*Walks around the grand castle/chateau at Rožmberk nad Vltavou: 1 km to 6 km*

• Rožmberk castle stands proudly on a rocky spur overlooking a horseshoe bend in the river Vltava. It is one of south Bohemia’s most spectacular castles and was the original seat of the Rožmberk noble family in the 13th century. Throughout the Middle Ages the Rožmberks were the most powerful family in south Bohemia.
• The castle today is state owned and can be toured between April and October. It offers a unique blend of original Gothic and Renaissance architecture and was refurbished in the 19th century in a neo-Gothic style by the Bucquoys, a French/Bohemian noble family who acquired the estate after the 17th century Battle of White Mountain.
• The attractive village of Rožmberk nad Vltavou sits below the castle and is a good base for exploring the far south of Bohemia. One attraction which should not be missed is the local brewery (map point 7) which has an excellent restaurant (and also has accommodation).
• Rožmberk nad Vltavou is around 20 km south of the UNESCO listed Český Krumlov. It is possible to walk one-way between these two famous locations (following a section of the Via Czechia long distance route, and then catching the bus back). However, most people will probably drive between these two towns – the road follows directly beside the Vltava river for much of the way and arguably offers better views than than the Via Czechia trail!)
• Once in Rožmberk nad Vltavou, the walk up to the castle from the main square (where the bus stops and where there are several paid parking spots) is around 400m. If wanting a short walk in the area, which offers different views and perspectives of the castle, consider the short circular route shown in the map below. This is just over 6 km long, with just under 200m of height to ascend/descend on easy trails. The route passes an 18th century pilgrimage trail (Křížová cesta) which is slowly being renovated.
• In addition to the brewery restaurant, there are a few other refreshment options in the town , including the pleasant Lar Cafe on the main square.

Note: click ‘Show on Mapy.com’  to go to a full screen version of the route directly on the mapy.com site. This can be used for on line navigation, saved or exported as a GPX file.

Directions

• Starting in the town square, take the YELLOW hiking trail across the bridge and up the hill to reach the castle
• From there, continue on the YELLOW trail back down hill, crossing back over the Vltava
• After a short section along the road, continue on the YELLOW trail uphill on the Křížová cesta to reached the Baroque chapel, next to the hotel
• Continue on the YELLOW trail for 1.5 km to reach the village of Přízeř. At the small pond, leave the YELLOW trail and turn left onto the road
• After 300m turn left at the T junction and after 100m join the RED trail. Continue on the RED trail (which follows the road) for 2.3 km to reach Rožmberk nad Vltavou village center