A day trip to Orlík Castle in the Vysočina Region

A trip to the ruins of Orlík Castle near Humpolec

Starting point

Parking in the village of Rozkoš. Parking is free.
 

Description of the hike

From the village of Rozkoš, we set off along a dirt road that also follows the Březina Nature Trail. We soon reached some ponds in the forest. We continued along the forest path. Permoník’s Spring, which the trail passes by, was almost dry. We joined a wide forest road and continued along the nature trail. The path first leads slightly uphill, then downhill. We continued alternately along the wide road and the forest trail. Gradually, we turned toward the castle.

Below the castle, we decided to extend the route a bit because the weather was beautiful. So we continued along the nature trail. We passed the remains of gold mining operations and continued toward Humpolec. Before reaching the town, we turned back toward the castle and followed the yellow hiking trail. It leads along a beautiful path between boulders. Finally, we arrived at Orlík Castle. We enjoyed the great view from the castle tower and had a light snack in the courtyard. Then we returned along the wide path to the parking lot in the village of Rozkoš.
 

Difficulty

An easy hike suitable for families with children or for walking with a dog. The entire route follows forest roads or trails. The elevation gain is minimal.
 

Water availability

Refreshments are available at Orlík Castle. They have bottled soft drinks and beer. Permoník’s Spring along the way was practically dry, and it was impossible to draw water from it.
 

Mountain peaks

The route does not pass through any peaks, but the tower of Orlík Castle offers spectacular views. The view takes in a large part of the Vysočina region.
 

Danger

The route is very easy and straightforward. There are no exposed sections; it’s a classic hike through the Czech countryside.
 

Food

There is a snack bar at Orlík Castle where you can buy some treats.
 

Attractions

Orlík Castle was likely built in the second half of the 14th century by the Lords of Dubá. The castle changed hands quite frequently until it was finally abandoned at the end of the 16th century after its owner, Kryštof Karel of Roupov, moved to a chateau. Orlík was gradually dismantled for building materials. At the beginning of the 20th century, the first conservation work began because the castle tower was in danger of collapsing. In 2014, a steel structure was erected on the tower, allowing visitors to climb it, and it has served as an observation tower ever since. There is an admission fee to tour the castle, but no guided tours are available.