Ruins in Czechia

The symbol of Český ráj is the ruin of Hrad Trosky. It is situated on the hill of Trosky near the village of Troskovice in the Semily district and falls under the Liberecký kraj region. The late medieval castle was considered impregnable in its time and stands on a unique volcanic rock formation. Visitors are invited to discover one of the most sought-after castles in the Czech Republic.

From a distance, the structure of the ruin resembles horns set into the ground. The Gothic castle was built on a pair of steep basalt rocks of volcanic origin, which ensured its complete security. An inner castle with living quarters was established between the two peaks, and defensive (as well as residential) towers were built on the two crags. The lower one, with a more substantial appearance, is named Baba and was a hexagonal, two-storey structure. A rectangular, three-storey building was erected on the higher peak; it once housed a chapel, and the tower is named Panna. It is also the highest point of the castle, reaching 514 metres above sea level. There was a well in the first courtyard, and rainwater reservoirs were carved into the rock on the Panna tower. It is assumed that there are cellars and cave spaces with small lakes under the castle, likely belonging to the Sklepy cave system (part of the Apolena rock city).

The first written references to the castle appear from 1396, although archaeologists believe the castle was founded much earlier. It is assumed that the founder was Čeněk z Vartenberka. Subsequently, the castle passed to various owners; during the Thirty Years' War, it was used as a fortress and was captured by the Swedes in 1639. Armies alternated here, and after the last garrison left, the structure began to deteriorate and became a ruin. From 1925, it was owned by the then Czechoslovak Republic. Around that year, the Klub českých turistů began to repair the ruin, and work continued intermittently for several years. Expert repairs have been carried out by the Státní památkový ústav over the last few years.

Tours of the castle are conducted without a guide or specific tour circuits, meaning visitors have free access around the premises. Those arriving by car may park below the castle in the car park and then continue on foot for approximately 250 metres. When travelling by train, visitors may disembark in the village of Borek pod Troskami and follow the blue tourist trail. Alternatively, they may disembark in the village of Ktová and follow the green trail. Both routes are approximately 3.5 kilometres long. Cyclists may utilise cycle paths leading to the castle gate, where lockable racks are available.

The Liberecký kraj region offers many other interesting attractions. Visitors are encouraged not to miss a visit to the Přírodní památka Borecké skály, the Válečné muzeum Újezd pod Troskami, or the largest natural area in the Czech Republic, Šťastná země in Turnov. We invite visitors to view our wide range of accommodation near Hrad Trosky and explore the Liberecký kraj region. Cottages, guesthouses, hotels, and apartments are available.

Romantic ruins above the Dyje River in the South Moravian

Region Hrad Cornštejn is a romantic ruin situated on a high headland above the Dyje River near the confluence with the Želetavka, located in the recreational area of the Vranovská přehrada. The originally small Gothic castle from the first half of the 14th century was built by the Lichtenburkové family and served to strengthen the defence of the nearby Bítov castle and to protect the route from Austria. It remained the property of Czech kings until it was conquered by the Hussites. In the 16th century, it ceased to be maintained and fell into disrepair. Today’s extensive ruins are the result of restoration work carried out in the 1970s, and thanks to its dramatic location, it is one of the most romantic places in southern Moravia.

Access

The ruins are located in the cadastral territory of the municipality of Bítov, approximately eight kilometres northwest of the town of Vranov nad Dyjí. It is possible to reach the parking lot below the castle by car, though its capacity is limited. Alternatively, it is possible to use seasonal boat transport on the Vranovská přehrada, which stops nearby. Cornštejn is accessible to tourists via marked trails, for example, following the yellow trail from the Chatová osada Bítov.

What is worth exploring

In the immediate vicinity, one can find the magnificent hrad Bítov, one of the oldest and most extensive castles in Moravia, known for its unique collection of taxidermy dogs and its reconstructed zoological garden. The surroundings are dominated by the Vranovská přehrada, which offers extensive opportunities for recreation and water sports during the summer season. In nearby Vranov nad Dyjí, it is worth visiting the majestic Baroque zámek, which is considered one of the most significant Baroque structures in the Czech Republic. The area is also criss-crossed by cycling and hiking trails leading through the Národní park Podyjí.

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 ruin where eternity whispers about the power of stone

On a hill above the Nežárka river, near the village of Lovětín, stands the ruin of Střmen castle, which was likely founded in the 13th century. Today, the remnants of towers and ramparts breathe a medieval atmosphere, reminiscent of a time when fortresses protected both the region and its people. The ruins are accessible year-round and attract lovers of history, peace, and countryside views.

