From Hluboká to Karl’s Castle (Karlův Hrádek)
Embark on an adventure and explore not only the famous Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle, but also the nearby Karl’s Castle (Karlův Hrádek), a 14th-century fortress ruin.
Total length
10 km
Duration
Walking: 3 hours | Cycling: 1 hour | Motorboat: 1 hour
Terrain
Mostly asphalt, some paved sections (stroller-friendly)
Recommended period for visiting
all year round
Difficulty level
Moderate
Marking
YES (red tourist trail or EV7 cycle route)
How do you get to the start
The starting point is Hluboká nad Vltavou, which is easily accessible by various means of transport, although the nearest train stations are a bit further away. A boat ride is available from the Hluboká Marina or the Sports and Recreation Area in Hluboká.
How to get back
You can return via the same route or continue 4 km to the village of Purkarec, where you’ll find bus and boat transport options (depending on capacity, bicycles can also be taken aboard).
Route description
The castle is easily reachable via the red hiking trail (Purkarec – Hluboká nad Vltavou). Cycling enthusiasts can take the cycling routes 7, 1079, and EV7 and follow the turn-off leading to the castle.
If you get tired along the way or simply want to add variety to your trip, you can take the regular boat service on the Stezka Vltavy, which also transports bicycles.
Interesting places on the route
Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle – A Neo-Gothic Castle Inspired by England’s Windsor Castle
(Also known as Hrádek u Purkarce or Karlshaus) is a castle ruin in the Budějovicko tourist region.
This structure is protected as a cultural monument. Already in the 14th century, Charles IV had it built as a personal retreat, possibly inspired by the comfortable French courts. Karl’s Castle was intended to become the center of a new estate, separated from the nearby Hluboká domain. A small town with a parish was also established near the castle.
A secured climbing route above the water surface of the Vltava River. Sections A and B are located on the left bank, with the entrance to the ferrata clearly marked on the route. There is also a designated space for bicycles directly by the cycling path.
Where Next?
- Baba Lookout – a former fortress above the Vltava River between Hluboká nad Vltavou and Purkarec. Thanks to its location, it offers a stunning view of the river and the landscape. Highly recommended at sunrise.
- Purkarec – once a well-known rafting and log-floating area, featuring the panorama of a Gothic church with a Neo-Romanesque tower and the Rafting Museum.
- Hluboká nad Vltavou Sports and Recreation Area – a multi-activity facility for both children and adults.
Where to Eat?
- Hluboká nad Vltavou – the town offers several restaurants and cafés (link here).
- Purkarec – restaurant.
