. After the war, the castle came into the possession of the Jesuits from the Kolej sv. Klimenta college, who modified it into a Baroque form and used it as their summer residence. However, this did not last long, because in 1733, following the suppression of the order by the pope, the roof of the castle was torn down and it gradually began to be dismantled for building material. Around 1800, part of the tower even collapsed. In the 19th century, impoverished dwellings were briefly located here, but tourism eventually prevailed.

Interested parties who wish to visit Okoř can look forward to a tour of the tourist circuit, which can be walked either independently or accompanied by a guide who will provide supplementary commentary. A popular attraction is not only the torso of the castle tower, but also the aforementioned Early Gothic chapel. The castle also had an advance bastion with a ditch and ramparts. Throughout the year, historical festivities and other events also take place here, which include the popular Open Air Festival Okoř.

Would visitors like to find pleasant accommodation near Okoř Castle? They will certainly appreciate local apartments and other types of accommodation capacities, from which it is also close to Prague. However, before setting off somewhere else, visitors are encouraged to stop by the shamanic circle Brána jednoho srdce. Families with children and art lovers might also enjoy Nový mlýn u Okoře, which features a system of small ponds and an outdoor sculpture gallery. It is believed that visitors will gladly return here in the future.

Water Reservoir Hidden in the Forests of the Lánská obora

Klíčavská přehrada was built between 1948 and 1955 on the Klíčava stream in the Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area. Its main purpose is to supply the town of Kladno and its surroundings with high-quality drinking water. The dam wall is a concrete gravity structure and reaches a height of over 50 meters. Below the dam, visitors will find a water treatment plant, which is architecturally interesting and built of red stone.

Currently, the reservoir is part of the Lánská obora and falls within the first protection zone of the water source, which is why it is inaccessible to the public. Visitors are permitted to access only the top of the dam wall, which offers a view of the water surface surrounded by deep forests. Neither swimming nor fishing is permitted here.

Access

A marked red tourist trail leads to the dam from the village of Zbečno (approx. 3 km). For motorists, parking is available on the village green in Zbečno or in a smaller car park near the information board before the no-entry sign (approx. 500 m from the dam). The nearest railway station is "Zbečno".

Things Worth Discovering

In nearby Zbečno, visitors can explore the historical Hamousův statek, which is a magnificent example of folk architecture. Not far away stands the majestic royal hrad Křivoklát with its prison and chapel. Directly at the inlet to the reservoir lies the Svatá Alžběta Nature Reserve with its original beech stands.

A walk to the top of the Klíčavská přehrada is a peaceful trip into the heart of the forests of Křivoklátsko. It offers a view of a significant engineering structure in harmony with the surrounding nature.

Chráněná krajinná oblast Křivoklátsko was established in 1978 and can be found 30 kilometres from Prague. It covers an area of 628 km² in the west of the Středočeský kraj. From the east, it is bordered by the town of Beroun, and from the west by Rakovník. The area is sometimes also referred to as the land of Ota Pavel, as this writer set his most famous works here, such as Smrt krásných srnců.

One year before its official declaration as a protected landscape area, CHKO Křivoklátsko became an important UNESCO biosphere reserve. At the same time, thanks to its bird area, it also prides itself on its membership in the Natura 2000 network. For the future, a transition from a protected landscape area to the highest level of protection – a national park – is planned.

The drainage of most of the territory of CHKO Křivoklátsko is managed by the Berounka river, which flows through its centre and creates deep canyons in the landscape on its way. In the western area, one can find Skryjská jezírka, which, together with a waterfall, are formed by the Zbirožský potok. Otters, crayfish, and kingfishers live here. A nature trail that is about 3 kilometres long leads here from the nearby village of Skryje. At the same time, visitors will learn that the village is an important paleontological site, famous thanks to the French researcher Joachim Barrande.

Tourists arriving in this area, however, are primarily drawn by the ascent to the highest peak of CHKO Křivoklátsko, which is Těchovín. The mountain rises to a height of 616 metres above sea level, and especially in the winter period, when the forests thin out, there is a magnificent view of the entire Rakovnicko region as well as the Krušné hory and Doupovské hory. Near the summit, there is also an important national nature reserve, Kohoutov, famous especially for its rare flowering beech forests. Roe deer, wild boar, mouflons, and the rare black stork find their refuge here.

