From Český Krumlov Castle to Ptačí Hrádek at Dubík

Total length

5 km

Duration

3 - 5 hours

Terrain

Asphalt, dirt/forest road.

Physical demands

Easy pedestrian route, suitable for children.

Marking

Yes

Route description

The walk begins in the Castle Gardens at Český Krumlov Castle. From the Baroque garden, you head towards Ptačí Hrádek and the educational trail at Dubík.

This outing includes two shorter trails. Starting from the castle gardens, you can first head west towards Ptačí Hrádek, following the green hiking trail. Expect a slight ascent and approximately half an hour to reach your destination. Along the way to Ptačí Hrádek, you may see a historical water reservoir, which in earlier times supplied water from the Polečnice River for use in the castle gardens. Upon return, you can enjoy a moment of relaxation strolling through the castle gardens before heading in the opposite direction into the forests towards Dubík. Following the red hiking trail, you will reach the Dubík educational trail in about thirty minutes, offering entertainment for half a day. This two-kilometer-long trail is filled with interactive elements and is suitable for both children and adults.

Interesting places on the route

Baroque Castle Garden - The Baroque garden from the second half of the 17th century forms the largest part of the complex of the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov. After passing through all the castle courtyards, you can reach it either by the left path up to the main garden gate or the right path leading to the Castle Riding Hall. The Rococo-style Neptune Fountain in the center of the castle garden was constructed during extensive renovations after 1750. The garden also includes the Bellarie summerhouse from the late 17th century, creating a backdrop for summer performances at the revolving stage, a music pavilion, and a square castle pond.

Revolving Theatre - The first improvised revolving stage for 60 spectators was installed in the castle park of Český Krumlov Castle in 1958. Initially powered by human force, it has been operated by an electric motor since 1960. Currently, the revolving auditorium has a capacity of 644 spectators and annually offers exceptional experiences from June to September, such as plays, musicals, or ballets.

Historical Reservoir - The historical water reservoir is located approximately halfway between the castle garden and Ptačí Hrádek (along the green trail). It was established to pump water from the Polečnice River to supply the fountains and other water features in the castle garden.

Ptačí Hrádek Memorial - The unfinished memorial commemorating the victory of the allied armies of Russia, Austria, and Prussia over Napoleon Bonaparte in the Battle of Leipzig in 1813 is located near the castle garden. It is privately owned and not accessible to the public, but you can admire its exteriors and views from the nearby viewpoint of the same name.

Dubík Nature Trail - Children will particularly enjoy the Dubík nature trail, as it engages them in exploring the surrounding world using all their senses and overcoming various challenges. The trail, centered around Dubík pond, measures two kilometers and features thirty-five playful interactive elements focusing on natural science and forest themes. It is divided into three parts: the first introduces visitors to the water cycle in nature, waste decomposition, and guides them through a food labyrinth. The other two sections focus on birdlife, with the bird part of the trail being enhanced by a mobile app that allows visitors to listen to the calls of twenty bird species.