An 11 km circular walk from Trosky through two scenic Český ráj valleys
- An attractive and relatively unfrequented circular walk, starting and finishing at the iconic Trosky castle.
- The route follows the scenic Podtrosecká and Žehrovky valleys, passing several small lakes (rybníky), and natural springs on the way.
- There is an optional 1.5 km detour to visit the replica of a Celtic fort built on the Semín plateau above Podtrosecká valley.
- Total walk length, without the detour is 11.2 km, with a total of 200m of height gained/lost.
- The path is relatively easy with only one small steep section through the sandstone rocks.
- For a shorter, but less varied, alternative for a circular walk from the Trosky car park, see the 6 km walk to Dolský rybník.
- Refreshments should be available at the start/finish of the walk at Trosky or after 2km at Vidlák.
“Trosky is the most famous and eye-catching landmark in Český ráj. It is visible from almost every corner of the region. But it really needs to be seen close up to appreciate how extraordinary the basalt towers are. After visiting the castle it would be a shame not to explore the peaceful countryside around Trosky. This 11 km walk is a superb way to extend the visit, especially as it takes in the beautiful Podtrosecká valley
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Directions
- Start and finish at the (paid) Trosky castle car park. The castle is worth visiting, either at the beginning or end of the walk, particularly for its spectacular views.
- From the car park, take RED trail (direction Vidlák). Reach the lake and restaurace Vidlák after 2 km
- At Vidlák take the YELLOW/RED trail (direction Věžický rybník) for 3.2 km through the attractive Podtrosecká údolí (marshland, natural springs and rybníky – small lakes) to reach the signpost of U Přibyla (the last 800m section is on the road)
- At U Přibyla turn left onto the RED trail (direction údolí Žehrovky)
- After 800m reach the Podsemínský mlyn (originally built in the 16th century, but now an early 20th century building). Note the photogenic sandstone bridge which featured in the Czech film “Jak dostat tatínka do polepšovny”
- Continue on the RED trail for 1 km to reach the signpost of U Nebákova.
- After a further 100 m on the RED Trail, an unmarked trail turns off to the left through the woods uphill. If wanting to visit the unusual replica Celtic fort, built on the Semín plateau, take this path, which leads past a chata, and after 750 m reaches the fort. Return back the same way to rejoin the RED trail
- Continue on the RED trail for a further 3.4 km, passing the 18th century mill of Nebákov en route, finally reaching the Trosky car park. The final sections of the walk are on the road, but are rewarded by panoramic views of the approaching Trosky
- Refreshments should be available at the hotel and restaurant Trosky, next to the car park, or at the Chata which is located just behind the castle (400m up the hill on the BLUE trail)