And if nature itself does not interest you quite so much and you are more into history, CHKO Křivoklátsko has many interesting destinations for you as well. Probably the most famous historical monument is the Křivoklát castle, which ranks among the oldest castles in the Středočeský kraj and is listed as a national historical monument of the ČR. And that is not all. After Křivoklát, you can also visit the Žebrák or Točník castles, or Krakovec, which is a transitional type of castle. It was converted from an originally Gothic castle into a Renaissance chateau. And if you prefer chateaux, there is also the Zbiroh chateau or the Nižbor chateau with its Celtic exhibition. You can make your visit more pleasant by touring the local Rückl Crystal glassworks.

The area of Chráněná krajinná oblast Křivoklátsko can be visited throughout the year. However, most tourists visit mainly during the warmer period. A great attraction is the Berounka river, which is a significant refuge for boaters from all over our republic. Along the river, there are many refreshment facilities as well as rentals for boats and other equipment.

The beautiful landscape of CHKO Křivoklátsko also attracts cyclists who regularly and gladly use the local cycle paths. The Křivoklátské okruhy are particularly popular, leading mainly along lower-class roads where there is not much traffic. You can thus combine a tour of Křivoklátsko with active relaxation and go to see the Klíčavská přehrada, which is an important reservoir of drinking water for the Kladno region.

Thanks to its diversity, CHKO Křivoklátsko undoubtedly belongs among the popular destinations not only for active tourists but also for those who enjoy endless beauty while surrounded by magnificent nature. If this idea has tempted you, there is nothing easier than finding suitable accommodation in Chráněná krajinná oblast Křivoklátsko and setting off to discover new places. You will certainly enjoy it here.

The Water World of Slaný for Everyone

Aquapark Slaný offers a dynamic combination of swimming training, attractions for children, and a relaxation zone. As part of the sports hall, it is open year-round and provides a comfortable space for sports, entertainment, and rest.

Water Features That Brighten Up the Day

The aquapark offers great activities for all lovers of water and active recreation. For fitness training and free movement, a 25-meter swimming pool with five lanes is prepared, the depth of which reaches up to 1.65 meters. Visitors will enjoy a dose of adrenaline and a brisk ride on the approximately 87-meter-long water slide, which is among the most popular attractions. A wild channel with a current will bring further liveliness and fun to swimming. For the youngest visitors, a children's pool with a depth of 0.6 meters is prepared, which is ideal for first water steps and safe play. After strenuous movement, visitors will appreciate the relaxation whirlpool for perfect regeneration. Massage air beds, a counter-current, and steam rooms, which are available separately for ladies and gentlemen, also serve for the overall revitalization of body and mind. In the warm summer months, visitors can additionally make use of the outdoor grassy area, which invites sunbathing and various leisure activities.

Who the Aquapark Is Most Suitable For

This water world is designed to bring joy and well-being to every visitor. Families with children will find a safe background here in the form of the children's pool and the popular water slide, which reliably entertain all age groups. Swimmers will make full use of the spacious swimming pool designated for regular fitness training and comfortable recreational swimming. Seekers of peace and relaxation will find what they are looking for in the whirlpool, steam baths, and during water massages, which provide relief to the body and mind. The complex is also a great place for groups and schools, which will find an ideal space here for joint sports, entertainment, and a varied program.

Accessibility and Facilities for a Comfortable Day

The complex is part of the multi-purpose sports hall in Slaný and allows barrier-free access. It is excellently accessible by car and public transport, with parking arranged nearby. Visitors will make use of modern changing rooms, showers, toilets, as well as a wet buffet directly in the pool zone and vending machines in the entrance hall to replenish energy.

Aquapark Slaný is a place where water, sports, and relaxation merge into a harmonious experience for all generations.

A Cultural Gem on the Banks of the Vltava River

Zámek Roztoky u Prahy, originally a water fortress rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries, ranks among significant historical monuments in the vicinity of the metropolis. Today it serves as the seat of the Středočeské muzeum and offers visitors a unique combination of history, art, and culture.

What Zámek Roztoky u Prahy Offers Visitors

Zámek Roztoky u Prahy represents an exceptional place where rich history blends with art. Within its premises, interesting permanent exhibitions and regular exhibitions of the Středočeské muzeum can be found, which present regional history and culture. Lovers of architecture will appreciate the magnificent Renaissance halls, the historical castle chapel, and the adjoining picturesque park, which directly invites visitors for relaxing walks. The castle is active with events throughout the year, therefore offering a diverse programme of cultural and social activities. Thanks to its magical environment and historical character, it is also a popular venue for those who wish to organise romantic wedding ceremonies.

Who Zámek Roztoky u Prahy Is Intended For

This castle complex is designed to appeal to a wide spectrum of visitors. It is an ideal choice for lovers of history and architecture who wish to discover monuments of Central Bohemia. Families with children will also find something of interest here, for whom the castle prepares an educational yet entertaining trip full of discoveries. The castle serves as a great tip for tourists who wish to cleverly combine a visit to the capital city of Prague with a trip to the calmer surroundings. Last but not least, the complex is a great destination for couples and groups seeking a valuable cultural or social experience.