Silence, views, and medieval remnants

This place is perfect for lovers of history and tranquillity. Here, one will find picturesquely ruined ramparts, the torso of a tower, and the remains of a palace, the atmosphere of which offers a unique opportunity to perceive the texture of time. From the castle, breathtaking views open up over the Nežárka river valley, the surrounding forests, and vineyards, giving visitors a sense of total immersion in nature. The entire area is very peaceful and directly invites one to pause, enjoy small picnics, or quietly observe the surrounding landscape.

For whom this place is perfect

The location is an ideal destination for all enthusiasts of medieval history and the romance that ruins offer. It will be particularly appreciated by hikers and cyclists who are looking for a rewarding view without the need to undertake long and exhausting climbs. The site itself is accessible via flat ground, although the final ascent to the castle hill requires a slight climb and is classified as moderately demanding. For reasons of monument protection and safety, entry with dogs is not permitted within the site.

How to get here and what awaits you

A forest path leads to the castle from Lovětín. It is also suitable for bicycles. Parking is available near the village. Along the way, one can hear the birds singing and smell the scent of the forest. Once you arrive, a view and tranquillity await you, which will evoke the feeling that time has slowed down.

A stone witness to time in the silence of nature

Střmen castle is a silent story from the past. A ruin that tells its history without words. Come here and let yourself be carried away by the scent of stone, the rustling of the forest, and a view that breathes with medieval power.

Medieval ruins above the rock city

It stands on the summit of Starozámecký vrch, at the northern edge of the Adršpašsko-teplické skály. It was likely founded in the second half of the 13th century, probably during the reign of Přemysl Otakar II. In the 14th century, it was among the royal estates that temporarily fell into the hands of local nobles, such as the Dubá family. During the Hussite Wars, it was occupied by the Hussites, but it was later reclaimed by the Lords of Dubá. In 1447, the castle was purchased by Silesian cities, which had it demolished, and it has not been restored since. It left behind only fragments of foundations, masonry, and rock relics.

What you will discover here

The ruins area offers the opportunity to explore the remains of castle walls, torsos of residential buildings, and visible signs of terrain fortifications that were carved directly into the rock. While the sharp rocky slopes served as natural protection from the north in the past, the southern approach was cleverly secured by a pair of ramparts and ditches. Inside the area, visitors may find traces of former cellars, remains of a well, and clearly legible hints of the original entrance areas.

Who is the castle suitable for

The site is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts, admirers of romantic ruins, and lovers of peaceful viewpoints. The location is suitable for both hikers and cyclists who appreciate outdoor exercise and do not mind short climbs in rugged rocky terrain. The castle can be reached via the red and yellow tourist trails from Dolní Adršpach, with the route measuring approximately 1.5 km.

How to get here and what to experience next

The starting point is Dolní Adršpach, from where a marked path leads all the way to the ruins. Parking is available in the village. The trip can be combined with a visit to the rock city, which creates a perfect contrast—medieval remains surrounded by sandstone towers with a view that boldly rivals medieval cities.

A castle where history and landscape breathe to the same rhythm

Hrad Adršpach is not just a forgotten ruin. It is a witness to the transformations of the region, where even the rocks whisper ancient stories of borders and shifts in power. Visitors are invited to come and discover a landscape where history meets the silence of the rocks.

Romantic Hláska above the Sázava river in the Central Bohemian Region

The Zlenice castle ruins, also popularly known as Hláska, are situated on a rocky promontory above the Sázava river, at the point where the Mnichovický potok flows into it. The castle was likely founded at the beginning of the 14th century and is first mentioned in 1318. Among its most prominent owners was Ondřej IV. z Dubé a ze Zlenic, the Supreme Judge of the Kingdom of Bohemia during the reign of Karel IV. The castle was captured and destroyed, likely during the wars of Jiří z Poděbrad in the 15th century, and has remained abandoned ever since. The most significant preserved part is the remainder of the residential tower, which gave the ruins its nickname, Hláska.

Access

The ruins lie in the picturesque Posázaví region within the cadastral territory of the village of Senohraby. The best access is via the red tourist trail, approximately four kilometres from the Hvězdonice or Čtyřkoly railway stops (both on line 212). An undemanding walk leads to the ruins along a maintained path following the Sázava river. By car, it is possible to park in the village of Senohraby, from where a short walk leads to the ruins.

What is worth seeing

The Posázaví region is known for its beautiful nature and is ideal for hiking and canoeing on the Sázava river. In the nearby village of Hrusice, there is the Památník Josefa Lady, dedicated to the famous Czech painter who became renowned for his illustrations of this region, including Kocour Mikeš and Bubáci. Furthermore, visitors may explore Zámek Štiřín near the village of Kamenice, which serves as a conference centre and features extensive gardens.