How Visitors Can Get Here and What Can Be Explored in the Surroundings

Zámek Roztoky u Prahy is located north of Prague, at Zámecká 1. Visitors can easily get here by train or bus from the Praha-Holešovice station to Roztok u Prahy, from where it is only a short walk. In the surroundings, visitors can explore the Vltava River valley, the Tiché údolí nature reserve, or set out on cycle paths leading along the river.

A Place Where History and Contemporary Culture Meet in Unique Harmony

Visit Zámek Roztoky u Prahy and experience the atmosphere of a beautiful residence just a few minutes from Prague.

Stone tower with a view of the Middle Vltava region

Rozhledna Na Mackově Hoře stands on the hill of the same name (479 metres) near the municipality of Vysoký Chlumec, not far from Orlík in the Central Bohemian Region. This thirty-six-metre-high stone lookout tower was built in 2004 in a historicising style. One hundred and eighty-one steps lead to its viewing platform. The lookout tower offers a circular view of the extensive Střední Povltaví, the Vodní nádrž Orlík reservoir, and, in good visibility, the prominent landmarks of the Brdská vrchovina highlands and the Českomoravská vrchovina highlands.

Access

An asphalt road leads to the lookout tower from the municipality of Vysoký Chlumec. A free car park with sufficient capacity is available for motorists directly below the lookout tower. From there, the entrance is just a few dozen metres away. For hikers, a red tourist trail from the municipality of Svatý Jan, which forms part of an educational trail, leads to the lookout tower. The nearest bus stop, Hrachov, is located about two and a half kilometres away.

What is worth discovering

The immediate surroundings are dominated by the medieval Hrad a Zámek Vysoký Chlumec, which is privately owned. Less than ten kilometres to the south-west lies Zámek Orlík and the extensive Vodní nádrž Orlík reservoir. It is also worthwhile to visit the technical monument of the Žďákovský most bridge and the nearby Hrad Zvíkov at the confluence of the Vltava and Otava rivers.

A summer resort by the forest where visitors can enjoy quiet swimming and water slides without the crowds.

Extensive water areas, modern attractions, and pleasant facilities create a space where families with children, as well as visitors seeking peaceful swimming, will find something to their liking. The location on the edge of the town near greenery gives the resort a pleasant atmosphere even during hot days.

What the Resort Offers

The dominant feature is a large swimming pool with marked lanes, suitable for fitness and recreational swimming. Next to it is a recreational pool with water features, which is particularly appreciated by families with children. There is also a spiral water slide with a landing pool, smaller slides, and a smaller children's section with a safer water depth. The resort includes grassy areas for relaxation, loungers, changing rooms, sanitary facilities, and the option of refreshments directly within the complex.

Who the Swimming Pool Is Suitable For

The resort is sought after by families with children due to the combination of attractions and quieter sections. At the same time, it is suitable for swimmers who prefer a classic pool with lanes. Thanks to its layout, the space feels airy and allows for a comfortable day spent even during higher visitor numbers.

How to Get Here and What Visitors Can Explore in the Surroundings

The swimming pool is located in the town of Kralupy nad Vltavou in the Středočeský kraj (Central Bohemian Region). Access is possible by car, and parking is available near the resort. The location is also accessible from the town centre. In the surroundings, visitors can explore zámek Nelahozeves, a significant Renaissance monument with a view of the Vltava River. History lovers will also appreciate the birthplace of Antonín Dvořák in Nelahozeves. The educational trail along the Vltava River and surrounding natural routes invite visitors for a walk or cycling trip. Also located nearby is Veltruský park and zámek Veltrusy, an extensive chateau complex suitable for a full-day trip.

Extensive Remains of an Early Gothic Royal Castle in the Křivoklát Region

Hrad Týřov is a monumental ruin of an early Gothic castle located on a steep rocky promontory above the deep valley of the Berounka River near the municipality of Skryje in the Rakovník District of the Central Bohemian Region. It was founded by the Czech King Wenceslas I in the thirteenth century and belonged to the most significant royal castles in central Bohemia. The castle was characterized by massive walls and a unique residential tower. To this day, very extensive remnants of walls, ramparts, and perimeter fortifications have been preserved, testifying to its enormous size.

Access

No direct road for cars leads to the castle; access is possible only on foot. Visitors are advised to park in the free parking lot with limited capacity located in the municipality of Skryje near Muzeum Joachima Barranda (accessible from road number 201). From there, it is a moderately demanding walk along a forest trail approximately two and a half kilometers long following the red tourist mark, which leads through the Berounka valley and across a suspension footbridge. The nearest bus stop, Skryje, is less than three kilometers away.

Things Worth Discovering

In the vicinity is the extensive CHKO Křivoklátsko with the dominant Hrad Křivoklát and Skryjská jezírka. Less than twenty kilometers to the west lies the historic town of Rakovník with Husovo náměstí and Pražská brána. It is also worth visiting Lom Velká Amerika and Hrad Točník a Žebrák.

A nostalgic return to a "capricious summer" in Rakovník

In the picturesque valley of the Rakovnický potok, there is a complex that is a true unique among Czech swimming pools. Tyršovo koupaliště v Rakovníku, founded in 1933, has preserved the unrepeatable atmosphere of the First Republic to this day. It is a place where history has stopped in its most beautiful form. The original wooden architecture, the expansive water surface, and the peace of the surrounding nature create scenery straight out of nostalgic Czech films.

What does Tyršovo koupaliště offer visitors?

The dominant feature of the complex is a giant water reservoir with an area of almost 1.5 hectares, which offers natural swimming with a sandy bottom. The greatest architectural value is represented by the original wooden cabins and terraces that line the bank and serve visitors to this day. The water is cleaned naturally, which is especially appreciated by people with sensitive skin. For athletes, the complex features a diving board, a beach volleyball court, tennis courts, and table tennis tables. The youngest visitors have a designated children's paddling pool and playground. Refreshments are provided by a stylish restaurant and stalls with terraces offering views of the entire water surface. Thanks to its size, the complex is ideal for all-day relaxation without any feeling of overcrowding.

Who is the swimming pool intended for?

The place is a dream come true for lovers of retro style, history, and natural swimming. Thanks to its spaciousness and tranquility, it is ideal for families with children looking for space to play, and for seniors who appreciate nostalgia and the shade of mature trees. It is also a popular stop for tourists and cyclists discovering the beauties of the Rakovnicko and Křivoklátsko regions.

How to get there and what to discover in the surrounding area?

The swimming pool is located on the western edge of the town of Rakovník on U Koupaliště Street. Access is easy by car, on foot from the centre, or via the cycle path. It is definitely worthwhile to combine a visit to the swimming pool with a tour of the town's historical centre with its iconic gates (Vysoká and Pražská) and the Baroque town hall. In the immediate vicinity, visitors can explore the majestic hrad Křivoklát or go for a walk in the surrounding forests of the Chráněná krajinná oblast Křivoklátsko.

A system of pools and waterfalls in the Central Bohemian Region

Skryjská jezírka, situated in the Central Bohemian Region within the Týřov nature reserve, represent a picturesque system of waterfalls and small pools on the Zbirožský potok stream. This natural monument is known primarily for the Velký Skryjský vodopád, which is approximately 1.5 metres high. The pools were formed by the erosive activity of the stream in hard shales. The locality is an important geological site and a habitat for protected species of plants and animals. The area is part of the extensive Křivoklátsko region.

Access

Skryjská jezírka are located in the deep valley of the Zbirožský potok near the village of Skryje. Access by car is possible as far as the village of Skryje, where a free car park is available. From there, it is necessary to continue on foot along the red-marked tourist trail through the valley, with the walk to the pools and waterfall being approximately 2.5 km long. The nearest railway station, Skryje (line 176), is about 3 km away. The area is accessible all year round, but the best conditions for hiking are during the season from April to October. During the winter, the trail can be slippery.

What is worth seeing

In the vicinity of Skryjská jezírka, visitors may explore the Zřícenina Hradu Týřov, which is located on the opposite slope above the Berounka river. Visitors may also tour the town of Rakovník with its Husovo náměstí and Baroque town hall. Another point of interest is Hrad Křivoklát, an extensive royal castle which serves as a symbol of the region and is one of the most significant medieval castles in the Czech Republic.

An Oasis of Peace and Health Near Prague

Approximately forty kilometres northwest of the capital city, in the picturesque landscape of the Ústecký kraj (Ústí nad Labem Region), lie Lázně Mšené, which have been writing their history since 1796. This traditional spa resort, surrounded by an extensive park and full of magnificent Art Nouveau architecture, represents an ideal sanctuary for anyone seeking perfect harmony between treatment, rehabilitation, and deep relaxation.

Treatment and Relaxation in the Rhythm of Art Nouveau

The local spa has long specialised in expert treatment of the musculoskeletal system and tailored rehabilitation programmes that restore strength and vitality to the body. However, should visitors not require medical care, the resort also offers a varied range of wellness and relaxation stays designed for the complete regeneration of body and soul. Strolls through the historic spa buildings and relaxation in the stylish park overflowing with greenery give the entire stay an unmistakable charm and tranquillity. Complete facilities, including comfortable accommodation, an excellent restaurant, and all spa services under one roof, are naturally provided.

A Place Where Everyone Will Find Something to Their Liking

Lázně Mšené welcome various types of guests with open arms. They primarily serve clients seeking targeted treatment and expert rehabilitation, as well as seniors who appreciate a quiet environment combined with professional health care. Couples and individuals longing for a weekend wellness escape from everyday hustle and bustle, or hiking enthusiasts wishing to enrich a peaceful spa stay with trips to the interesting surroundings, will also find something to their liking.

How to Get There and Where to Go for a Trip

The picturesque village of Mšené-lázně is located in the Ústecký kraj (Ústí nad Labem Region), and the journey here is exceptionally easy. If travelling by car from Prague, visitors head towards Roudnice nad Labem and can park within the resort in approximately forty-five minutes. For those relying on public transport, regular bus lines are available. And whenever visitors yearn for a bit of exploration, the surroundings will not disappoint. The imposing ruins of hrad Hazmburk rise nearby, visitors can explore the nearby zámek Libochovice, or set out to wander through the romantic nature of the České středohoří (Central Bohemian Uplands).

Lázně Mšené are, in short, a place where health, relaxation, and history merge into a perfect whole. Visitors are invited to come here to rest, recharge their energy, and treat themselves to a stay full of well-deserved well-being.

Artificial cave with sandstone sculptures and a romantic relief

Jeskyně Klácelka is a unique complex of artificial caves and sandstone sculptures located in the forested valley of the Liběchovka stream, not far from the village of Liběchov in the Mělník district of the Středočeský kraj. The cave was created in the nineteenth century in the spirit of Romanticism and the National Revival, and it is adorned with unique sandstone sculptures of animal figures that symbolise human characters. It also includes the devilish head of Čertovy hlavy and a spacious cave with benches.

Access

There is no direct road for cars leading to the cave; access is possible only on foot. It is recommended to park at the free car park with limited capacity, which is located on the edge of the village of Liběchov near zámek Liběchov (accessible from road number 9). From there, it is a moderately demanding ascent along a forest path approximately one and a half kilometres long, following the red tourist marker, which leads uphill. The nearest railway station, Liběchov, is less than two kilometres away.

What is worth exploring

Nearby is the extensive CHKO Kokořínsko – Mělnicko with the iconic Hrad Kokořín and Máchovo jezero. Less than twenty kilometres to the south lies the historic town of Mělník with the dominant Mělnický zámek and the confluence of the Labe and Vltava rivers. It is also worth visiting the rock castle Skalní hrad Klemperka and the Muzeum Karla Hynka Máchy in Doksy.

The Orlík Dam was constructed between 1954 and 1961 in the territory of the Písek and Příbram districts, resulting in the flooding of up to 10 municipalities. Its length reaches 68 kilometres, and it forms a part of the Vltava Cascade. It holds the Czech primary position in terms of water volume and is the second-largest dam in the Czech Republic by surface area. At the same time, however, it ranks among the thinnest dams in the world.

The name was derived from the Orlík Castle, which towers on a rock above the reservoir. During the construction of the dam, aside from the aforementioned flooding of certain municipalities, it was also necessary to relocate an entire church. Concurrently, the Orlík Hydroelectric Power Station was built, which was even awarded at the EXPO 58 exhibition in Brussels. The construction of the entire dam was very demanding and therefore claimed several victims among the workers.

After all, the Orlík Dam was marked by sad and tragic events later on as well. Based on investigations, several bodies of Czech businessmen who were supposed to fall into oblivion beneath the water surface were recovered from the reservoir between 1991 and 1993. Even before that, another three victims were found.

However, the Orlík Reservoir also has its better sides. Several campsites with beaches lie along its shores and are frequently used by holidaymakers for swimming or windsurfing. Refreshment stalls and boat rental shops are also available. Visitors may thus choose, for example, Popelíky, Trhovky, Lavičky, Radava, or Charvátská pláň, which is sought after mainly by naturists.

From the harbour in Orlík nad Vltavou, visitors can also reach the nearby Zvíkov Castle via boat transport and thus plan a wonderful trip combining swimming and sightseeing. Orlík is a significant work and inherently belongs to the list of attractive places suitable for recreation. Visitors are simply invited to find suitable accommodation near the Orlík Dam and the holiday may begin.